Putting in at the Owens bridge (FH 22) east of Sumatra. Wooden bridge burned down when fishermen, on a cold day, decided to build themselves a fire near or on the bridge and had more heat than they had bargained for. Photo by Branson Carlton.

Starting out on a day which promised neither sun nor rain. Photo by Branson Carlton.

Brush was expected, of course. Photo by M. Feaver.

The river widened, than narrowed, then narrowed even more through cypress trunks. Photo by M. Feaver.

This area will dry out as soon as the deciduous trees begin to green. The New River in this section is navigable only a few months of the year. Photo by Branson Carlton.

About a half a mile of gnarled cypress lies ahead of us, and faster water for that distance. Photo by Branson Carlton.

There is some impediment ahead and we’re waiting for the lead paddler to check it out.

Limbo logs not uncommon — this will eventually fall into the river and create a real obstacle. Photo by Branson Carlton.

All boats accounted for. We had planned to camp at campsite 7, but it was already occupied, so we paddled downstream for 2.5 miles and got campsite 6. Photo by Branson Carlton.

Early enough to relax, enjoy a cuppa’ and conversation. Photo by Branson Carlton.

Second day, spider lilies in bloom between camp site 6 and Pope’s Place. Photo by Branson Carlton.

Rest stop at Gully Branch where there is are vault toilets. Photo by Branson Carlton.

Pope’s Place — our take-out. Further downstream is Trout Creek and Crooked River and Carrabelle River. Photo by M. Feaver.