There has been very little discussion of the "Rim Route" for the last several years on this page. First, there was bridge damage and fallen trees resulting from the 2005 hurricane season, and then the low lake levels made transit of the Rim Route almost impossible. This passage has always been shallower than the "Lake Route."
Well, in reading Captain Bill's message below, it looks like the trees have been removed, the Torry Island Bridge repaired, and there is enough depth now for most cruising craft to use the Rim Route.
For those who don't know, the Rim route (moving west on the Okeechobee Waterway) cuts south from the Port Mayaca Lock, and follows the eastern and then southern shores of Lake Okeechobee to Pahokee. Then, a bit farther along, the channel ducks into a canal-like section which eventually runs north to Clewiston. The latter 1/2 of this passage is well sheltered, but the initial run from the lock to Pahokee is a bear during northerly winds.

Subject: Rim route
Cruising News: Did the Rim route westbound,Dec 9-10. Lake level 14.1ft. Shallowest spot is 7.5 ft as you make the left onto the rim route after coming out of the mayaca lock, once you start paralleling shore it deepens, next shallowest was 8.5 just before Clewiston. No evidence of debris/snags etc. wildlife was spectacular saw at least 12 birds we had never seen before. Did not stop at Pahokie but docks looked ok but work going on shore . A few boats in Marina. We anchored off Slims fish camp and used his floating dock, no dockage available. Hopefully there will be enuf water in spring.
Bill on Hydrotherapy