The 2012 Tribal Journey came to Olympia's Northpoint on Sunday, July 29th. We wanted to paddle with all the tribes coming from as far away as British Columbia and the Washington coast, but also wanted to be respectful. So, we launched our SUPs at Boston Harbor in the morning and paddled beside the canoes to their "soft landing" and lunch at Burfoot Park. We pulled our boards onto the shore and visited and observed. Then we launched our SUPs with them and paddled along side them (300 ft away) down to Olympia, about 7 miles. It was awesome hearing their songs as we paddled. The weather and conditions on the water were perfect. The official count was 102 tribal canoes! It was an amazing experience for us, especially because we paddle these waters all the time. To see the orignial peoples taking the water over again was precious and gave you goose bumps. A day to never forget!
Waiting for the canoes to come in for the soft landing at Burfoot Park.
The soft landing
Yep, I thought it fitting to wear my kuspuk
Our friends that kayaked with us to Burfoot Park
The canoes coming in to ask for permission from the Squaxin to come ashore. This ceremony lasted many hours and probably over a thousand folks came to watch from the water and land.
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