Winter paddling is here. The AW Journal has had several articles in the past on paddling in what most consider the “off-season”. With the AW Journal Archives now online, check out Bob Gedekoh’s “Whitewater Winter”. http://www.americanwhitewater.org/journal/jpg/index.phtml?thefile=1998_2_004.jpg . (If that doesn’t motivate you, then you’re not an out of season paddler!)
I would be remiss if I didn’t state the obvious. Winter paddling does have more risks, but they are certainly manageable. Remember to factor the winter environment into your trip. While a simple swim is of little risk most of the year, that same swim can make a winter trip epic. Bill Young’s “Winter Paddling Safety” http://www.americanwhitewater.org/journal/jpg/index.phtml?thefile=1998_3_065.jpg gives some good advice on how to enjoy your “whitewater winter wonderland” safely.
The recent death on the Green Narrows of NC reminds us that high flows are a big part of what is appealing too many of us who paddle in the winter. Given most mortals (Gedekoh not considered in that category) are paddling far fewer days and the added layers of clothing make things a bit more difficult during the “off season”. Consider this even on the runs you’ve paddled 100’s of times.
Remember the adventure doesn’t stop when you get off the river. Winter shuttles have made for some of the best river tales ever. Check out Ambrose Tuscano and Mike Hoffman’s “Trucks, Mires, and Muddy Escapes”
http://www.americanwhitewater.org/journal/jpg/index.phtml?thefile=1997_5_105.jpg
The safety committee will be spotlighting archived safety articles at least once a month, and adding in a few new thoughts when appropriate. We hope this generates an exchange of dialogue on the AW forum when an issue raises interest. If you can’t wait that long, then do a Topic search for ‘Safety (general)’ and gain access to 99% of the AW safety articles since 1955.
If you really appreciate this priceless history of whitewater safety help use improve this virtual library by volunteering to help sort these articles into subtopics to make searching much easier for us all. Drop me an email tmkelley@clarkson.edu if you’re interested. Enjoy paddling this off-season or simply surfing the AW Journal Archives.