Note: read below and/or click the Map tab to see the multiple access points for this section.
This seldom paddled, (and seldom paddleable), little gem flows through a progressively deepening gorge that separates Howard and Carroll County and makes a delightful jaunt for either a day trip, or for a much shorter paddle when done in sections. Difficulty consists of a good deal of moving flatwater, a great selection of class 2+ ledges, and a couple of easy class 3's. Pray for rain though; it's going to be a long day without enough water.
Put on at Woodbine Road (Route 94) for the full trip, and proceed downstream through mostly 'moving' flatwater with a few class 1-2 rapids. You might notice that the river here is less than half the width of the main section downstream, which it will continue to be for the next 11 miles or so. The top of this section is seldom a 'pretty' trip, with plenty of structures and abodes peeking through the trees at the river, even in the lushest part of spring. And you will certainly know it if a train comes along on the often-used river left tracks that are seemingly overhead in certain areas. Depending on the whim of the river, strainers may be sparse, or ever-present for the three-mile trip to Route 97, and beyond to Gaither Road. Keep an eye peeled through here for the prevalent deer, groundhog, heron, and the occasional beaver.
When you see Route 97 ahead, be aware of the rubble left over from a breached dam. It usually doesn't require a scout, unless logs jam the two paths of the main current. Portage or run this concrete mess and proceed downstream through a couple of monstrous, river-wide strainers that allow a good deal of current through some twisted (unrunnable) arboreal chutes. Portage around, and continue to Gaither Road, which is the take-out for this section or continue into the Gaither Gorge section.