8/18 Tombolo Camp to Barrier Islands day trip
Our tent was warmed by rays of light cutting through the forest. I hopped out of my sleeping bag and scuttled out of the tent to confirm that the rain had stopped. The early morning conditions suggested a great day on the water.
Coffee warmed our cups as we enjoyed breakfast and prepared for a day trip to explore around the islands. Several of us swapped boats and began the micro adjustments of seats, foot pedals, and gear.
Gentle swell lifted our boats and washed up on rocks as we paddled west towards the open water beyond Douglass Island. We admired the fractured patterns of blue that danced on the surface between the reflection of clouds.
The islands became small and rough until what looked like large rocks with kelp feet remained. The sound of the water is impressive. As we paddled the water hit the rocks at a force strong enough to climb up a few feet before falling down the face until it rejoined the sea.
After a relaxing nap-lunch-nap break, we continued on to the closest of the Barrier Islands. The Barriers are scattered in three bands separated by small passages of water. Entering the islands provided a protected space where sandhill cranes, loons, cormorants, and other wildlife gathered.
We played with navigation as we moved towards Middle Island to fill water and search for toads. The tide moved slowly higher and we turned our boats to return to camp. We had hoped to explore the full Barrier Island chain series, but our curiosity earlier in the day kept us from completing the full loop. We would simply have to return on another trip to see the islands beyond Middle.
Kim and I cut up some carrots and Aaron heated up a pot of chili. We watched the sun set over the horizon before calling it a day.