Franklin, Mink, and McCoy Islands

Hey Group,

I was sorting through maps and found one I have for the Franklin, Mink, and McCoy islands. I think this would be an excellent Sea Kayak multiday trip and it has start points in Snug Harbor (just across from Franklin Island). There is a Kayak rental shop in Nobel which is on the way, as well Sojourn in Barrie has excellent rental rates and if you pick up in the afternoon of your departure day that day is free unlike many other locations. I feel it would be best to meet up in Nobel at the White Squall Paddling Centre to ensure everyone has the proper equipment for sea kayaking plus we can do a quick tutorial in kayaking at Snug Harbor for those less experienced in kayaking. I also STRONGLY recommend everyone buddy's up with a kayaking partner and splits on the cost of a tandem sea kayak to ensure safety out on the water, I'll also want to ensure everyone attending has some knowledge of orientation (map nd compss reading) as the Thirty Thousand Islands don't have the same kind of landmarks used to navigate as hiking does. This area is not an actual provincial park, however, it is located in close proximity to two wildlife sanctuaries, including the Limestone Islands. For those unfamiliar with the location it is just west of Parry Sound and Kilbear PP could even be used as a start point as many people visiting the park day trip out to the islands, depending on skill. As with costs there wouldn't be any park fee's, however, Kayak rentals will probably be best split between two people in a tandem (most economical) or you can solo rental if you don't own. Also I would assume parking fee's in Snug Harbour apply, as well the cost of fuel there and meals on the way go without saying. This link provides a general skill assessment, and a skeleton itinerary which could be modified to suit the groups tastes. http://kayakgeorgianb... (http://kayakgeorgianbay.wetpaint.com/page/Mink+%26+McCoy+Islands)

(Marv here adding to Robert's initial concept).

Summary:

Drive north Friday after work to a campground near Parry Sound. Pickup kayaks Saturday in Nobel. Proceed to Snug Harbor. Paddle Saturday, Sunday, Monday covering the Mink, McCoy, and Franklin Islands. Return Monday, the holiday.

When:

(optional) Leave Tim Hortons, Hwy 7, on the west end of Guelph at 6 pm Friday. The corner of Woodlawn West and Imperial to be precise. Carpool, caravan, to Parry Sound.

(optional) Camp at Oastler Lake Provincial Park Friday night.

(mandatory) Saturday, 9 AM, meet at White Squall Paddle Center, 53 Carling Bay Rd, Nobel. Proceed with gear to Snug Harbor. Launch by 11 AM and paddle via west side of Franklin Island to base camp on southern Big McCoy Island. Take a vote as to what happens next, Sunday, Monday.

Return Monday to Snug Harbor, mid afternoon.

Cost:

3 day kayak rental + Friday campsite + gas.

Sample costs,

$90 (single kayak) + $8 (campsite) + $40 (gas) = $138 before tax.

$61.50 (tandem kayak) + $8 + $40 = $109.50 before tax.

Saturday to Monday we are on crown land where no camping fees apply. There is free parking at Snug Harbor if we get there on time. Otherwise $5/day at the marina. Wildcard, 'additional car' parking at Oastler Lake.

Rides:

Marv, Assistant Organizer, will co-ordinate.

Kayak Rentals:

White Squall Paddle Center, 705-342-5324 in Nobel. Please use these guys first if possible, they are 20 minutes from our launch. Rental includes foam pads and straps to mount kayaks on car roofs.

Swift Canoes, 705-538-0881, in Wabasheune. Wabasheune is on the way up. The problem is getting there before they close Friday, July 29, 7 pm. Picking up Saturday, 9 am, delays the group since it is another 1 1/2 hours to Snug Harbour.

Adventure Guide, in Waterloo. As of July 19 they have no more kayaks for this weekend.

Regardless of where you get your boat please ensure you have all the Coast Guard mandated safety equipment, tow rope, bail bucket, whistle, waterproof flashlight, PDF (life jacket). You will also want a kayak skirt to keep water out of the cockpit in rough weather, the whole point of not using canoes.

Photos:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/65337815@N02/sets/7215762709... (http://www.flickr.com/photos/65337815@N02/sets/72157627095787683/)