This was a 92 mile trip from sunup to after sundown and one of our favorite days on the water. We left with spectacular views along the way. GoosePond to Joe Wheeler is probably one of the prettiest parts of the Loop in Laura's opinion.
Painted Rock on a cloudy day is breathtaking.
Laura was having so much fun she wouldn't let Ted drive much of the day. Since it was a 12 hour endeavor, he appreciated the rest.
We called the Decatur Railway Bridge and asked for a lift so we could get under the 10ft bridge. Right as we arrived the bridge lifted and we went through. We learned the correct name after calling the wrong one on the first time through.
We realized we were scheduled to arrive at 5:15, and sunset was 4:45pm.
Ted was out at watch as we started to arrive. We still had to get into the marina, but luckily we had our track (breadcrumbs) from when we were there last.
Right as it became dark, we saw our first tug of the day lit up on the horizon.
It was pitch black when we arrived with little moonlight. Our friends all brought out their flashlights to help us see where to dock - and they sang us this clever song....
Twinkle twinkle Sparkling Star
Come and dock where we are
Loopers, Loopers on the dock
With our flashlights in the dark
Twinkle twinkle Sparkling Star
Come and dock where we are
We are so grateful for our Looper friends!
We needed to arrive with our friends so we could caravan through the tricky Wilson and Wheeler locks. The Wilson lock had been damaged and was only letting through a limited number of pleasure crafts a day. We prepared to leave the next morning with seven boats in two flotillas: Giraffe Herd and the Pivot Parade. We were in the Pivot Parade.
Joe Wheeler State Park, Return Visit
Pros: Best friends at the Docks
Cons: Long way to walk
Rating: 5 Stars
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