Friday, August 29, 2014

Paddle the Dan River, Jessup's Mill to Hart Access

Fun day on the Dan River it was August 17th and had rained all day the 16th.  Paddling the Dan in August is a treat because the water is usually too low.  This section putting in at Jessup's Mill on Collinstown Rd. was a special treat because we do not get to do it very often because of low water.  I have never paddled this set ion below 2 ft on the Fransisco water gauge and heard it was very boney below that.  Today the gauge was 1.85ft and 195 cfs.  It was a little challenging to find a line down river without getting stuck but was still very enjoyable.  We will be definitely be doing this section at 1.8ft and up again.  Also be sure to check with the owner of Jessup's Mill to check if there are any strainers.  The owner of Jessup's Mill also runs a shuttle if you contact him the day before.  The river narrows at a place called lunch rock and strainers get lodged there and it can be very dangerous.  This section and many class I and II rapids.  FUN!