My Outdoor Adventure

Snowflakes fluttered down as the Krumm family launched their canoes into the Current River.

Ice skimmed the river’s edges, and icebergs of snow swirled in eddies. Despite the chilly weather, the Krumms were toasty. Under their life jackets, they wore layers of fleece, heavy coats and coveralls. They liked canoeing in winter. It was pretty, and they had the river all to themselves. They saw mink and beavers. A bald eagle soared overhead.

The next day, Amber and her dad swamped their canoe. Amber’s life jacket kept her afloat, but the icy water took her breath away. Both she and her dad scrambled quickly to shore to change into dry clothes. It didn’t take long until they were warm again.

That evening, the Krumms camped on a gravel bar. The kids gathered lots of wood and helped build a warm, roaring fire. They made lasagna in a Dutch oven and toasted marshmallows for s’mores. Even with sleeping pads, the ground under their tents was bumpy and uncomfortable. But, worn out from a fun day of paddling, the kids slept like rocks.

Despite the dunking, the kids agreed it had been a spectacular adventure. Taking a winter float trip has been a fun family tradition for the Krumms ever since.

For winter camping tips, paddle over to www.xplormo.org/node/10545.