He suggested we do Philpott Dam release at the spillway to the Bassett Access behind the Bassett Furniture Factory. It was about 6 miles and took us about 2hours and 20 minutes. The Dam released from 11 am to 9 pm today it releases 690cfs and the gauge 4.01ft. http://waterdata.usgs.gov/va/nwis/uv?02072000 River gauge at Philpott. Access information: http://danriver.org/RiverInfo/Access/SmithRiver_PhilPott.htm
Doug said the water is always cold so be prepared. The water temperature was in the 40's and the air temperture was 97 degrees. It felt like we were riding on an air conditioner. In cooler weather we would have to dress much differently because it was nice today and it was 97 degrees.
You start below the Philpott dam at the powerhouse. This is one paddle trail where you only need to paddle to keep your boat straight. The water keeps you moving it the dam is releasing which is the only time you can paddle it. This run has several class 1 and possibly 2 rapids and the descending gradient of the river keeps you moving nicely. It was really fun.
It was beautiful until you get to the take out access right past the second bridge. It gets ugly fast from the remains of the old furniture factory and industrial soil. Perfect trail to paddle when we have had a week of temperature near 100 degrees.
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