Steilacoom to Sequalitchew Creek

Trip

Sea Kayaking Student Paddle - Ketron Island Circumnavigation

Circumnavigate the "Forbidden Island". We will launch from Sunset Beach, head along the shore to just past Solo Point, then paddle along the west side of the privately owned island of Ketron Island. It is rumored that residents have guns to keep paddlers from touching foot on their island.

  • Sea Kayak II+
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 7.5 nm
  • Maximum Wind: 10 kts
  • Maximum Waves: 1 ft
  • Maximum Currents: 0.5 kts
  • Pace: 2.5nmh

We will launch from the Sunnyside Beach and head south along the shoreline. We will carefully go around the ferry boats and head past Saltar's Point on our way to our first break at Solo Point (possibly no public restrooms). After our break, we paddle to the quarry's wharf and then head north around the west side of Ketron Island (making sure that we do not get too close). At the northern tip, we head to Saltar's Point for a bio-break (public restrooms). Then it is time to head around the ferry boats and back to our launch beach. It is possible that we will head around Ketron Island in a counter-clock wise direction if it is advantageous. There is essentially no current that is hampering our travel so wind will be the big issue. If there is much of a wind, we will stay along the shoreline and extend our trip to make sure that we get in the required distance of 7nm.

A drysuit is required along with a hard shell kayak greater than 14 feet. Bring extra clothes, your lunch and the ten essentials. Perimeter lines are required so that we can practice rescues. Dress warmly.

Please note that you need to get leaders permission to sign up for this paddle.

We will launch from Sunnyside Beach parking lot, Chambers Creek Rd W, Steilacoom, WA 98388, coordinates: 47.177179, -122.589935. There is a walkway to the north of the parking lot that crosses the railway tracks on the way to the launch beach. Having wheels would help a little but they are not necessary. There is a $10 charge for using their parking lot. Carpool if possible. There is a public restroom at the park (north of the parking area).

Please be  ready to paddle just after the shore talk which is at 9:30AM. Arrive at least by 8:30AM (earlier if you are new to getting ready to go). Remember that not only are you getting yourself ready, you are helping others get their boats off of their cars and onto the beach.

Route/Place

Steilacoom to Sequalitchew Creek


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Required Equipment

Required Equipment

These three essentials plus The Ten Essentials are required on all sea kayaking trips.  All but the whistle and clothing should be provided with any kayak rental.

  1. U.S. Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
  2. Paddle
  3. Appropriate clothing for the conditions encountered seasonally
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