Question about Los Pinos below Vallecito

[stonej]

I've seen some releases on it...what is the "legality" of this run, and if it is legal to run, where would be a good takeout. I've heard it is a class II+ run, and hell, me and a friend are just looking to get on some damn winter water. Also, is there a release schedule or good level to run it. Thanks,
Josh

[LSB]

We poached it last summer
II+ is about right
we got access from a homeowner in the neighborhood just below the campground and took out at the 501 bridge on the downstream left side on private property behind that green fence
we left a truck at the end of that Texas creek road just up from there, hid the boats under the bridge and I toted them up when my buddy ran up to get his truck.
Kind of a pain in the ass for class II+ water.
You might be able to get in through the campground below the power plant.
There may also a takeout in the neighborhood below the 501 bridge, I think the name is Pine River Ranch.
There is a good surf wave about half way down behind Cool Water Ranch.
A few property owners gave us the hairy eyeball when they saw us like we were trespassing on their river.
And some guy at that Christian camp hollered and asked us where we were planning to take out then followed us to the end of the property on a ATV to make sure we didnt bother the church kids I guess.
Good luck and post any new beta
also the town of bayfield is interested in a WW park and improving recreation on the pine so get involved if they ask for more comments

it kinda sounds like a pain for a class2 run. If your really that hard up I would opt for the Rockwood Box. I've hiked it twice this winter to check it out. Its clear of ice and has just enough water to float right know. If the animas in durango comes up to 450 or up it would really be good to go for a low water run. the hike in wouldn't be bad as you can drag your boat in the snow along the tracks(no black oil marks on your boat from the tracks) the hike out might be a little "fun" but with the right footwear wouldn't be so bad. I think when the water comes up a little I'm going to hit it up. It is super beautiful in there right now. just my.02

[cosurfgod]

If you go, give me a call. I have always been curious about this section. I will run it anytime/any weather.

How about 5:30 on Friday 2/25 with a couple 40s? The weekend I have to ski, the snow is so good right now.

Thanks,
Taylor
749-1789

[stonej]

Hey Taylor,
I am thinking about maybe this weekend. My friend has a fly fishing buddy who lives on the river, so access for put in looks good. I will check on releases and let you know.
Josh
615-498-7831

[rivermanryan]

With the current release on the Los Pinos, don't you think it is an even better arguement for a feature or two in Bayfield? Maybe there is enough rock around the park, we could start to build our own!