Best Raft for Richland/ Hailstone Runs?

[hollohead]

Need advise on what kind and size of raft would be best suited for runs on the Hailstone and Richland. Tired of missing big runs on first day after big rain. This group is never at a loss of words, so any thoughts?

[Tim Eubanks]

Just did Richland yesterday at 4' in a Puma, two paddlers, loads of fun. Others will weigh in. I've done the Hailstone in the PUma, R3'd with two smallish teenagers, also lots of fun, have rowed and paddle rafted Richland in Super Pumas. Paddle rafted R4 Richland at 5' in a 14' Avon. Big fun.

[hollohead]

that sounds like a blast, anybody ever run inflatable kayaks down the hailstone , like and Aire force?

[Tim Eubanks]

How do those things do on bigger drops? As long as they don't crumple, can't see why they would not work.

The thing about paddle rafting is that you need as least one partner willing to jump in with you. If you have an oar frame, its all you. Somebody on the trip will have to be willing to help you get the raft into and out of the creek, of course.

[hollohead]

well, I think I'm gonna give it a shot next time it comes up. I have never done the Hailstone, and am determined to get it done this year even if it means going in an IK.

[Tim Eubanks]

well, I think I'm gonna give it a shot next time it comes up. I have never done the Hailstone, and am determined to get it done this year even if it means going in an IK.

Get an early start, don't stop for long, make sure you have folks along who know the creek. Take a headlamp. Take a pump with you, prolly a repair kit as well. Enjoy. Don't forget to look up!

[hollohead]

yea, thats for sure Tim, hooking up with someone is a must, hopefully it will run a bunch this season, Thanks.

[Tim Eubanks]

Just a thought, I did the Hailstone in my canoe a couple years back and I think the level was 4.5 when we took off. So don't think its too low based on the Ozark Whitewater page recommendations. Just don't waste time. Seems like it took us 3 hours.

[Stewart Noland]

Ditto what Tim said. A couple of other options are a Maravia Spider and a 12 - 14 foot NRS Otter (I think). All of these can and have been paddled and rowed on Richland and the Hailstone. The key to these boats, besides control, is that they are somewhat narrow. Shredders and the smaller Star rafts have also been on these runs. As Tim said, you need to trade up much above 5 feet on Richland, and from a safety standpoint, this is a good rule to observe.

[hollohead]

Tim, 3 hours to run the Hailstone at 4.5 in a canoe? I thought it took a lot longer?

[Tim Eubanks]

Tim, 3 hours to run the Hailstone at 4.5 in a canoe? I thought it took a lot longer?

That's my recollection. I'll check the log book this evening. We did not stop to play, didn't spend more than 15 minutes for lunch, did not have any swims or pins or other rescue issues. Just bombed down.