Connecticut Water Trails Association

 

Table Of Contents

Connecticut Water Trails

Basic Concepts

Paddling Resources

Canoeing

Canoe Camping

Kayaking Basics

Planning A Paddling Trip
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Connecticut Water Trails Program

Paddling Basics

Planning A Paddling Trip

 

General Planning: The Float Plan

 

Once you've chosen and finalized your paddling route, write down a detailed float plan / agenda give copies to the participants and leave it with a friend, a ranger, the lake patrol, or the Coast Guard (whomever is most appropriate).

 

The Float Plan

 

This written plan should include:

  • Your expected time of departure

  • Your expected route of travel

  • Your expected and alternate stopping points along the way

  • How many participants will be on the trip

    • Attach a roster with names and contact information

  • Your final destination

  • Parking Lot Location

  • Your expected arrival time at the take-out

  • Cell phone number or VHF radio channel for contacting you on

 

Copies of this Float Plan should be given out at your Pre-Trip Meeting along with a copy of the map of the area you will be in. A copy should also be given to someone not going on the trip who could contact the authorities if you do not return on time.

 

After The Trip:

 

  • Make plans to contact the person holding your float plan as soon as your trip is finished.

  • Also arrange for that person to contact the appropriate authorities if they do not hear from you within a certain time frame.

 

Sample Float Plan Form

 

 

 


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