Kayaking (Whitewater)
116 Washington Avenue - A.K.A. Shred Shack
116 Washington Avenue - A.K.A. Shred Shack
Z Dam Portage, Riverside Drive, Richmond, VA, USA
The James is projected to be at around 11 feet on Sunday because of all this snowmelt (just like out west!) and with Richmond air temperatures in the 60s, it’s a good day to get out there!
That being said, this is a high-level intermediate or advanced trip, only for those with significant whitewater experience. The water will still be very cold and at 11 feet, the James is an entirely different river. I would say at this level is it more dangerous and tricky than the New River at normal flows. New logs (strainers) are a big issue as well as fewer eddies and even the flat water is moving quickly, making swims very difficult to recover from. Please only sign up for this trip if you have some significant paddling experience, however, we could switch things up a little based on experience level so if you feel you’re almost there, ask and we can figure things out. For those with less experience, don’t worry, as soon as the water goes down, I’ll be doing a bunch more beginner trips but for now, sign up for pool sessions!
My general plan for this trip is to hit Z-dam and/or Pony Pasture first and try to get some surfing in, SUP or kayak, then do an upper lap. Those who are feeling up for tackling the lower at high water can continue on to the lower while any others can drive down and meet at 14th Street. It will likely be a bit too low for really good Z-dam surfing but Pony still should have some good waves and holes.
Notice – Whitewater sports are inherently dangerous. We lead trips at a level where we feel confident about our ability to keep people on our trip safe. Your safety also depends on you and your honest communication of your abilities and state of being, as well as respect towards any safety advice. The major danger for this trip will be the high water and its effects on the river, including strainers, higher water speed, fewer eddies, and larger features.
I’m thinking 9 am to 3 pm for this, water will be moving quickly but we can figure timing out.
Let me know if you have any questions
-John (8049441929)