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Tongass National Forest |
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Tongass Home » Recreation » Boating BoatingBe aware and prepared
Boating "Rules of the Road" are important anywhere. Conditions in some high-traffic areas, such as the Stikine and Situk Rivers, have prompted frequent users to develop etiquette guidelines for the safety and boating pleasure of all. Kayaking and CanoeingThe inland waterways offer protection from the sea swell and unsurpassed beauty of the surrounding land forms. Tides, currents, and weather can offer challenges to meet anyone's desire and skill level. A number of opportunities have been mapped for those who want to see the Tongass from sea level. Most types of kayaks will work well in this area. However, if you intend to fly into a remote location, you will need a folding craft. Weather Rain Wind Temperatures TidesKeep your tide book handy and use it when planning your trip. The tides in Southeast Alaska range from -4 to +20 feet. This can make some areas inaccessible at low tide and also create whirlpools and rapids where narrow passages exist between two larger bodies of water. Tide books are available through most local businesses. Bears and other animals Some people carry firearms when in bear country. Best are:
Better than nothing:
Also effective:
Whales and sea lions have occasionally presented a hazard to kayakers. The best policy is simply to admire them from a distance. If you find yourself unexpectedly among them, be careful not to excite or agitate them. SuppliesThink "remote and self-reliant" as you prepare for you trip. Pay careful attention to your supplies Carry a radio. A hand-held VHF model is preferable. Use it to contact the marine operator, the Coast Guard or commercial fishing vessels. They monitor channel 16. The weather channel carries a marine weather forecast. Cell phone coverage is very spotty here. Plan for rain. Bring along good rain gear. Pack in plastic or waterproof bags. Bring plenty of warm clothing to protect against hypothermic conditions. Wool or synthetics such as pile are best as they continue to keep you warm even wet. Synthetically filled sleeping bags are also a wise choice. Down bags become virtually useless when wet. Treat any water you drink. The purity of many water sources is dubious. Effective methods include bringing water to a rolling boil for at least 3 full minutes, using commercially available iodine treatments such as "Potable Aqua" or investing in a hand held filter. MapsUSGS Quadrangle maps at a 1:250,000 scale are a good resource. Many of the U.S.G.S. maps can be purchased at sporting goods and outdoor equipment stores; check at your local stores. Marine charts may also be helpful; they show navigational aids, water depths, and rocks and other hazards in the water. Marine charts are available at many hardware stores. Since your maps will undoubtedly be exposed to the elements, it would be prudent to waterproof them in some way, such as with clear contact paper. Cabins |
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USDA Forest Service - Tongass National Forest |