After a four-week hiatus, a gorgeous day weather and wind-wise. Lower water levels meant lots more mudflats and shoals to navigate, and strong current in places where the river has narrowed. But there were many Great Blue Herons as a result, along with some Canada Geese, Ravens, and Turkey Vultures.

With the recent monsoon rains, the river was carrying lots of reddish silt, which made for a muddy luncheon landing. But there were more wildflowers, and as always, the spaciousness, solitude, and stillness were deeply inspiring.