Hudson

This dam channels the entire Hudson through a narrow bottle-neck. During the winter the dam gates are left open to allow ice to pass while during the canal season the gates are closed and a large low-head dam handles normal flows.

When the Hudson River is in flood stage the gates at the Lock 2 dam are opened to spill the overflow.  This forms a number of BIG water waves.  Multiple waves are formed as reactionaries from the massive hydraulics formed by the spilling water, however the best wave forms from the river left- most gate. This is where luck comes in to the equation. Depending on which locks are open and the pool height massive waves will form.

This is a big water playspot so expect the eddy lines to tough to punch, and the water to be very pushy when ferrying. Whirlpools can even form which will momentarily suck a playboat under on the eddy lines. Everything deposits into a pool, so this could be used for big water training.

The dam is completely open all winter and can have great low water play. Mid-May the gates will close in preparation for the canal system season and then the big waves are primed to come in.

WARNING: Be extremely cautious of the top of the eddies where they meet the water passing under the dam gates.

To find out which gates are open you can call the lock operator at (518) 237-8566, just don't tell them why you are asking.  The best waves come in on the furthest and closest gates.

Capital Region Area Reaches

Basic Creek Batten Kill Claverack Creek

Cobleskill Creek

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