B) Gehrman Creek (Hwy.169) to Brownstone Falls (1.8 miles)

The first three quarters of a mile of this reach are flat, followed by some drops which may be run with caution. Take-out before the footbridge on a trail in Copper Falls State Park. Scout this location well while setting shuttle (before putting on). The ledge drops by the bridge (the "Tyler Fork Cascades") lead swiftly into Brownstone Falls (29'). May 2, 2002: One of the area's best paddlers was severely injured in a run attempt of Brownstone Falls. This drop has a steep, complicated entry in which the paddler lost momentum, resulting in a vertical descent of the falls. At the base of the drop, bedrock extends into the curtain. The paddler struck this rock with sufficient force to cause compound fracture of both ankles. Extrication/evacuation from the gorge was a many hours long ordeal. Even with a good launch here, the pool at the base is not particularly deep and would require a highly controlled angle of entry to avoid injury.