Autumn is officially here.  Well, maybe not officially, but it certainly feels like it.  Here in the Pacific Northwest, we know autumn has arrived when the nighttime temperatures dip into the low 50's, the leaves start to change, and school buses greet us every morning.

It seems like only yesterday soaring high temperatures drove us to the lakes and rivers in hordes, desperate for relief from the heat.  Now, many of those same lakes and rivers stand empty or host solitary fishing boats that sit quiet and still in sheltered bays.

Which is one of the many reasons why you need to grab your SUP and hit the water one last time (or two or three if you can manage it).

Think about it -  no more rambunctious PWCs zooming in and out with little regard for the man-powered vessels slowly making their way across the water.  And those boat launches that always seemed to be full?  Now they're mostly empty with no lines at the ramp and no delays before you get out on the water.

Sure, it's a bit colder.  And yes, rain is coming.  But are those reasons to ignore one of the most beautiful (and my personal favorite) season of the year?

I think not.

Of course, there are some of you who laugh in the face of frost and aren't at all intimidated by ice or snow.  Those same people venture out into the wilds and hit the water regardless of season and can no doubt tell you hundreds of amazing reasons why you should do the same.

We understand, however, that some of you may exchange SUPs for skis/snowboards and boats for snowmachines.  Before you do so, we want you to consider taking one last paddling adventure.  Believe us, it is definitely worth it.

Why?  Here are four of our favorite reasons why you shouldn't pack away that SUP yet.

1.  See above.  It's beautiful.  Need we say more?

2.  Crowds?  What crowds?  With many sticking close to home as children return to school, most of those fan-favorite destinations that were crowded all summer now stand empty.  

3.  Now that the water isn't as crowded and you aren't being bombarded by waves, you might consider trying something new with your SUP.  Those SUP yoga positions you've been hesitant to attempt?  Now is the time to give them a try.  Those new strokes for maneuvring through tight spaces?  Feel free to practice all you want.  For those of you with touring SUPs, that venture across the entire lake won't be as hazardous now that there is less traffic on the water.

4.  It's a great time to introduce someone new to the the sport.  Grab a pair of SUPs, head down to the lake, and practice with ease all the while enjoying the beauty of the changing seasons.  When you're finished, crack open that thermos of hot cocoa and enjoy.

Although the allure of snow is difficult to ignore, don't be so eager to give up on your SUP just yet.  Take advantage of all that autumn has to offer and enjoy the beauty of the season by taking one last paddling adventure.  When you're done, we are sure you'll be hooked.