Paddles on the Icy Huron!

All photos on the Huron River by Jonathan Schechter
Oakland County, Michigan
 January 14, 2012

 THESE PHOTOS ARE A SUPPLEMENT TO THE "OAKLAND OUTDOORS" FEATURE
STORY IN THE SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, EDITION OF THE OAKLAND PRESS.
 WWW.THEOAKLANDPRESS.COM

The section of the Huron River near the town of Milford between Kensington Metropark
and the Proud Lake State Recreation Area is a busy place during summer
 months. In winter, it's a river of solitude, incredible beauty and some dangers.
The photo above has captured a silent killer -- not the woman in the kayak.
The tree in the river (above)  is a 'strainer'.  During times of fast water a capsized
kayaker could be held against the limbs by the current and drown. 
The river water strains though, the victim is trapped.
Water is powerful and nature can be unforgiving.
But with a bit of caution and a PFD (life jacket) the Huron is a sweet
temptress for this nature writer with a flare for 4-season adventure.

A great way to start a winter day!

The river is a winter highway for more than paddling humans!
Look closely on the right bank: See something up ahead on shore?

A trio of mute swans rested along  shore and wached our  silent passage.

Nothing like downy feathers for a face wipe or head rest.

Winter: A time to hike, cross country ski, snowshoe and kayak!

And this one is me, with a zip lock bag around my neck to protect my camera from splashes.

"Wolf Pack" and "Tri-City Kayakers" at our half way point on the Huron.
And we all came home! (this photo courtesy of Scott Reid)