Suggested Class IV-V runs for WV boater visiting CO in June

[eallman]

Hi guys and gals,

I am coming out to visit some boating friends in Salida, do some kayaking/rafting, mtn. biking and make a return stop to Rocky Mtn. National Park in June. My parents took me to RMNP when I was 1 1/2 years old. I will be leaving WV around June 15 and hope to stay in CO until late July.

I am wanting to know what runs you guys might suggest for me. I used to work as a video boater on the Upper Gauley and New River Gorge in WV. I left the videoboating job in 2004 and have been teaching jr. high for the past few years. My skills are a little rusty but I still manage to paddle solid IV+ stuff.

For those who know the Southeast, I am looking for rivers/creeks along the lines of Upper Gauley, Wilson Creek, Watauga River, New River Gorge, Upper Yough, etc.

My question to all of you is what runs would you suggest I try to get on while visiting your great state. Keep in mind I am not looking for Class V creeks. Sure, I can do them and may take the opportunity, so go ahead and feel free to mention them anyway.

Thanks for all of your help. BTW-if anyone is looking for ride back East to WV for Gauley Season then please mention it. I could use the company on the drive back. I'll have room for a boat and your gear on my Ford Ranger with topper and rack.

Thanks again,

Eric Allman
WV boater

[DanOrion]

Order a copy of the new Whitewater of the Southern Rockies book...it'll come in handy for you. There'll be plenty of good water in while you're here.

[raftus]

Here are the highlights, water dependent, from a rafter and former Gauley guide:
Gore Canyon - Colorado River (2 class V's, easy portage/scout)
Dowd Chute and upper Eagle River (class IV)
Slaughter House - Roaring Fork (class IV-IV+)
Bogan Canyon and Narrows - Crystal (scout the Meat grinder V+ for fun, the rest is III-IV+)
Upper Animas River (IV+ - V)
Piedra (IV)
Pine Creek, Numbers, Royal Gorge - Arkansas River (IV-V)
Lawson through Blackrock - Clear Creek (IV-V)
Upper Mish through Bridges - Cache la Poudre (III-IV+)
Cross Mtn Gorge - Yampa (IV-V (p))

Maybe some of the kayakers can recommend their favorite runs that I missed.

[Gary E]

Bailey is great and close if it runs. Slaughterhouse is the best class 4 in the state. All within 2 hrs

Gary

[cbrobin]

I used to work as a video boater on the Upper Gauley and New River Gorge in WV.

I still tell people about how impressive the video boaters were on the upper Gauley.
You are going to have a very good time here.