Columbia Falls kayaker circles Flathead Lake for Special Olympics

For the second year in a row, Brian McGough of Columbia Falls will paddle his kayak around Flathead Lake over a period of five days to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics Montana - Glacier Area.

McGough encourages other kayak enthusiasts to join him in this endeavor, billed as the Flathead Lake Challenge.

Beginning the morning of Monday, Aug. 3, McGough and others will depart the public beach in Somers Bay and paddle south around the lake, stopping to camp each evening at state parks along the way.

McGough hopes to raise money for the Glacier Area Special Olympics team. Tax-deductible donations can be made online now through the end of the year at www.firstgiving.com/mtletr/flathead-lake-challenge.

 Anyone interested in kayaking one or more legs of the challenge can contact McGough directly to coordinate the details at 406-471-2111 or flatheadlakechallenge@gmail.com.

Paddlers are asked to have their own kayaks, paddles and personal flotation devices and any needed camping gear if staying the night.

The event is being co-sponsored by Montana State Parks, which is providing camping opportunities to the kayakers. Each leg will begin at approximately 6 a.m.

The schedule is as follows:

Monday, Aug. 3 — Depart Somers Bay Public Beach and paddle to West Shore State Park.

Tuesday, Aug. 4 — Depart West Shore State Park and paddle to Big Arm State Park.

Wednesday, Aug. 5 — Depart Big Arm State Park and paddle to Yellow Bay State Park.

Thursday, Aug. 6 — Depart Yellow Bay State Park and paddle to Wayfarer’s State Park.

Friday, Aug. 7 — Depart Wayfarer’s State Park and paddle to Somers Bay.