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Seeking info on Cowpasture and Jackson for mid May
Posted: Thu May 07, 2015 5:41 am
by outdoorjack
We are heading out on a two week adventure starting at Douthat State Park (15-18 May) and then moving south along the mountains ending up at the Okefenokee swamp area (23-25 May). I am looking for anyone that has knowledge of the Cowpasture or Jackson Rivers for sheparded novice 1 day routes for while we are in the Douthat area. We also welcome anyone to join us but aren't certain of the exact day (weather dependent). I have seen the write-ups in virginiarivers.org and have the Classic Virginia Rivers book. Thanks for any info.
Posted: Thu May 07, 2015 8:56 pm
by allsky7
Gathright Dam to Petticoat Junction is a good float. Paddled that section many times from 250 up to 1500+ cfs. The rapid just below the dam is II (II+) depending on level but it is easy to skip if you like. Other than this one rapid......it is pretty much a class I (I+) paddle. There are several public access points between Gathright and Petticoat if you want to shorten the trip. The summer releases from the dam 250-300 ish will give you enough water to get downstream but it will be bumpy in a few places. To me the dam release water is delightfully refreshing on a hot summer day but keep in mind that it is chilly (50 something I believe) Dress accordingly. The link below is a good resource as well. Have fun!
Steve
http://www.alleghanyhighlandsblueway.co ... he-blueway
Thanks for the info.
Posted: Sun May 10, 2015 7:10 pm
by outdoorjack
If conditions are right we should hit it next week Sat or Sun
Steve
Posted: Mon May 11, 2015 11:39 am
by paddlin_bill
From Low Moor on the Jackson to Iron Gate on the James is a 10 mile I/I+ float with a class II toward the end. We just did it on Saturday at 828 cfs and it was enjoyable. We had a beginner with us and he swam at the bottom of the II.
I've done the Cowpasture once in early spring a few years ago. Don't remember where we put in, but we took out on the James at Iron Gate. I'll have to see if I have the water level for that trip.
-Bill
Posted: Mon May 11, 2015 5:16 pm
by allsky7
Griffith Ford is the usual put in for the Cowpasture to Iron Gate take out on the James. One class II ledge quarter mile or so from the put in.....run far river right at lower levels. The remainder of this run is pretty much I (I+) Not sure about best levels. Dennis is the resident Cow expert.....maybe he will chime in.
Steve