Calling all Upper Animas pros - compared to The Numbers?

Mike Hartley · 05-19-2006

I've really wanted to run the Upper Animas over the years but have been gun-shy (ie. drowning-shy). At the same time I've run the Numbers a ton and a lot of other run-of-the-mill 4th Class. I'm not sure if I've made it out to be harder than it really is. Length aside, if you can run the Numbers reasonably comfortably does that mean you are ready for the Upper Animas? The three Class 5's don't count. I know I'd be walking those. Thanks.

mania · 05-19-2006

maybe, maybe not. its a lot more continuous and remote than the numbers. go at lower flows your first time. go with someone who knows it.

pcrawford · 05-22-2007

I thought the upper-a was considerably harder then the numbers. keep in mind its not too fun to be running stuff on the edge of your ability level in a canyon where rescue might take a while. This whole trip wears you out too b/c of the length. But i don't want to discourage you - its a great river, I also saw it at a huge level so maybe its different.

nicoleg · 05-22-2007

I bet the level would make a big difference as to its difficulty, but the gauge there is hard to go by as there are a bunch of feeder creeks that really add cfs.

IMO, the upper a is MUCH harder than the numbers. The remoteness, continous nature, length, and perhaps most of all, the FRIGID freezing f-ing cold water.

I would try it later in the season, at lower water, and plan it as an overnighter. Going with someone who knows it is not such a bad idea either.

Gorgeous run though, and definitely worth doing. Just be prepared.

Roy · 05-22-2007

Outside of No Name and that entrance to Rockwood, I don't think there are any drops that are harder than than, say Numbers IV or V at big water, but it's waaaaaaaay more committing and the consequences of a swim are severe.

As others have mentioned, that water's cold and fast, and you're a long way from help.

Mut · 05-22-2007

The upper is harder with more sever consequenses than the numbers. However if you take out Ten Mile, No Name Broken Bridge and the Rockwood Box the run is much easier. I think that if you are solid on the numbers at all water levels and you take someone on the upper who knows the run and can tell you when to get out and portage the bigger rapids, you should be fine.

As mentioned, the run can be very cold, even on sunny days-- so dress appropriatley. On comercial trips we would often stop and have a lunch fire.

I would also recomend an overnighter. Two nights is really nice also. On the second day you can hike up into Chicago Basin and tag a fourteener.

Mut