Cossatot this weekend

[bryden06]

I have been wanting to run the Cossatot from 246 through to Highway 4 for some time...and I was wondering if this weekend will be the best time. I've been watching the flow data and now am wondering if the river will be too big for me and my paddling partner.

I have been running easy (Class II) stuff for a long time and have lately been wanting to take it to the next level. I have my roll down, but haven't really had to use it in true "combat" situations unless I stage the roll.

Is the river going to be too big after all this rain for a first time run, given I have some time under my belt? I'd feel better if I knew there would be more people out there that might be around to run safety...will the Cossatot be crowded this weekend with skilled boaters?

Thanks for the insight!

Todd

[Jim Krueger]

Todd,

You should also post your questions on the gereral page as it
hosts most of the WW posts. From the section of the river you're interested in, I think also includes the falls, class IV-V.
I'm sure you'll get some good info from folks who paddle it.

Best Regards
Jim

[Jim E]

Todd,

Hard to tell this soon what the levels for the weekend will be.

If you have been running class II, I'd suggest you and your partner running from hwy. 246 to Ed Banks bridge and pull out there if you don't have any other support/safety boats. Below Ed Banks you'll encounter Zig-zag and then the Esses. Some challenging, big stuff. There were several first timers with full support running it last Sat. The banks of the Esses were lined with safety boats and throw ropes. Some needed it and some didn't.
Even with support, I would think it best for ya'll to pull out at the fall's campground and not attempt the falls or anything below. Hike down the into the falls and watch other boaters for awhile. I ran the falls a couple of weekends ago but haven't been below to hwy. 278 (hwy. 4 renamed) in several years. There are a couple more class IV rapids through there too.
There might not be too many folks out this weekend as many will be at White Water School being held on the Mulberry River. A pretty big event.


There will be a Cossatot First Timers Run in May with full support...if there is water!!! Check out the info here