In 2016 four Rio Grande Uncommon Seminars Crews experienced terrific journeys down the Rio Grande’s Lower Canyons. The weather was absolutely spectacular. Cobalt blue skies warm days cool (a few cold) nights. Great campfires. stargazing the zodiacal cloud for some groups, a brilliant full moon for another. A gamut of wildlife, including some of the best views ever of desert bighorn sheep, desert mule deer, javelinas, wild burros and of course the corriente. Some good birds including a Black Hawk and an amazing kettle of over 90 Turkey Vultures. The water was low all season which was contrary to the El Nino forecast, but we always had enough water. The low water did provide some new lining opportunities. We lined the big drop at Hot Springs rapids for the first time. I think many of the paddlers learned how fun technical lining can be and that opened a new dimension in their paddling world. A couple boats also ran San Francisco Rapid for the first time. Several members of crews hiked to the top of El Burro for a singular view of the river and canyon walls. There was swimming, hot tubbing, slot canyon hiking, Farkle, storytelling, desert flowers, historical and ancient artifacts — all of which contributed to extraordinary expeditions. My heartfelt congratulations to all the crews for their positive, cooperative and joyous efforts. That was the real key to the success of 2016.
Dates are set for 2017 Expeditions:
February 6-13
February 17-24
February 28-March 7
Crew size is limited to seven participants. I expect all three expeditions to fill this year.
Rob Kesselring
rob@robkesselring.com
Box 1313
Lakeville, MN 55044
952.432.8884
