04/06/2026
Entry #1 - June 3rd, 2026 - Yahara Expedition
As I sit here on an early June evening, I realize I'm only 23 days from sail.
One may wonder, why the Yahara Lakes? Why not something more grand?
Well, the truth is the lakes of the Yahara hold something deep for me.
I first learned of the Yahara waterways as a young child when I visited Henry Vilas Zoo. The zoo sits right next to Lake Wingra. At the time, I didn't think much of it. However, in 2005 that changed when an F3 tornado came within a half mile of striking me. In the days that followed, a visitor released home video of the tornado that he captured near Springer's on Lake Kegonsa. The video displayed raw power from the atmosphere. Not only was a killer tornado ongoing, but you could also see how violently the winds were affecting the water. It was one of the first times I remember seeing weather and water connected in such a powerful way.
As the years passed and I grew older, I found myself attending events such as Christmas light displays at Olin Park along Lake Monona. I'd often look out across the boat ramp and see the beautiful State Capitol and skyline of downtown Madison. The interest in seeing life from the lakes' vantage point continued to grow.
One day I found myself standing on Monona Terrace in 2023. Looking out across the vast lake, I saw kayakers. They waved at me and I waved back in jealousy. Afterwards, I went to Rutabaga Paddlesports and found a free booklet called The Yahara Waterway. I grabbed it and immediately started researching.
In May of 2024, I completed my first section of the Yahara River. I was beyond proud, but I wanted to explore more of the waterway. I wanted to see Upper Mud Lake, a lake I crossed weekly as a child. I wanted to see Lake Waubesa, a lake I saw firsthand whenever I visited my uncle at his shop.
It all came to a head in late 2025. After moving closer to home following a decade away, I finally said to myself that it was time. After 21 years, it was finally time to see the world from those lakes and river systems and conquer the one thing that made me fall in love with nature in the first place.
This adventure may not seem grand, but it's a personal calling for me.
23 days until sail.
Picture from my adventure on the lower Yahara River in 2024.
