Oatka Creek

Doug Roode at the base of Buttermilk Falls, preparing for a seal launch into the creek (stage 4.5 feet on the Garbutt gauge). Typical spring conditions in upstate New York (March 2001).
Harry Marinakis, M.D. paddles off into the sunset after a seal launch from the ice formations at the base of Buttermilk Falls (4.5 feet on the Garbutt gauge).
Doug Roode (left), Steve Baker (center) and Jim Albano rip up the famous Oatka Creek surf wave at 4.5 feet on the Garbutt gauge (March 2001).
A view of Buttermilk Falls and the abandoned railroad bridge just upstream. This waterfall is not runnable, as the pool below is shallow and clogged with debris.