Sulphur River, Hwy 71 Ramp going upstream, Arkansas
Kayak paddle trail route map on the Sulphur River in Arkansas, starting at the Highway 71 Boat Ramp just off I-49 south of Texarkana. This trip goes upstream and turns around near the Road 211 launch used on a previous trip. Early morning before things lifted the river had a distinctive smell, sulfur maybe, or vegetation. The water was low and there as almost no current (the Sulphur River nr Texarkana gage read about 9.1, not really noticeable). The behavior of one alligator was unusual, see below.
33.14917,-93.89242
Launch Site Google Maps Link
Above: Nice!
Above: Old supports.
Above: As I paddled upstream this alligator swam towards me, then circled and came back around, and followed me upstream. It didn’t submerge, which is unusual, but often lifted or puffed up its back to show me (a kind of alligator posturing behavior). It was very watchful and aware. It was average adult length, but very thick, and easily a foot-long jaw.
Above: On the way back downstream it was waiting. Top layer of the photo shows an attitude that was kind of concerning, it swam forward, getting closer and closer, showing its back, and kind of squared off. You get a feeling. And they are fast. So I moved away and let the current slowly drift the boat downstream. It tracked after me, steadily and deliberately, for about 30-40 yards. I was thus escorted away from an important place, fair enough, and I went on my way. Could be hatchlings, the season was about right. Curious.