Definitely autumn in the high country. Quite chilly at the boat ramp, and a strong north headwind. But we set out anyway, and after awhile the wind abated some.

Much less water though, and navigating through the above and below water mudflats was challenging, as was the current in some places. But we persevered, and made it upstream some 6 miles or so to Cochiti Canyon.

It was fairly muddy, though not as bad as last week. Seeing evidence of flash flooding in the canyon was interesting, as were the rock cliffs and wildflowers.

A huge treat was paddling though a flock of White-throated Swifts. Watching their aerial acrobatics as they swooped and dived to catch insects was breathtaking. We also saw Great Blue Herons, Spotted Sandpipers, Mergansers and other ducks, a Snowy Egret, and two White Pelicans.

As always, the stillness and solitude made for deep connections with Nature, Earth, and Spirit. Marvelous!