North Anna

Ran the river at 2800 cft, or around 10.5 ft. The first 2/3 of the river is pretty much flat except for one wave train, which was pretty fun.

Once we got closer to the bottom (the last 2 miles), that's when things started to get interesting.

We were less experienced with high water, and when we hit the first section of white water, we noticed a number of sticky holes with almost no scouting options or ways of helping someone if they messed up. Overall, everyone was fine, and the section was fun, but it felt like a risky section for anyone who isn't 100% confident.

We got to the fall line and found the pull-off section. At 2800 cft., the scouting trail is hard to see. Trust that it is there, and you will be walking through 2–3 feet of water on the side of a cliff with very difficult footing.

Once we scouted the rapid at this height, there were a number of large holes with debris in the center that looked like a death trap. You need to scout this rapid. Two members of the group decided not to run the rapid and walked their boats around on a trail. Note that this trail is 1/4 of a mile up a steep hill and has a side trail that is hard to find.

I decided on a line to the right, hugging the scouting trail. It was a lot of fun and there were no problems.

Overall, I would not recommend this river at this height for anyone who isn't an intermediate or wants a challenge. Difficult terrain made it a pain to scout and protect areas, which took away from the experience.