Kayaking Jarvis Lake
So, today, I slayed a personal demon.
I have had two kayaks for a long time – as in years – but haven’t been out in almost three years due to doubt.
Doubt is stupid.
I lost confidence after hurting my back. I had myself convinced I couldn’t do it anymore without hurting. Better to stay at home.
But, after renting a kayak while on vacation and realizing that I could paddle on the ocean I decided I was being dumb.
I pulled them out from their resting place and spent the week getting them cleaned out.
Holy moly what a mess they were. They actually had algae growing in them they had been sitting so long.
I had no idea if they were still sea-worthy, however, they had been stored properly and were well sheltered so I had high hopes.
This morning Allison and I took them to Jarvis Lake in Switzer Park and gave them a last rinse and tested their water-worthiness.
I am thrilled to report they work just fine and I still remember how to kayak.
For our first outing we made our way up the east arm of Jarvis Lake all the way to Kelly’s Bathtub.
![]() |
Almost 6.5kms on our first trip out! |
We weren’t confident enough to bring our cameras out in the boat, but I will next time.
In fact, next time is going to include bringing lunch, maybe even packing a day-pack and hiking off the side of a lake somewhere.
So many more adventures to come!