Gauge Conditions

Dolores River near Bedrock, Co. Upstream Primary

Runnable: 800.0 – 5,000.0 CFS

Acceptable flow range for rafts - other crafts may enjoy flows outside this range ((See Dolores 2011 Flow-Evaluation Report for more information).

Data from American Whitewater & USGS

Photo

Photo courtesy of American Whitewater

Description

Paradox Canyon Rapid features a technical boulder garden with multiple potential lines that require precise boat positioning and quick maneuvering. The rapid's center channel contains a series of staggered rocks creating small but powerful hydraulics that can easily catch an unwary paddler, with the recommended route involving a left-of-center approach that threads between larger midstream obstructions. Paddlers should scout carefully and be prepared for quick direction changes, as the rapid's gradient and rock configuration can create unexpected cross-currents and lateral waves.