Colorado Rafting International Blog

Spotlight On: Siang River Expedition

admin — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 19:04:56 GMT

Siang River, India

Experience the mystique of Himalayan India, the intimate secrets of a little-known Indo-Tibetan culture, the thrill of whitewater exploration, and the comfort of world class service with Global Descents!

The Siang is known as the Tsang-Po in Tibet and after it merges with the Lohit and the Dibang in Assam it becomes the Brahmaputra. The river is steeped in legend and history. Only recently opened to foreigners, the remote north-eastern province of Arunachal Pradesh provides the backdrop for our 10-day expedition. And an expedition it is in every sense of the word!

This legendary river-system was only fully explored in 2003 by a team of National Geographic-sponsored kayakers. We begin our descent of the Siang just inside the border with Tibet. Many villagers in this region have only seen pictures of foreigners, let alone rafts, kayaks, lifejackets, and helmets. It is not unusual to see members of the Mishmi tribe with their ornamental, feathered head-dresses carrying hatchets known as "daos".

This is tribal India, and a Global Descents expedition down the Siang is the only way to explore it! The Siang River Expedition mixes action-packed whitewater with pristine pools, scenic side hikes, and captivating culture.

We begin our expeditions with a flight to Dibrugarh, Assam, followed by a ferry ride up the Brahmaputra, and a road trip to the put-in town of Yingkiong, overlooking the Siang. High altitude tea-plantations, hikes, and cultural immersion are all on the menu. A seven-day rafting trip from Yingkiong to Pasighat ensues, plunging through exciting rapids and maneuvering through magnificent hydraulics.

Our Siang River Expedition culminates in an escorted ferry-ride across the massive main-Brahmaputra to the Assamese town of Dibrugarh. Here guests catch dream-laden return flights to New Delhi. Siang river trips are available November through April, with the ideal season being the months of November and December. Visit the Global Descents web site for more info, trip itinerary and pricing.

Patagonia Part II: InternationalRivers.org

admin — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 05:21:00 GMT

From www.internationalrivers.org:

Tell Home Depot to protect Patagonia's Rivers!

The Patagonia Campaign aims to support the Chilean people's fight against plans to dam two of Chile's most powerful and pristine rivers, the Baker and Pascua Rivers. Electricity from these dams would be sent thousands of kilometers north to serve Chile’s biggest cities and its mammoth copper industry. The transmission lines for that electricity would require one of the world's longest clearcuts--much of it through untouched temperate rainforests of a type found nowhere else on the planet outside Patagonia. (Click here for more details about the rivers, dam plans and transmission lines.)

International Rivers wants the world to know Patagonia’s rivers—and to keep them wild—unlike the huge companies that want to dam them. So, with much help from our passionate Chilean friends who have been fighting dams in their home country for many years, we have launched new pressure tactics against the companies involved in the proposed dams.

Recently we organized an expedition to walk alongside the Pascua and know first-hand what’s at stake for this river, and the life that depends on it. We hope you'll read the full story of what we found. The Pascua is one of the most pristine and unknown rivers on the planet. It is a rip-roaring, roller-coaster of a river with rugged, impassable canyons and unsurvivable Class 6+ whitewater.

To keep the Pascua wild is just one of the many reasons we oppose plans to dam the Baker and Pascua rivers. You can begin to learn more by watching our 3-minute slide show. The dams would displace families, disrupt livelihoods and spoil tourism that brings local income. Transmission lines and reservoirs would destroy temperate rainforests unique to Patagonia. The transmission lines would divide many Chilean communities and several national parks. Victims of these dams would include critically endangered species such as the huemul deer, a Chilean national symbol.

Patagonian Rivers Threatened

admin — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 18:53:00 GMT

Excerpted from "Action Alert - Don't Dam Patagonia" by Rick Ridgeway and Lisa Pike, Patagonia Environmental Affairs, www.patagonia.com

Patagonia: It truly is one of the world’s last unspoiled natural treasures - wild, vast and rich in its unique attributes and biodiversity.
As we write to you, an environmental study is undergoing review in Chile for a massive hydroelectric project that would dam two of Patagonia’s wild and pristine rivers, the Baker and the Pascua. The Baker River is the largest remaining wild river in Chile and runs right along the edge of the proposed 650,000-acre Patagonia National Park that we are helping to create. Damming the Baker would flood portions of this new park and hobble tourism that has just begun to bring new sources of income to the area's small, traditional communities. The Pascua River is today a virtually untouched haven for wildlife that would, if dammed, be almost totally destroyed. Just as damaging, a 2,450-km chain of huge power-line towers is being proposed to transmit electricity to the north. The effects of this project would permanently blemish and scar an enormous swath of the spectacular Patagonia region.

Less destructive alternative energy sources are available. And the Chilean government has recently become fully aware of the significant tourism revenue opportunities that would be lost if plans for the dams and transmission lines move forward.

Despite this knowledge, and the numerous (though vastly understated) environmental impacts of the project disclosed in the dam company HidroAysen's study just now undergoing review, the Chilean government has all but pre-approved the project. So we've partnered with International Rivers (IR) to illustrate another potential loss to Chile if HidroAysen's plans move forward: fewer U.S. customers for Chilean products.

In September, International Rivers began asking consumers to sign postcards that ask The Home Depot to stop doing business with two large Chilean manufacturers of wood products, both of whom are heavily involved in the dams project. International Rivers is collecting these signed postcards and sending bunches of them daily to The Home Depot. For more info or to take action online visit the International Rivers Web site.

Cotahuasi River

admin — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 21:54:00 GMT

Our recent Cotahuasi River expedition was truly an unforgettable adventure. The Cotahuasi carves the second deepest canyon in the world (the first, the Colca, is a just few hundred miles away) and snakes through an arid landscape on the southern coast of . First run by raft in 2000, only a few expeditions have descended into its chasm and braved its mighty river. In June, our group of Global Descents adventurers took the plunge and conquered its rollercoaster of spitting Class V rapids.

Beginning our journey in the “ White City ” of Arequipa , where streets are dotted with mouthwatering cevicherias and the impressive colonial architecture shows ingenuity in its giant blocks of volcanic ash, we set off on the two day drive through ’s barren costal plains. Our first night was spent in the community of Chuquibamba, a convenient mid-way point to our final destination, the town of Cotahuasi . Our second day’s drive took us over a 15,500-foot pass, along the flanks of the massive volcano Coropuña. Lama, vicuña, and alpaca were scattered through the high plains, grazing beneath glaciers and snowfields as our travel van cruised along the wide-open road. That night was spent in Cotahuasi, sitting just above the gaping canyon rim and surrounded by waterfalls, rock walls and views of the distant peaks.

The next morning we drove to the end of the road, loaded burros with our gear and, with a quick handshake to our driver, officially began our six-day river adventure. It was an eight-hour hike into the depths of the Cotahuasi Canyon and to our first riverside camp near the community of Velinga. The next morning was the final preparation – rigging the rafts, swim tests and a safety talk that confirmed serious whitewater lay ahead.

After lunch we climbed in the rafts and were off. Immediately the rapids were non-stop and steep, and we aggressively punched through Class III-IV rapids with intermittent Class II-III rapids to keep us busy. It was good preparation for the first big Class V drop of the trip, the frighteningly-named Broken Neck Rapid, a long 3-part rapid wrapping around a corner and out of sight from a possible scout. After making a plan, we pushed off to run this first major drop. Wow! Everyone survived, and from that moment on truly understood that we had embarked on a serious whitewater expedition with demanding whitewater – and lots of it.

The following days brought much more of the same – long, steep, and technical rapids, one after the other. Rapids that pinch down so narrow the boats don’t fit through and continuous rollercoaster rides through inner-gorges… challenging, exhilarating, and unforgettable whitewater like nowhere else.

With all the excitement had by day, night brought rest, good food and unparalleled beauty. Camping under the stars on flat platforms amongst long-forgotten Inca walls gave everyone a unique sense of discovery and exploration. We found Inca and pre-Inca ruins and neck-kinking views up toward the canyon’s rim. Though we were on a whitewater trip, we could have used extra days to explore more of the ruins and burial sites along the way. Incredibly, the sites seemed untouched as if they had survived hundreds of years without notice. No footprints, no signs of disturbance, not even a hint of anthropological studies! Interestingly, the trails that once were used by the Inca to run, yes run!, fish fresh from the Pacific Ocean to their rulers high in the mountains eventually washed away in the torrential coastal rains and rockslides, isolating these lost and forgotten ruins.

Downriver, where the Cotahuasi confluences with the Moran River, its character changes, widening and slowing down, with rapids spaced further apart and the views expanding as the walls recede toward the ocean. Feeling the usual adventurer conflict – so happy to have accomplished such an expedition and so sad to leave – we left the Cotahuasi with a two-hour 4x4 drive through small dusty communities to the coast and then another five hours back to Arequipa and our victory dinner. Cold beer never tasted so good!

Every river trip has its own character and magic, whether it’s a half-day Colorado Rafting float on a local waterway or a three-week luxury trip down the Grand Canyon . But the allure of the unknown, the excitement of discovery, and the challenge of demanding and continuous whitewater are true and strong on the Cotahuasi. Nowhere else on Earth is like it. A word to the wise: It is not for everyone. But if you long for true unequalled adventure, the Cotahuasi should be your next trip. I hope to see you this coming season. HARVEY

Thank you AVA Rafting

Heather Kattelus — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:10:09 GMT

Just wanted to say thanks for a making our trip out to Denver the
best trip ever!!!!!!!!!!! We never thought it would be that
great ! Thanks again Idaho Springs!

The angry pirate and mates

The Numbers

Heather Kattelus — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 20:41:16 GMT

I just rafted on The Numbers this weekend and it was one of the best trips I have been on this year. The water was a little low, but that made it more technical and challenging. What a thrill!!! I am already planning to book another trip this weekend.

Ideal Time for Colorado White Water Rafting

Heather Kattelus — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 21:28:14 GMT

So the water levels have decided to drop and allow all the rivers in Colorado to fully open up for some sweet Colorado River Rafting action! If you are wanting an adrenaline pumping white water rafting experience or just simply want to take your family on a nice float trip, then check out what Clear Creek, Colorado River, and the Arkansas River have to offer you. Colorado rafting offers trips for all experience levels!

Got plans for the 4th?

Heather Kattelus — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 16:01:35 GMT

4th of July is right around the corner and what better way to spend the holiday than in the Rocky Mountains. A camping trip with family or friends would be perfect. Starting the day out with some early hiking or even better some white water rafting, then relaxing by the camp fire or maybe going on the sunset horseback ride and watching fireworks! Whatever your plans are for the 4^th, hopefully everyone can come out and go rafting at least once this summer!

New Office!!

Heather Kattelus — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 14:42:14 GMT

We have a new office in Kremmling now! It is right off main street directly across from the Pink Coffee Cup! We can now offer float trips so everyone should come and check it out! The office is new and it looks great inside! Book a trip and let us know what you think!

Hot weather coming!

Heather Kattelus — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 15:02:00 GMT

The weather for this next week is going to be nice and hot! This is a good thing for some people but for rafting, it could be bad. The warm weather will cause some more of the snow caps to melt which in turn will kick up the river even more. Some of the class V trips are already closed but hopefully with the warm weather comes even better rafting! It should make for awesome trips! I can't wait to go on mine in a couple of days! Hope everyone comes out for some great rafting!

First timer!

Heather Kattelus — Fri, 23 May 2008 23:24:06 GMT

For my first rafting trip my friend and I went on the Browns Canyon Express. At first I was really excited cause I had never done it before. As we were driving to the outpost I became little scared at first but got over it. Other than our feet going numb from being so cold, we had a blast on the river. The ladies on the raft with us mad the trip so much more fun. I am ready to go again but next time I’m doing the Numbers trip!

More Snow!!

Nathan Toothaker — Wed, 14 May 2008 21:49:07 GMT

Colorado white water rafting just got another boost yesturday. Anybody living in the rockie montains will already know that we recived another 12-14 inches of snow yesterday. It just dosnt stop! The snow put a bit of a damper on the trip that we had planed for yesturday, but its only going to help with the rest of the season. Are you excited???

Colorado River in good shape this year

Heather Kattelus — Thu, 08 May 2008 23:14:26 GMT

Here is an artical from the Summit Daily new reguarding the up and coming water for this summer! I know we keep saying it but it really is going to be an amazing white water rafting year!

Colorado River in good shape this year

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By BOB BERWYN
summit daily news
May 8, 2008

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Colorado River in good shape this year
Long-term issues won’t go away after one wet winter, water experts say
By BOB BERWYN
summit daily news

Summit County, CO Colorado
SUMMIT COUNTY — The Colorado River Basin is in good shape this year. Runoff will fill all reservoirs in the upper basin in the next few months.

Green Mountain Reservoir should fill by mid-July and hold steady through the summer recreation months, said the Bureau of Reclamation’s Ron Thomasson, outlining summer water operations during Wednesday’s state of the river meeting in Frisco.

Dillon Reservoir will also fill. In fact, Denver Water is facing a potential problem of very high inflows during peak runoff.

Combined, the Blue River, the Snake River and Tenmile Creek could pour as much as 3,000 cubic feet per second into the reservoir during peak runoff, although odds are the peak flows will stay a bit lower than that, at around 2,200 cfs, according to resource engineer Bob Steger.

Even at that rate, Denver Water will be challenged to maintain a balance between maintaining water for boating levels in Dillon Reservoir, meeting downstream demand and trying to limit flooding downstream of the reservoir, Steger said.

To make room for the runoff, Denver Water started dropping the level of the reservoir earlier than usual. The Roberts Tunnel, which diverts water from the West Slope to the South Platte drainage, was just turned on a few days ago, and Denver Water is currently letting about 500 cfs flow out of the reservoir and into the Lower Blue.

In any case, the plentiful runoff promises a good rafting and kayaking season downstream of the reservoir.

Conservation
Trying to address West Slope concerns about increase diversions to the Front Range, Denver Water’s Melissa Elliott described the utility’s aggressive conservation efforts, aimed at cutting total water use in the service area by 22 percent by 2016.

Right now, Denver Water customers use 211 gallons per person, per day. If Denver Water meets its goal, that number would drop to 165 gallons per person, per day, she said.

Denver Water board member George Beardsley said there are discussions about a wide-ranging effort to to fund protection for the Colorado River watershed by charging customers a fee that would help with forest health projects. The talks are at an early stage, and Beardsley said Denver Water would only consider the fees if other major water providers on the Front Range join in the effort.

Global look
Colorado River Water Conservation District manager Eric Kuhn took a global look at water issues by explaining how climate change could shift the water supply picture and set the stage for increasing conflicts about the resource. By some predictions, warming temperatures could increase precipitation in areas that already are wet, and exacerbate dry conditions in other parts of the world, he said.

A long-term drought in Australia is part of the reason for a current world-wide wheat shortage, explaining that Australian farmer, major suppliers of wheat, haven’t been able to deliver a harvest in recent years.

The West Coast city of Perth wants to cap per capita, per day use at 40 gallons, and is close to the target, Kuhn said, indirectly challenging all Colorado water users to be better stewards.

Elliot acknowledged the challenge and said that, once Denver Water eliminates waste — the easy savings — it will take mandatory measures like replacing appliances to save more water.

Questions?
Some audience members asked about overall state growth, and limits to Denver Water’s service area. Other citizens wanted to know how Colorado river water will be split between the upstream mountain states and headwaters, and southwestern desert, where the Colorado’s waters inevitably flow.

All good questions, the panelists replied.

“We can’t grow out, but we can grow up,” Elliot said.

Kuhn put the size of the Colorado River watershed iin context, comparing it to the mid-sized Mohawk River in New York, but explaining that a much larger and widespread area relies on the same-sized Colorado.

He said discussions about how much water the Colorado River system can actually deliver have intensified recently as potential demand from energy production becomes more of a reality.

The answer is unclear, but the growing demand for West Slope water means the resource has to be used more efficiently.

In response to a question from the audience, Kuhn said the idea of a Green Mountain to Dillon Reservoir pumpback is still being explored. In conjunction with a new reservoir somewhere else in the Upper Colorado Basin (Wolcott has been identified as the primary choice), a pipeline between the two reservoirs could make more water available to the West Slope, he said.

The annual State of the River meeting included a short tribute to water commissioner Scott Hummer, who couldn’t attend.

Hummer’s tireless efforts to promote water education included early backing of the State of the River conference, which has become a key forum for water managers, engineers and citizens each year.

The conference was co-sponsored by the Colorado River Watershed Conservation District and the Blue River Watershed Group.

http://www.crwcd.org/

Interesting Article on Summit County's 2008 Winter

Heather Kattelus — Sun, 04 May 2008 15:56:03 GMT

Summit County, CO Colorado
SUMMIT COUNTY — The current snowy weather in Summit County marks the tail end of an active winter storm pattern, but climate specialist Klaus Wolter said there could be more unsettled weather in the weeks ahead.

“I still see a continuation of storms. The storm track is more north, but you’ll still see orographic lifting and cold air,” said Wolter, a Boulder-based researcher with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Wolter anticipates at least a few more waves of wintry weather in Colorado’s mountains.

May snowfall is not unusual in the High Country. The average is 10.9 inches in Breckenridge and 7.4 inches at the Dillon weather site, where Denver Water officials track precipitation and temperatures for the National Weather Service.

Beyond that, the outlook for late spring and early summer is still unclear, Wolter said.
The National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center is calling for for above-average temperatures May through August in the western portion of the Rocky Mountain region.

Early in the season, Wolter said the La Niña weather pattern (colder-than-average sea surface temperatures in the eastern Pacific) increased the chances for a dry winter. The mountain region bucked those odds, but other parts of the forecast region did end up dry, included the northeastern plains of Colorado, Wolter said.

Drought conditions in eastern Colorado have worsened in the past four months, leading the Forest Service to predict an above-average fire potential for that area, as well as for much of the Rocky Mountain region.

Seasonal surplus
The season-long pattern of surplus snow in the mountains continued in April, as weather watcher Rick Bly measured 29.7 inches at his backyard gauge in Breckenridge.

That’s five inches more than the historic average for the month. But for the October-April snowfall season, Bly said 207 inches fell, 55 inches more than the historic average of 152 inches, based on records going back more than a century, making it the seventh-snowiest winter on record.

All that snow melted down to 15.25 inches of water, about 32 percent more than the historic average of 11.5 inches for the six-month period.

Bly said there were 108 days with measurable precipitation this winter, well above the average 63 days.

April snowfall at the Dillon station totaled 18 inches, just slightly more than the average 17.3 inches.

More notable were the weather readings, with both the average daily highs and lows remaining well below normal for the month. The average April maximum temperature was 43.2 degrees, compared to the historic average 47.7 degrees.

The average monthly low was only 11.6 degrees, about six degrees lower than the historic average (17.3 degrees), based on records going back to 1909.

Temperatures at the Dillon weather site only climbed into the 50s nine times during April, with the highest reading, 60 degrees, on April 24.

There were two sub-zero readings early in the month, and nighttime lows dropped below freezing every single night.

The local stats reflect a regional picture of colder-than-average temperatures.

“It was the coldest winter since the late 1970s,” said Wolter. The biggest change was in the average daily highs, Wolter said. The cooler temperatures this winter marked a leveling off of a 30-year trend of warmer-than-average regional readings.

predict peak river flows

Heather Kattelus — Sun, 04 May 2008 15:45:05 GMT

Water experts at the Colorado River Water Conservation District predict peak river flows. With extra snow pack this year, water resource specialists estimating the Colorado River's peak flow near Glenwood Springs could come in at 20,000 cubic feet per second or more. That's more than two times the normal 6,000 to 9,000 cfs peaks the river sees in the middle or end of June.
The Upper Colorado River Basin currently has about 119 percent of the normal water content in its snow-pack, compared to a 30-year average. The Bureau of Reclamation has predicted runoff this year will raise Lake Powell by 30 feet or more. On Thursday, the Colorado River near Glenwood was flowing at around 2,200 cfs, slightly above average.
It’s going to be an awesome year!

Controlled flooding on the Colorado River

Ryan Cole — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 03:45:41 GMT

People all over the world have been going dam crazy for some time now. It is getting harder and harder to find naturally flowing rivers anywhere in the world. Data concludes that, especially in desert climates, controlling the flow and removing the flood stage waters is harmful to the environment. One of the contributing factors is the depletion of natural beaches along the river, which are created by those much needed flood-stage waters. On top of the environmental issues, changing the natural beauty of the original geography is sure to be a heartfelt concern with dams if you have ever been on a river trip.

The USGS conducted an experiment on March 5th, 2008 to attempt recreating the naturally flood waters by opening up the gates of Glen Canyon Dam. For 60 hours, 41,500 cfs (cubic feet/second) blasted downstream. In comparison, the Colorado River in that section is now running a mere 9,000 cfs. We commend you USGS, and hope that the studies yield good results.

Can't wait to get out of the office and on the river!

Nathan Toothaker — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 22:23:49 GMT

I took my first trip down to the Buena Vista area last week, and I was blown away!!! The Colligate mountain range is stunning as a back-drop, and the Arkansas River is beautiful. I moved out to Colorado from Maine , and am going to be a raft guide this summer. I grew up on the rivers on the east coast, but this is by far the most exited I’ve ever been for a summer on the river. Right now, I’m working in the office, booking trips, and talking about rafting all day is killing me! I just keep thinking about that first day on the river. Hope that everybody out there is able to come and join us this summer.

-Nate

WhiteWater Poem

Sydney Michael — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 20:14:07 GMT

Plenty of Hydration on the rivers Mutation

Feel the Temptation of the waters Formation

A perfect place for a Destination Vacation

So what’s with your Hesitation do you need further Explanation?

Just give us a call, one Conversation and we’ll be your Inspiration

All of the Population should feel the Obligation

Feel the Motivation to make a Reservation

In Anticipation for the river’s Annihilation

We can help with your Transportation to begin your Relaxation

Make your Migration to Colorado to seek your Elation

Ignore your Hesitation lifejackets will provide Flotation

You may experience Lactation on the river’s Rotation

Try to avoid Inflammation from foot Irritation

It can lead to heavy Perspiration in a sticky Situation

Please make Donations equal to your trips Duration

No matter what your Occupation run from your Corporation

We thank you for you Consideration we’ll provide the Salvation

Classification of Rapids

Chance Huffman — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 20:12:00 GMT

Class I
Moving water with a few riffles and small waves, few or no obstructions. (This is you if you’re a boy named Sue)

Class II
Easy rapids with waves up to three feet, and wide, clear channels that are obvious without scouting. Some maneuvering required. (If you like long walks on the beach and microwaveable burritos, look no further)

Class III
Rapids with high irregular waves often capable of swamping an open canoe. Narrow passages that often require complex maneuvering. May require scouting from shore. (If phrases like swamping canoe and complex maneuvering scar you, change your name to Sally)

Class IV
Long, difficult rapids with constricted passages that often require precise maneuvering in very turbulent waters. Scouting from shore is often necessary, and conditions make rescue difficult. Generally not possible for open canoes. Boaters in covered canoes and kayaks should be able to Eskimo roll. (If you’re a pregnant middle age woman this trip is for you, but leave the booze at home –surgeon general warning)

Class V
Extremely difficult, long, and very violent rapids with highly congested routes that nearly always must be scouted from shore. Rescue conditions are difficult and there is significant hazard to life in event of mishap. Ability to Eskimo roll is essential for kayaks and canoes. (If you’re a couch potato this is your perfect trip, sitting on couch = sitting in raft, lifting remote = paddling)

Class VI
Difficulties of Class V carried to the extreme of navigability. Nearly impossible and very dangerous. For teams or experts only, after close study and with all precautions taken. (I’m in over my head)

*** WARNING *** - Classification of rapids translation to ability may or may not be true. DO NOT use italicized comments to base your trip on! Talk to a professional

You Don't Want This!

Chance Huffman — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:59:00 GMT

Athlete’s foot

Since water plays a big role in whitewater rafting athlete’s foot is a constant threat to your feet, don’t let it handicap your experience on the trip. Although it may seem minor, it could cause serious irritation leaving you with a tainted whitewater adventure. Athlete's foot causes pain, itching, and burning of the feet and toes. While it is a frustrating problem, a few simple steps can treat this common foot fungus.

If your staying overnight and you plan on taken a shower wear sandals when your using the communal showers (fungi love steamy wet floors)
Change your socks often while it may seem obvious...change into a clean pair! This is a great preventive measure…
Wash your feet! No that soapy foam that washes down from your hair does not do the trick. Scrub em’ good
Keep your feet DRY… talc we keep the sweatiest of feet dry.

Follow these few preventive measures and your time on the river will be more enchanting. And in the words of Chad Floogin "It's not how far you go, i's how go you far"

World Class Whitewater

Kevin Maxie — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 16:11:00 GMT

Well I must say it’s great to be back in the great state of Colorado . Although at the moment, the tons of snow around here makes the miles away from the lush tropical vegetation of the Central Highlands of Costa Rica so much more of a reality. I have just returned from a 3 month kayaking adventure in which I searched out some of the best whitewater in the world. Costa Rica is known for being delightfully rugged which lends itself to a number of water drainages. Although I arrived towards the end of the rainy season, the weather continued well through the new year, giving us amazing whitewater to kayak for months. I was able to kayak all sections of the Pacuare, Lower Peralta and Pascua of the Reventazon, the Pejibaye, and so many other whitewater sections I lose count. It was certainly a blessing and an experience I will never forget. Costa Rica, as well as Colorado River rafting, are just a few of many world class whitewater destinations every river running enthusiast should experience at one time or another.

Can You Handle It?

Chance Huffman — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 15:24:23 GMT

Rafting
Rafting is a sport accomplished while sitting down, but this ain’t no couch surfing. If you’re in a raft, the guide depends on your brute strength for centrifugal movement, meaning forward and reverse strokes on a moment’s notice. And the strokes have to count you can’t be lazy when things get rough (This ain’t your cub scouts jamboree). Since guardrails haven’t been made for rafts, swimming while confined to a lifejacket and in a current of rapids is also a real possibility.

-And in the words of the Great Apache shaman, Running Spirits “Stay Alert, Stay Alive”

The River Speaks!

Sydney Michael — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 20:27:00 GMT

Sittin’ by the river, chewing my bubble gum, waiting for the snow to melt, when the Arkansas River apparently noticed I was jonezin and spoke to me!

“Bring it on” says the river “I am going to be huge this season wit whitewater”

“I am Juan, Juan-wit-de-river, you got nuttin’ on dis” I replied.

“I dig canyons, create pot-holes, and wind my way across your country, nothin’ gets in my way” Bellowed the Arkansas River .

“I ain’t gonna get in the way man, I’m just gonna surf your tongue and wallow over my lost paddles in your eddies. Come on just let me get a taste!”

“Wow Bro, it just ain’t that time yet, you gotta wait till it warms up outside, unless your fixin to get skated by some rocks while freezing in my current”

“Naw fo-sho, I guess I can chill till spring has sprung, yo river when do you think thats gonna happen?”

“Well young sensei, Arkansas Valley Adventures will start up their season May 8^th, they are pretty much the only worthwhile guides out there”

“Are they also known as Colorado Rafting?”

“Why yes they are”

“Do you know how I can contact them so I can book my trip before they fill up all of their best trips?"

“I AM A RIVER, GO FIGURE IT OUT FOR YOURSELF!”

Whitewater

Chance Huffman — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 16:50:10 GMT

This season is going to be one of the most gnarley whitewater seasons with huge snow this winter, start gearing up and getting prepped for the greatest season in Colorado . Summer is full of extreme rafting on our famous Arkansas , hiking, camping, fishing and rock climbing. I hope everyone else is as psyched as I am about the passing winter and the up coming summer.

Let it snow!

Ryan Cole — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 16:33:30 GMT

In Colorado, we love the snow. Sometimes I see the news and they are complaining about the nasty "snow event" moving into town. But I say, "what the hay?" I've got some snowshoes and a big stock of Ramen in my pantry. If everybody is snowed in, I'm a happy guy. Why? Because I plan ahead. All this snow that everybody is complaining about means huge flows in the Summer. So when I have to hike over a 5 foot drift in front of my house to get to the front door; I think, summer's coming in Colorado, so hiking over this 5 foot drift every day means rafting over 10' foot waves in a few months. WooHoo! Bring it old man winter!

Clear Creek Rafting

Ryan Cole — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 05:56:31 GMT

One of the most easily accessible locations for colorado rafting is in Idaho Springs on Clear Creek. This wonderfully constricted creek is only thirty minutes away from the beautiful metropolis of Denver, America's port for mountain adventure. Clear Creek has lower flows than all of the commercial rafting runs in Colorado. But because of the narrow walls that the creek forces itself through, those low flows create Big Water. You have to be on your toes on Clear Creek, both for the fast-paced whitewater and the grazing Big Horned sheep that like to hang out on the hillside just outside of town.

internationally traveled rafting in Colorado

Ryan Cole — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 03:21:41 GMT

There are Rivers to Explore all over the world. Even when you travel out of this state enjoying wonders of afar, you cannot help but think of all of the wonders we have in the beautiful state of Colorado. Rafting in Colorado is only one of the many activities you can enjoy. Soaking in hot springs is one of my favorite things to do. In order for me to get the most enjoyment out of this experience, it is best when it is 10 degrees F or colder, with snow piled up only inches away from the natural hot pools. There is nothing like watching your friends' heads steam in the cold air while you are relaxed and warm in the water. All of the snow around you will melt in the Summer, just in time for rafting.

Zambezi white water rafting

admin — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 05:21:19 GMT

Just came back from Zambia where we ran some huge white water on the Zambezi River. The river gorge is mostly rapid drop pool and the river features are magnificent.

We saw a few crocks but none with any size until the last day. The locals were great and travel was easy. Shuttles to and from the river are easy to set up and accommodations and food were good.

We went out with a great group of guys on a seven day trip. Matt Gontam was the trip leader from Global Descents and he did an incredible job with meals and logistics.

The trip was amazing and I recommend it to anyone who loves big water and warm temps!

Duke Bradford

Zambezi River Rafting, Zambia

admin — Mon, 02 Apr 2007 19:48:00 GMT

In October of 2006, I headed back to the world’s hottest adventure tourism destination, Livingstone, Zambia, for Global Descents’ Zambezi River Expedition. We were treated to the best trip down the Zambezi I have yet to experience. The water levels, weather, and our group were absolutely phenomenal! The afternoon of our first day, after everyone had arrived, we headed straight to the top of Victoria Falls where we boarded the African Princess for a sunset cruise on the Upper Zambezi River. Introductions were made and everyone got to know each other over cocktails and numerous appearances by the locals…hippos! As the sun dipped below the horizon we were back at the dock and on our way to the hotel for a big steak and pasta dinner. Everyone seemed very excited as I passed out dry bags and went over the following day’s itinerary for our departure on the river expedition. A late night dip in the pool ended the night and it was off to bed. The following morning we were swimming and playing in the natural pool below Victoria Falls. Almost everyone swam all of the way under the thundering waterfall. After a nice lunch, the whitewater was on! Each time I peel out of the put-in eddy on the Zambezi, I get goose bumps knowing that the best whitewater on earth is waiting for me downstream. On this particular trip, we had a group that paddled very well together. Immediately, we were able to run the biggest lines on the river. Those first two days are just jam packed of huge rapids and waves. Highlights on this trip were too numerous to mention. When we got to #4, the crew started to feel a little bit at home with the massive rapids of the ‘Zam’. But, it wasn’t until we dropped into #5 that I saw so many jaws drop and as we emerged in the pool below. Everyone shook the water from their faces to reveal ear to ear smiles. From that point on, this group couldn’t have encountered a wave too big. It was nothing but Good Clean Fun!!! Cliff jumping with the locals on night 1 was a blast. Our big beach party on night 2 was unforgettable. Drew, I have the evidence! What a great sleep we all had in our secluded cove on night 3 after the biggest rapids of the trip, Upper and Lower Moemba. On night 4 we found the oasis camp at Asleep at the Wheel where we were able to cool off by floating around the eddy in front of camp with cocktails…on ice!! And of course our final night on the river, enjoying great stories and readings from Harvey and Fish and trying to finish off the last of the ice next to the huge bonfire, built by one of our safety kayakers, Gian Marco. On our final day, the hippo, crocodile, baboon, and bird sightings were incredible. Seeing the 14’ crock and the goliath heron take off 20’ from us were highlights I won’t forget. As everyone loaded the helicopter at the take-out, the guides and I loaded the truck. We all met a few hours later at Taita Falcon Lodge. The comfort, service, and location of this place make it the best way I know of to end a river expedition. Long, hot showers, cocktails and a magnificent dinner on the deck over looking the river. I just couldn’t have wished for a better trip and left me itching for next year. We will be back in Zambia next Sept.-Nov. Our late Oct. trip is already full and we are looking forward to filling our earlier dates throughout the spring. Come join us on this adventure of a lifetime. The Zambezi is an absolutely world class expedition! Cheers! Matt Gontram Global Descents www.globaldescents.com