Getting on the Water: Kayak

For years, I have had an irrational envy of people who have kayaks on the top of their cars--especially when I've been at Ohiopyle.  There are many, many kayaks in evidence in Maine.  I've wanted to see whether I would prefer kayaking or canoeing--given the state of my knees.  L.L. Bean has a kayak discovery class in which you get instruction and spend over an hour on the water--all for $20!!!  I went on the trip.  It was fun.  We paddled out past a blue heron and an osprey--out into Casco Bay.  The wind shifted, so our return trip took longer and was significantly harder.  I was in an open cockpit canoe, so my knees were fine.  Alas, my back was pretty uncomfortable by the time I was done.  Also, kayaking is different than hiking in this way--the waves actually work against you.  In hiking, the trail does not push back.

I didn't get any pictures while on the water, but these are some L.L. Bean kayaks--as well as a family kayaking in Boothbay Harbor later in the day.