If you have read the History section you will have a grip on the entire past life of the Canoe Trip. While the Canoe trip is still a part of the event it has also evolved into a social gathering to renew old friendships and bonds. Partly due to the age of the participants and partly due to the distances and schedules of the same, sitting around a fire and shooting the bull is most popular.
A lot of time this is our only contact with our fellow Fraters and families and these times are cherished by all. Whitewater canoeing and roughing it in tents has moderated into a lazy float and every camping accessory under the sun. Nothing like setting up camp and planting your ass in a comfy lawn chair and just watch the day spin by.
Mealtime has also changed from beans & franks to steaks, ribs, crab legs and many other culinary treats. Many of our children there have been coming to these since they were born, hell, some might have been conceived on the canoe trip too! The key is there is no pressure to impress anyone just good times.
Lets take a look at what you need to survive the trip…..a good sense of humor is a fine start. Seriously, if you are going to be camping then a good tent, sleeping bags, rain gear, cooking items, a few coolers, clothing from shirts to ponchos and jackets. The temps have ranged from the high 80's to the high 40's and it has been sunny, windy, rainy, hot and cold so the idea is come prepared for everything just to be sure. Wood is available locally as are showers with hot water (if you get there early) and fire pit rings for cooking. A grille and charcoal are also a good idea as is sun block and insect repellent. There are a couple of grocery stores pretty close so you can get most of your food and beer locally.
Now for those of you who are camping challenged there is a lodge in the park and hotels in Crawfordsville, but remember it is race weekend so rooms fill up fast. Check out the accommodations section of the website for info on these.
Well, that is about it and if anybody has anything to add to this page just click on the TKE crest and send me a note
See you in the woods!