Intermediate 2-Advanced Kayaking & “Not Swiss Fest”

OVERVIEW

This is a weekend multi-skill level (but not beginner) paddling trip to the Gauley River and “Not Swiss Fest” – (which is the relocated version of “Swiss Fest” -an informal gathering of local VA paddlers) that used to take place at the Swiss takeout on the first release weekend every year till the NPS bought the takeout and outlawed camping – The Swiss Fest refugees have now relocated to a quasi-secret location.
TIMES/PLAN:
One vehicle is heading up Thursday night with people who are looking to paddle Friday; I personally hope to leave Friday at 5 PM, all will return by 9 PM Sunday, but some will likely be looking to return earlier Sunday. Put in the Q&A if there’s any specific segments you’d like to paddle, and any schedule constraints.
THE PADDLING:
The crowd at “NOT Swiss Fest” will have a diverse skill set, and trips on all segments of the Gauley (and maybe the New River) will likely go out Saturday & Sunday. I’ll likely end up paddling the Lower Gauley (LG) as part of a Gauley marathon trip one or both days, and strong intermediate “common adventurers” with qualified river resumes can join me for the LG segment. If some weaker intermediates sign up and we have enough vehicles, I could try and add just the easier Middle Gauley (MG) to the group itinerary. The number of first timers that may join on the MG/LG shall depend on the # of experienced boaters available to assist with potential carnage cleanup. Indicate in the Q/A which Gauley segments you’d like to paddle each day.
DISCLAIMER/LEGAL:
I am NOT “leading” any river trips, I am only coordinating some transportation and logistics. YOU are responsible for your own safety and the activities you choose to participate in while on this trip. Additionally, all participants must have read and must agree to abide by the American Whitewater Safety Code http://www.americanwhitewater.org/content/Wiki/safety:start? for the duration of the trip.
All who participate on this trip agree to participate as “Common Adventurers”.
REQUIRED SKILLS:
Everyone gets waitlisted till I screen your skills, which should include: Reliable combat roll and/or stellar bracing/leaning skills such that you don’t have to roll.
FOOD:
I’m bringing the grill and most of my camp kitchen. I like to keep my time in the grocery store as short as possible for these trips, and if possible – at just one store (i.e. Sams Club)! So indicate in the Q&A if you’re IN or OUT for the entire proposed breakfast/lunch/dinner meal plan. If you opt out – you’re on your own to grocery shop, and you can be reimbursed up to $8/day if you provide me your grocery receipts.
Breakfasts (all days): Make your own omelets in a bag; Lunch (all days): Ham & Turkey sandwich meat on Bagel thins with condiments; Dinner (Saturday night only) Steak and 2 grilled vegetables. Thursday night and Friday night dinners are “on the road” or Bring Your Own.
CAMPING:
“Not Swiss Fest” will not not be at: http://tawneyfarm.com/ If you split off and pay to camp elsewhere, get a receipt. Bring or request a tent / pad / bag.
FEES:
I put $30 as a guesstimate of what all participants should expect to spend on misc stuff throughout the weekend (this fee does NOT get paid to me – its just a heads up).
ENTERTAINMENT:
Entertainment includes: “The Band Wagon” http://www.reverbnation.com/pamstratton and maybe another band or two, starting at 8 PM on Friday, amateur fireworks displays throughout the weekend, general boater debauchery, and this site is adjacent to a working sheep farm – tours are available!

Club Provides: Boats & Gear if you need them, camping gear if you need it, ride in car.

You Provide: Any paddling and camping gear you already have, sunblock, river apparel, perhaps some warm layers for nights.