Sandy

This section used to be a total favorite of mine and really, it still is. That said it is NOT a good 'step up' run because it is sievy, undercut, and always seems to have dangerous wood. This run is for people with solid class IV or better skills that just want to play.

I just scanned the AW ratings of the rapids and based on yesterday's run the ratings are questionable. Revenue is certainly not a 4-, it's more like a 4+. Anyway, judge for yourself, don't trust a website or a guidebook, because this run is constantly changing.

Based on yesterday's run and a study of the Marmot gauge, I'd say old flow parameters are out the window: we're starting fresh. They just recalibrated the gauge so it's not going to go back to the way it was.

Yesterday's gauge reading of 660 used to be what I would consider too low, but yesterday we were able to complete the run without portages AND there were some great playspots.

The log jam goes on left or right, just don't screw up. The first class 3+ is different--going down the left is 4ish now, making a move to the far right after the hole keeps it at a 3. Boulder drop is passable for hardshells by going far left under the cliff, then cutting right before the sieve to get back in the main flow and run the bottom drop which has a stouter hole than before. There is no good option for inflatables. Rasp rock has eased up with a splash-free line down the right. Drainhole has multiple possible lines and a huge root ball stuck in Door #2 which would kill a swimmer. Door #3 is open and more fun than before.

Revenue Rapid at low water is still a steep, narrow, shallow luge ride down to the wall on the right, after which you must pick a side of the sharp rock. Again, there is no good option for an inflatable at low water: don't even try. The photo already posted here is of the bottom drop of Revenue which does not explain the situation in the top part. I will share a photo of the rock-infested top part.

For a paddler with the right skills this is a playground. For a boater in the wrong craft or without the requisite skills, this gorge deserves its reputation and should be avoided.