We traversed the length of the Au Sable River again from Grayling to Oscoda but we were well behind the racing pace of 14 hours. We took 8 days and did it in weekend installments. I have done the entire length in one week on previous trips but I can see the entire river more often by breaking it up.
We started in February for the 32nd Annual Au Sable River Overnight. Here is that weekend’s camp:
We picked up the river again in April from where we left off in February, but it didn’t seem like the weather had gotten any warmer……
Our May installment gave us some kinder temperatures with the snow finally leaving and the black flies arriving (sigh).
June had all of the trees leafed out and the mosquitoes replaced the black flies. We camped on the Summer Solstice with a full moon that night. Wonderful!
Since we finished in June we technically beat the Marathon racers coming in July.
There is yet another chance to see the whole AuSable; perhaps taking in some of its night time splendor.
The Labor Day weekend event is inspired by the Kruger Kult: see the site
https://sites.google.com/site/vkmchallenge/ausable
In 2012 there was a mighty full moon on Friday night and lots of rock
N roll on Cooke and Foot Ponds on Saturday afternoon.
George
QUOTED FROM THAT SITE:
AuSable River Run 2013
August 30 – September 2
Grayling to Oscoda
Paddle solo or tandem.
Expedition Style – self supported at all times.
Participants are assumed masters of their ship, with safe piloting skills and efficient wilderness traveling technique.
Start at the Old AuSable Fly Shop in downtown Grayling on August 30 at 4pm.
Paddle and portage down the AuSable River 116 miles and 561 vertical feet. Portage over 6 hydro-electric dams and across 6 open water dam impoundments to the town of Oscoda.
Finish at the AuSable Inn in Oscoda by noon on September 2.