New

I've ran this river 8-10 times, sometimes in a kayak and some in a duckie. I agree with one of the previous boaters. The type of boat can make or break a day here. I actually started paddling on the Mcreery to Thurmond section in a kayak. My take on the Upper New is that it can be a good beginner run if you are in a kayak or IK. A roll is nice but as long as you can wet exit you will be fine. An open canoe, especially with no floatation could lead to a bad day. As far as holes go, low water levels are the worst for sticky ones. A good level (In my opinion is 7ft on the thurmond gauge)just big waves at this level and the rapids all end in deep pools, so if you swim you have plenty of time to collect your stuff. S. Sage