Kayaking From Natural Bridge

CHERYL'S NEWS FROM CAMP WEBEGONE

(Editor's Note: For those who don't know, whitewater rapids are rated on a scale of I to VI, with VI being the most difficult.)

Rich and I have been told that the stretch of river at Natural Bridge would be rated a level four rafting difficulty. 

• Class IV (advanced): Intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring precise boat handling in turbulent water. Depending on the character of the river, it may feature large, unavoidable waves and holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvers under pressure. A fast, reliable eddy turn may be needed to initiate maneuvers, scout rapids, or rest. Rapids may require “must make” moves above dangerous hazards. Scouting may be necessary the first time down. Risk of injury to swimmers is moderate to high, and water conditions may make self-rescue difficult. Group assistance for rescue is often essential but requires practiced skills. For kayakers, a strong roll is highly recommended.  Wikipedia

We will not be trying this.

One day, while cleaning at the day-use center, a car with a kayak attached to the top arrived. Rich and I have been waiting so that we could watch someone kayak the Rouge River from Natural Bridge. Rich talked with the kayak's owner, who said he would be kayaking the river solo. 

When trying the rapids, folks generally launch from one of two places: from a rock outcrop that is under the footbridge, and from Natural Bridge. This kayaker would be launching from Natural Bridge - the more difficult of the two. 

His first task (after some warm up stretches), was to tote all his gear on a 10 minute walk up to Natural Bridge, climb over a fence, go down a bank, cross the Natural Bridge, and then head down a rock bank to the launch site.

 

He then sets his kayak on the rock. More warm up stretching. Then he gets in his kayak. Launching is pushing the kayak so it slides off the rock into the water. The Rouge moves swiftly here, so he has to be ready to quickly navigate between two rocks. And then it's right to the falls. The kayaker said that after this first bit, the rest of the river is a piece of cake.

These are two photos taken of the portion of the Rouge that we watched him kayak. The photos were taken from the footbridge. 

This is the upriver section.

And this is the down river section.

It was really impressive to watch him. And, of course, the kayaker had a lot of fun.

Cheryl