We were able to go for a paddle on the James with some extremely interesting company...
We went in at Dutch Gap next to Henricus Historical Park and apparently this area is known for attracting congregations of Black Vultures!
I'd never been so close to ginormous birds in my life! If they'd wanted...they could have easily picked us off the water. It was extremely unnerving having to paddle right next to such a large group of them. There had to be at least 75 vultures. They just watched us as we paddled by....a few of them in the air above our heads boasting their 5 foot wingspans...
We paddled upriver with the winds to our backs which made the few miles upriver quite leisurely. We stopped at a docking area for a few minutes to check the time, get some water and sit and enjoy the sun for a few moments before heading back...
The paddle back to Dutch Gap boat landing was a bit difficult with the wind working against us. We stuck close to the shoreline to avoid the wind full-on, which gave us great views of the last of the fall leaves...
It was a wonderful paddle and a fantastic way to celebrate my husbands birthday.
Overall this is a great area for any stand up paddler, though I'd be sure to check the wind conditions before getting on the water as the river opens up so wide in certain areas it was pretty impossible to avoid hitting it head-on.
Dutch Gap boat landing is also a very easy place to find and easy access to the water.
You can find more info here if interested: http://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WM5T93_Dutch_Gap_James_River_Nr_Richmond_VA
