More Cold Whitewater Kayaking on the James

OVERVIEW

It’s once again time to brave the frigid rapids of the James, this type of trip is how you develop a profound appreciation for the summer time. Personally, I can’t wait.

This trip to the James is intended mainly for intermediate-level paddlers who have paddled whitewater before or attended some pool sessions, if you’re unsure about whether this trip is for you, feel free to ask, I’m happy to talk to anyone about this.

We will be doing the lower section, which is the more difficult of the upper/lower sections of the Falls of the James. The river level won’t be super high but IT WILL BE VERY COLD which will make things more difficult. If you’re looking to get more experience, come to pool sessions, we have a playboat now so even if you know how to roll, you can learn flatwater tricks!

The lower section (III) through Richmond (https://www.americanwhitewater.org/content/River/view/river-detail/1952/main).

The river will be at around 6 ft which makes it a middle level for the lower with the ability to play around in a couple of cool spots for more advanced people, nothing will be too difficult or dangerous and we will be able to take our time and scout stuff if need be. The main concern with this trip will be cold water and air temperatures, we will provide warm gear but only sign up if you are comfortable with cold temperatures. Even with gear, it will feel very cold.

Rough Timeline –
12:00 PM – Be at 116 Washington Ave and drive to the whitewater locker to get boats and gear
1:15 PM – Arrive at Reedy Creek and set shuttle
2:00 PM – Paddle
4:30 PM – Finish paddling, drive back
5:30 PM – Arrive back in Charlottesville
These are rough estimates, we may be back slightly earlier or later.

What to bring –
A fleece or other warm active baselayer to wear under dry gear (please ask if you have questions about this, it will help keep you much warmer)
Shoes that can get wet and won’t fall off in moving water, wool socks
A change of clothes for after
Towel
Bag for wet stuff
Any food and water you may need
Kayak or gear if you have it

What the club will provide –
Kayak
Paddle
Skirt
Helmet
PFD
Splash top and/or wetsuit

Temperature – The air temperature is projected to be in the 40s with water temperatures in the 30s. THIS IS GOING TO BE VERY COLD AND UNCOMFORTABLE. Hypothermia is a real possibility at these temperatures so if you don’t like the cold or don’t have cold water experience, please wait until it gets warmer, we will do plenty more trips!

If you ever want to check river conditions, howsthejamesrva.com is a good resource with temperature, water level, and a live camera.

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.

Drivers with car space and roof racks (with crossbars) are needed and will receive waitlist priority, gas reimbursed plus tip up to $20.

Let me know if you have any questions (8049441929).

-John