Saturday, August 17, 2013

Silver River: Ray Wayside to Springhead and back.

Silver River: Ray Wayside to Springhead and back.


Silver Springs has been famous since 1878 for its crystal clear water and glass bottomed boats. The Silver River was where the first glass-bottomed boats where used. And they are still in use today, to see the array of aquatic life below the water's surface. The Silver is known for its clear, deep water, aquatic life and the wild Rhesus monkeys living among the banks on the river. The spring waters have been measured at 550 million gallons of clear cool water flowing per day. Johnny Weismuller filmed some of his Tarzan movies here. The glass bottomed boat operators point out the site, as well as the petrified trees and statues on the bottom of the river.
We will launch from Ray Wayside Park and paddle upstream approx. 5 miles to Silver Springs attraction and spring head; turn around and enjoy a leisurely 5 mile paddle downstream back to Ray Wayside. There are many places to get out; stretch our legs, take a dip and cool off. Be on the lookout below for the sunken boat and statues near the attraction; always a cool sight to behold.
This is a beautiful river, with deep jungle on each side, forests of grass beds waving underwater, and an interesting tourist attraction at the end.
There is a $5.00 launch/parking fee, self pay envelopes or attendant upon entering Wayside Park.
Bring your lunch and plenty to drink.
PFD/WHISTLE is the law and is always advised to be worn.
This trip is not advised for anyone not comfortable with paddling 5 miles upstream, though by paddling close to the bank upstream, it's considerably easier.
No shuttle required.
Launch is located East of Ocala, on SR40, under very tall Ocklawaha Bridge.(Ocala Yacht Club)
Directions/google map to Rays Wayside(Ocala Yacht Club)
GPS CORDS: N29.215519     W-81.991589
*PLEASE RSVP ONLY IF ATTENDING/RSVP-NOT ATTENDING IS NOT REQUIRED.
As there are never any meetup dues/fees or money charged by organizers/hosts on trips with Peter b and/or John B, there is no assumption of risk or liability by said hosts. Attendance at any event with said hosts, or any function is your agreement that it is at your own risk, and that you have been duly informed; any guests or others with you; that it is at their own risk. We will assume no responsibility for any untoward occurences.
As with all of our paddles, we are not guides and we are not instructors. We are a group of kayaking enthusiasts out for a good time. We help each other, learn from each and enjoy the privilege of being. By participating in any of our paddles you assume all risks and responsibilities for your personal health and safety and for your equipment. It is important for everyone that each participant be prepared for the trip. Please use your discretion and best judgment when joining a trip. Be sure you are up to the paddle; physically, mentally and that your equipment is appropriate for the intended trip. Know and respect your limits. Be safe, act responsible and you will certainly enjoy another fantastic paddle.
PADDLE ON!  Peter b & John B

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