Secrets of the Wacissa

Join CPI President Ryan Means exploring the wild upper 10 miles of the Wacissa River. This will be an unforgettable trip from the Wacissa Head Springs all the way down to Goose Pasture boat launch. Ryan has extensive scientific knowledge of and experience with the entire Wacissa River, and he is eager to share his natural history knowledge of the area with you.

This is not the same trip on the Wacissa that we typically offer. Typically we do the lower 5 miles, Slave Canal section. But this time we wish to offer an all inclusive adventure to experience the upper 10 miles of the Wacissa. This will be a lovely treat. Unless we have a hurricane, the water likely will be gin clear.

This trip would be fantastic compliment for those who have done the Slave Canal with us, but haven't done the upper section. Also of note, although this paddling experience is twice as long as the Slave Canal Section, it is much easier on the body. This one does not require us to exit our craft and shove boats over logs. It's just a nice clean paddle through paradise.

The Wacissa River is one of the world’s most pristine first magnitude spring ecosystems, and is a world-class aquatic natural realm. Experience towering forests of ancient cypress, mixed hardwood forests once browsed by mastodons, and myriad aquatic plants. We will experience the following things close-up: alligators of all size ranges, terrific turtles, and wiggling water snakes! We also will see huge gar, schools of mullet, and brilliant birds, such as herons, egrets, osprey, and anhinga. Hopefully, we’ll lay eyes on a limpkin.

You will experience lovely braided channels that few people have ever seen. The whole time, we’ll be embedded within one of our region’s remotest locations. Snorkeling is optional and encouraged. Bring your mask, snorkel, and any wet suit, if you have one. We can make a game-time decision on getting in the water based on the day’s water and air temperatures. If we snorkel, we will observe fossil remains of ancient animals and discuss their natural history in the region.

Trip is limited to 8 people. Price includes guide, shuttle service, canoe and/or kayak and safety gear, snacks, extra water, and complimentary beverages! We have a mixture of canoes and kayaks.

We will meet at 8:30 am at the Goose Pasture Boat Launch. From there, we pile into our van and shuttle ourselves to the head springs where we begin our journey back down to where our cars are parked.

Cancellation Policy: If we have to cancel/postpone the trip, we will put you on a wait list for a free trip later. We also ask that you consider your payment as a donation to conservation. But of course we can refund your payment, as well. If YOU have to cancel on us or don't show up, your payment will become a donation.

All proceeds go towards our efforts to preserve the biodiversity of the Coastal Plain. THANK YOU!

Please contact Ryan with any questions.

Text is preferred. Tell me your name and relate your question to this trip. 850-544-5661

ryan@coastalplains.org