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Description
Because it is above Lake Georgetown, the Upper North Fork of the San Gabe doesn't run unless there is a heavy rain, but when it does, this stretch is one of the best playboating runs in Texas. Between 2000-2600 cfs, three large play waves form near the confluence of Bear Creek and the CR 202 "crossing". Eddy service is available on the left. However, because of the canyon walls and waterfall just to the left of the waves, this is not really an ideal park-and-play spot. At this level, constant wave trains and plenty of other play holes and waves will keep you entertained.
At lower levels, other features appear, including one great wave just above the U.S. 183 takeout and a surfing hole just below it.
The USGS gauge for this stretch is relatively new. Playable levels used to be keyed to the S. Fork San Gabe gauge. Current beta is needed regarding how the reading on the new gauge correspond to boatable and playable flows.
Distances and gradient measured using GIS tools in 2015.