Pemigewasset

On 6-14, the Pemi was at 900, which was perfect. There is an great spot before the rodeo hole on river left to eddy out and scout. From here, you can spot the tongue to the right of the hole. Paddle upstream on river left, then ferry over to river right and float down to the left of the hole. Immediately after the drop, there are numerous rocks and pillows to avoid. Much of the section leading to the put out can be rocky at this level.

Discovered that It's possible and fun to run left chute of Wourthen's

Just came out for a surf session, but the wave is washed out at 3600cfs.

2016: Ayer Island - Pemi at Bristol August 20-21 release cancelled due to low water.

Site Review

On August 28th, 2011 Hurricane Irene struck New England. The resulting floods caused extensive damage throughout the region, the worst in over 100 years. More than half the rivers in Vermont and northern New Hampshire recorded their highest flow levels ever. Many roads, guardrails, power lines, bridges, trees and other debris now litter several rivers throughout the region. River beds have been scoured and changed course, many new strainers make navigation problematic at best and downright dangerous at worse. The Pemi Bristol section was run shortly after the storm and found to be clear of any debris with little noticeable change in river features, rapids, etc. However, the large wood/tree pile that has been building up at the first drop for many years has washed out. It is now easier to scout or portage this drop.

With the bridge out; it is not too difficult to leave a
vehicle at the take-out then walk/boat to the putin. Most people know
there is a very nice path on the New Hampton (paddler's left) side of the
river that makes it easy to drag or carry a (light) boat from the bridge
to the first drop. If you ferry across the river from there you can take
back out at a small pebble beach just before the first drop on the right
side of the river. From there go about 20 feet uphill and you will
magically appear on a lawn that appears to be maintained by Public Works.
You will see a fence that makes it look like you are behind a
locked gate but before you get to the fence you will be on the road near
the recycle center. It appeared to be pedestrian friendly and I did not
see any posted no-trespassing signs but it would be prudent to show the
area the full respect one would show any private property just in case.

You can scout this on your way to the putin also. When you get to
the recycle center take a right instead of the left you usually take then
the field will be on your immediate left. You can drive half way down the
field on the roadway then take the short walk to the river. As with any
outdoor area take precautions against natural hazards such as ivy, ticks,
etc.

Dam fly by. Put in is at the lower right of the picture.
Several hundred feet over the Pig Roast rodeo hole.

Picture of the guy who takes pictures

Charlie Walbridge teaching his world-renowned river rescue course to the NH AMC in July of 2003.