December 13, 2004
| Reporter | Karl Whipp |
I've been eyeballing this one from the Meadow for years now. In trying to find information on it in preparation for when the opportunity arises, I finally found a very reputable source. What I can tell you from my conversation with this person is that the run starts with a 20' waterfall with a small margin for error. After that, the creek chokes down to 'micro' in size and averages class IV+ to V- with a few solid Vs thrown about. I also know that there is one rapid in there that is not a 'mandatory' portage, but for all intents & purposes for most mortals, it is a portage in the upper class V+ range (5.2 or 5.3). Is a tiny slot with undercuts on both sides and a horrible recirculating eddy / whirlpool / hole thing. My understanding is that it is UGLY and if you dont make the slot, the only hope for rescue is a well timed rope.
Along the run, portaging is not easy according to my source. It's rhododendron hell in there. Plan a lot of time for this run and be ready to do a lot of scouting. And as always keep an eye out for lumber!