Schoharie Creek

A lot has changed in this section after Hurricane Irene. I paddled Esperance to Burtonsville this week. The 3/4 of a mile above Burntonsville, in the 'gorge', there are several changes in the rapids. Half the flow is restricted by a new 'breakwater' at the entrance to the gorge. Large rocks have been piled up on the left side of the river; it looks like it could protect a harbor from ocean waves. The second ledge drop below is gone. It appears there is a new dam 100 yards below the two drops backing up water. The pool under the cliffs is much larger and the rapids just above the gauging station are much larger. Entering Burtonsville the river splits into three major channels. Previously the main flow was in the left 2, now the majoring of the water is headed to the right, eastern channel. We paddled at 2.7' on the gauge. On 10/30/11 I paddled the rest of the way to the Mohawk. Beautiful valley and river. Even though the river is flattening out there is still a couple solid class II rapids. Keep an eye open for the strainer on river left 1/2 mile below Mill point. It was a cold swim.