Intermediate Ww Kayaking – Balcony Falls

OVERVIEW

The middle James River offers something for most levels of kayaking with its massive width and decent drops, set beautifully in the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are plenty of decent drops and play spots through several class 2 and two class 3 rapids, including area famous Balcony Falls; a juicy set of wave trains suitable for experienced beginners (at current flow).

To go on this trip you need to be at least an experienced beginner with multiple class 2 river trips in your paddling resume. Upon joining this adventure your name will be added the waitlist then moved to the trip list if appropriate. My criteria for your experience level may change with the water level, which is currently predicted to be at a great level for competent, experienced beginners-intermediates, but may rise with the small system that is coming through the area tonight.

Saturday’s forecast is for sunny skies with highs in the low-50s. The air will feel mild but the water temps are still cold, which adds another level of difficulty to the class 2/3 run. The plan is to meet at Echols at 9, load up the vehicles, take the 1.5 hour drive SE to the take-out, set shuttle, and be on the river by 11:30. I expect to spend around 3 hours on the water and be home by around 6.

The Club provides: Boat, paddle, skirt, pfd, helmet/noseplug, booties, drybags, floatbags, drytop, wetsuit, paddle gloves (limited sizes/quantities), boat transport, ga$

You should bring: Your boat/gear, wear several non-cotton layers, pack a light lunch to eat on the water, water, snacks, money for food/drinks after trip