Otter Brook,

East Sullivan to Otterbrook Park

Usual Difficulty	III-IV (may vary with level)
Length	3.2 Miles
Avg. Gradient	82 fpm
Max Gradient	95 fpm

Gauge Information

Name	Range	Difficulty	Updated	Level
OTTER BROOK BELOW OTTER BROOK DAM, NEAR KEENE, NH
usgs-01158600	240 - 800 cfs	III-IV	01h06m	139 cfs (rc= -0.2 )

River Description

Otter Brook is a small creek located in southwestern NH. NH route 9 parrallels the run for most of the way but is only occasionally visible from the river. It has a continuous gradient over its three mile course. The first half of the river is steeper with a few rock strewn ledge drops one of which is approximately 3’. This one is located behind a home where the river swings left away from the road. Most paddlers boat scout the river as they run. Be aware that strainers are common; often trees will completely cross over and block the river. In medium to high water be especially cautious of strainers since the velocity of the water will shorten maneuvering time. At the two mile mark you will come across the new Granite Gorge Ski area which was recovered and rebuilt from the old abandoned Pinnacle ski area. From here down the gradient slackens off and becomes more class II-III in nature. This is an alternate put in / take out. Early in the season the take out road at Otter Brook Park may be gated and closed due to snow. It will be necessary to carry up the hill approximately .2 miles. When open the take out is at a picnic area with picnic tables and bathroom facilities. The river from this point on is usually ponded by a flood control dam down to Lower Otter Brook about three miles.

Technical info

Put in elevation........997'
Take out elevation......735'
Total drop..............262'
Average drop/mile.......82'
Distance................3.2 miles
1st mile drop...........95'
2nd mile drop...........92'
3rd mile drop...........65'
4th mile drop...........10' (average 50')
River width average.....25'
River geology...........small to medium granite boulders, some ledge. 
River water quality.....Good, clear except for quick runoff periods.   
Scenery.................Good to excellent forest scenery.  Route 9
                        occasionally visible along the river. About three or 
                        four homes visible along the banks.
Wildlife................Occasional deer, hawks, Turkeys