Outer South Baranof: July 8, Aspid Cape to Sandy Bay

Slow morning--got a late start, and shortly after launching, ran into another paddler (in a plastic sit-on-top recreational kayak, of all things), who gave me a lot of excellent data about paddling to come. The paddler was a Sitka local--Jay--who spends much of his time paddling and sailing the outer coast of Baranof and the surrounding areas.  Really a remarkable guy--knew every rock and every beach and a lot more.  He told me that I should have camped in Yamani Cove, just East of Aspid Cape and less than a mile from where I had camped the previous night.

Jay volunteered to make the crossing to North Cape with me, where we stopped for a lunch break.  Along the way, he pointed out some beautiful beaches in the North Cape area, and told me a typically Alaskan story about standing in a tree above a North Cape beach and watching a Brown bear walk underneath him, just inches away, and unable to see him (though apparently quite aware of his scent).  Really enjoyed the conversation, the intelligence on camping and paddling to come, and appreciated how far he paddled out of his way with me!

Sea otter near Pt. Lauder

After Jay peeled off to cross back to Yamani Cove, I continued on, crossing Whale Bay to Pt. Lauder--a beautiful spot for dinner.  Dinner was turkey jambalaya, rehydrated in a thermos.  From there, continued on to Sandy Bay, with lovely paddling conditions.  In general, despite forecasted headwinds, had a great paddle, and although I was feeling a bit uncomfortable in the ocean swells (low as they were), began to feel more comfortable as the day went on, even in places with some clapotis.

A great deal of wildlife on the 8th, including porpoises, puffins, and lots of otters.

Camped on a steep shingle beach on the W side and just inside Sandy Bay.  This beach may be difficult to access at lower tides, but was quite pretty.