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Whitewater timing varies with scouting, portages, and group pace. Use as a planning baseline.
Description
This is a long, challenging run that cuts through a deep, roadless canyon. There is no cell phone coverage, and given the sheer rhyolite cliffs, evacuation on foot to the canyon rim is often impossible. Therefore, anyone attempting this section should be highly skilled and likewise fully prepared for any and all contingencies.
The first five miles downstream from Danskin bridge are characterized by swift-moving water through majestic landscapes punctuated by two pastoral ranches, which are located on river-left.
Beyond the second ranch, look for a conical rock formation high on the river-left ridge. This is the Witch's Hat, and it roughly marks the entrance to the canyon proper.
The section that follows is a series of Class II and III, read and run rapids that require some basic moves between holes, rocks, and strainers. The exceptions to this are Raspberry (Class III), Buffalo Creek (Class IV), and Fiddler (Class III). Each of the aforementioned rapids have the possibility of dangerous strainers and/or pin hazards. Scouting is recommended and achievable for all via trails located on river-left.
Be advised: a swim on any of these rapids is potentially deadly – they are long, shallow, and have known pin hazards. Likewise, with Anderson Ranch Dam being bottom-released, the water in the canyon stays very cold throughout the summer months.
The shuttle through Prairie is approximately one hour. Local shuttle service is available.