2/27/2008
A long day through the Piedmont
Today was the longest day of paddling on the trip. I paddled from early morning to early evening getting me into Lake Murray. I passed a number of dams and coal fired power plants. I always am amazed at the process of energy. The energy of water and coal turning turbines and making our world work. As I paddle it is also interesting to think about the days before electricity and the modern world. Realizing these same waterways were used for trading deer skins, one of the first sources of wealth for the colonies. 
We launched early in the morning from the Greenwood Dam, paddled through the Saluda for over 35 miles. There were a few class 1 rapids, but overall it was pretty mellow, although I was freezing cold in the 20 degree temperatures. However, there wasn’t an icy cold wind and the sun warmed things up a bit. I saw several red tail hawks, great blue herons and kingfishers as well as a bunch of wood ducks. In this area of the Saluda, there is mostly private property that is still wild. I’m getting pretty tired after the 90 miles I’ve come so far. I got to my destination at 2 o’clock, did some yoga and relaxed while waiting on the ground crew. At an evening campfire with friends, Mr. Hodge Harmon came by to visit. He is a conservationist who bought property from SCE&G, then left it for campers, Boy Scouts and wildlife to use.
Very glad to have arrived at Lake Murray and to take a hot shower!
-Ian