Cuyama

Born & raised in this country (family ranch & farm). I have rafted this since 1976. Taught by Chuck Richards & guide on the Kern River. BE CAREFUL, this river does not run year round. Many places go underground. Rocks are sharp, not rounded, spring rains bring down alot of debris (strainers). Watch out for wire fencing! Do not kid yourself, you will be trespassing on my place, relatives & friends. From his putin in Upper Cuyama Valley down to Miranda Pines Road is private. From Miranda Pines it is private & USFS combined for 6 miles to the Miranda Pine Forest Service Station. Then it is private all the way to the Pacific Ocean. Twitchell Reservoir (for flood control) is on the Rancho Suey, not open to the public. If the river has tall rolling waves, class 4/5 maybe class 6. STAY OUT! Mother nature is scouring out all the side canyons of her debris (spring cleaning). This river has claimed many since my childhood, not to be recovered. I have particpate in a few rescues & recoveries, due to our equipment and experience guiding on the Kern River. Yes, I have myself used a splash yak / paddliac from Hyside, as it is more forgiving, flexiable raft. Be Careful, Be Judicious, Have fun. P.S. We have gone down the Santa Maria River to the Pacific.