Ausable, W. Branch,

1. Adirondak Loj Road to Route 73

Gauge Information

River Description

This is the upper reach of the AuSable, generally fed by snowmelt from the mountains. As such, it generally only runs in the spring or after very heavy rains.
This section is a remote and pretty paddle, with nice scenery. There are no trails near the river; a walk out through the dense balsam is difficult.
The stream is narrow, good manuvering skills are a must for an enjoyable day. A smaller boat is helpful. There are many beaver-generated strainers. (At levels above 5 feet on the take-out guage these strainers become mobile.) The main characterisics of this stream are created by boulders and beavers. The eddies are small, few, and difficult to catch making this is a great natural slalom run. There are a few small surf waves if you can catch them. A private ranch with two small bridges over the river is about half way; please respect their privacy. State land is generally along river left with some private land on river right.
Guidebook: Adirondack Canoe Waters, North Flow. by P. Jamieson and D. Morris, published by the Adirondack Mountain Club.
Note:Any beginners should be comfortable on the Indian and Hudson before running this narrow stream.