JAMES RIVER 5 DAY CANOE TREK - imgix
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JAMES RIVER 5 DAY CANOE TREK 5 DAY WHITE WATER CANOE CAMPING EXPERIENCE * 50 MILER - Truly one of the best river trips in the Mid Atlantic to get this award. * TONS OF RAPIDS - Trip includes over 120 rapids to keep it fun, but still suitable for canoe camping. * VERY SCENIC - Stunning Blue Ridge Mountain views the entire length of the trip. * A TRUE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE - Compared to other more developed rivers. * NO CANOE PORTAGES REQUIRED - Paddle 63 miles without stopping. * UPPER JAMES RIVER WATER TRAIL - So cool it was made a Scenic Blueway Trail. * KAYAK THE JAMES RIVER GORGE - Mix up the fun and kayak the last day. Paddle 63 miles of the historic upper James River in Virginia from the headwaters at Iron Gate to the Snowden Dam. Experience over 100 class I rapids, and 20 challenging class II rapids, and the infamous Balcony Falls (Class III) rapid that can be paddled around. Bring your fishing pole and try your hand at fishing along the way. Camp nightly at wilderness river side campsites locations along the way. Groups have option to switch to kayaks for the last day with advance notice. Add an optional river clean up service project and this trek meets the "50 MILER" award requirements.
JAMES RIVER 5 DAY CANOE TREK SCHEDULE
DAY 1
• Troops typically arrive at TRO arrive by 9 AM
• TRO will conduct safety brief and collect TRO release forms
• Load up and drive to Iron Gate boat landing.
• Camp at Gala campground
• Paddle length 10.5 miles / 4.5 hours
DAY 2
• Paddle from Gala to Narrow Passage Campground at Horseshoe Bend
• Paddle length 17 miles / 6 hours, longest paddle day of the trip, recommend
early start
• Includes 10 mile stretch seeing only one house and lots of cliff views
DAY 3
• Paddle Horseshoe Bend campground to Arcadia with stop in Buchanan 15
miles total paddle
• Paddle length to Buchanan: 9 miles / 3 - 4 hours
• Resupply in Buchanan: water, ice, trash, laundry services, charge phones, etc.
• Paddle length Buchanan to Arcadia Campground: 6 miles, 2 ½ hours
DAY 4
• Paddle Arcadia Campground to Wilderness Canoe
• Paddle length 12 miles / 5 hours
• Camp Wilderness Canoe Campground, camping fee paid by TRO
• TRO staff will swap out kayaks / canoes in the evening
• TRO staff will staff will stage vehicle for gear pickup, allowing day 5 paddle
with no camping gear in boats.
DAY 5
• 8:30 am pack camping gear in TRO vehicle
• Launch by around 9 am, for a 1 PM pickup at Snowden Take Out
• Paddle length 7 miles, 3 ½ to 4 hours due to difficulty
• Drive back to Buchanan typically by 2:15 PM
RIVER CLEAN UP SERVICE PROJECT Twin River Outfitters is happy to assist any Scout Troop participating on a 50 miler trip to conduct a “RIVER CLEAN UP SERVICE PROJECT” as part of the 50 miler award qualification. 50 – Miler service project conditions: “During the time on the trail or waterway, complete a minimum of 10 hours each of group work on projects to improve the trail, springs, campsite, portage or wilderness area. If after checking with recognized authorities, it is not possible to complete 10 hours each of group work on the trail, a similar project may be done in the unit's home area.” This is an optional activity done entirely at the choice of each participating troop. To assist in the service project TRO will: * Provide trash bags * Pick up garbage left at the following boat landings: * Tuesday: Craig Creek, bag should be left in upper parking lot * Wednesday: Horseshoe bend boat landing, & Buchanan TRO store * Thursday: Wilderness Canoe campground dumpster * Friday: Snowden take out * Drop garbage bags or debris at public boat landings. Please call TRO at * 540-261-7334 and let us know each time you make a trash drop. * Make sure bags or debris is left clear of boat launch site, visible but out of the way Comments: * Safety first!!! * Don’t pick up any trash in a class II rapid or near any unsafe water * Don’t pick up anything sharp or rusty items
TRIP LEADER INFO
The Outfitter provides the following for the trip
* Detailed safety & river trip orientation
* Canoes / Life Jackets / paddles (Personal PDF's allowed)
* 5 gallon water containers
* Commercial grade NRS dry bags (3 per canoe - 1 large & 2 medium)
* 1 dry box per troop
* 1 complete set of detailed river maps per troop
* Bailers
Specialized troop gear list (In addition to normal camping gear list)
* Sleeping pads (most of campsites are on gravel)
* Cooler for ice (not wider than 34") Ice available Mon,Wed,& Thurs
* Footwear 2 sets, 1 pair for camp, 1 pair for river (River shoes, sandals, etc)
* Folding camping chair (Plenty of room in canoe for such comfort items)
* Fishing pole / tackle / license (optional)
* Folding saw (fire wood and strainers)
*
Cell phone (minimum 1 per troop), Verizon and Sprint seem to work the best,
coverage available about 95% of trip. Bring your charger and charge your
phone half way through the trip when you stop at Buchanan.
* 1 Throw rope per troop (optional)
* Small folding shovel for digging cat holes
* Ample supply of sunscreen and hats, & sunglasses for troop
Comments:
*
Outfitter Liability waivers required for all participants. The waivers will
be collected during orientation by the outfitter. Form available online at
canoevirginia.net.
* There is some down time each day, so plan accordingly (fishing, outdoor skills,
games, white water merit badge, ect.)
* Troops are welcome to contact outfitter at 540-261-7334 with any questions.
JAMES RIVER BASIN CANOE LIVERY
D.B.A. Twin River Outfitters
653 Lowe Street, Buchanan, VA 24066
Phone: 540-261-7334 Internet: canoevirginia.net Email: tro@canoevirginia.net
PARTICIPANT RELEASE OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT
****READ BEFORE SIGNING****
Participant Name
Address Phone Number
City, State ZIP Email
In consideration of being allowed to participate in any way in the program, related events and activities, I the undersigned, acknowledge, appreciate,
and agree that:
1. The risk of injury from the activities involved in this program is significant including the potential for permanent paralysi s and
death.
2. I KNOWINLY AND FREELY ASSUME ALL SUCH RISK, both know and unknown, EVEN IF ARISING FROM THR
NELIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES or others, and assume full responsibility for my participation.
3. I willingly agree to comply with the terms and conditions for participation. If I observe any unusual significant hazard duri ng my
presence or participation, I will remove myself from participation and bring such to the attention of the nearest official immediately.
4. I, for myself and on behalf of my heirs, assigns, personal representatives and next of kin, HEREBY, RELEASE, INDEMNIFY,
AND HOLD HARMLESS THE JAMES RIVER BASIN CANOE LIVERY, LTD, i ts officers, officials, agents and/or employees,
other participants, sponsors, advertisers, and if applicable, owners and lessors of land or premises used to conduct the event
(RELEASEES), from any and all claims, demands, losses, and liability arising out of or related to any INJURY, DISABILITY OR
DEATH I may suffer, or loss or damage or property, WHETHER ARISING FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES OR
OTHERWISE, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
5. I will wear my life jack at all times while on the water and will comply with all Federal, State and Local laws. I understand that
consumption of alcoholic beverages is unsafe for any water activity and illegal in public (Which includes on the river and at public boat
landings), and not approved by the Livery. The Livery will refuse service to anyone who is intoxicated with NO REFUNDS MADE.
6. I hearby agree to return all equipment at the mutually agreed set time, date, location in the same condition as it was receiv ed. I also
agree that the boat will only be taken on the waters agreed to prior to the trip.
7. I agree to report all damage or lost items immediately at the end of the trip and pay for them at that time, plus any collection or
attorney’s fees that the Livery incurs.
8. Adopt-A-Stream Program volunteers shall at all times indemnify and save harmless the Virginia Department of Conservation and
Recreation, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and all Commonwealth employees, agents and officers, from responsibility, damage, or
liability arising from the exercise of the privileges granted under designated programs.
I HAVE READ THIS RELEASE OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT, FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS
TERMS, UNDERSTAND THAT I HAVE GIVEN UP SUB STATNTIAL RIGHTS BY SIGNING IT, AND SIGN IT FREELY AND
VOLUNTARILY WITHOUT ANY INDUCEMENT.
X YES / NO
Participant’s Signature DATE 18 Or Older (Circle One)
FOR PARENTS/GUARDINS OF PARTICIPANT OF MINOR AGE (UNDER 18 AT TIME OF REGISTRATION)
This is to certify that I, as parent/guardian with legal responsibility for this participant, do consent and agree to his/her release as provide above of
all the Releases, and for myself, my heirs, assigns, and next of kin, I release and agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Releasees fro m any and
all liability incidents to my minor child’s involvement or participation in these programs as provided above, EVEN IF ARI SING FROM THE
NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
X
Parent/Guardian Signature DATE
The Upper James River
The James River originates at the only class I or II rapids making it ideal will need to plan a river trip. This guide
confluence of the Jackson and Cowpasture for canoe or kayak trips at normal water includes locations of boat landings,
rivers in Botetourt County and forms levels. The white water section below campsites, major rapids, and unique
Virginia’s longest and most famous river. Glasgow includes a class III section for historic points of interests along the way.
The upper section of the James River those interested in more technical water. This is a great resource for planning day
is very scenic with stunning Blue Ridge trips as well as multi-day canoe camping
mountain views. Dam releases on the This paddle guide covers the upper 64 expeditions.
Jackson River flow releases ensure the miles section from the start of the James
upper James River is typically run able river to the Cushaw Dam, just below
all season. The first 60 miles contain Snowden. It includes everything a paddler
Using This Map
George Washington and Rapids (See River Safety panel for class system)
Jefferson National Forrest*
30
Mile markers— numbered from start of the James
Park* River counting down stream
Landmark These maps have been orientated so that the river always flows from
the bottom of the map to the top of the map. This allows paddlers to
easily orient themselves in the river in terms of river right and left
while paddling downstream.
Bridge
1km
Distance gauge
0 1mi
North indicator
Canal
Boat launch
Small boat launch
River flow
Commercial campground
Informal camping
Appalachian Trail
Hiking Trail
*All land along river bank is private property unless noted otherwise.
TWIN RIVER OUTFITTERS
t r o @ c a n o e v i r g i n i a . n e t • 5 4 0 - 2 61 - 7 3 3 4 • 6 5 3 L o w e S t r e e t , B u c h a n a n , VA 2 4 0 6 6 • c a n o e v i r g i n i a . n e t
Day Trips
MAP 1
Lick Run to Glen Wilton - (Map Mile 0.8 to 4.0) This 3.2 mile (1 - 1.5 hours) float features quick current and impressive mountain views of Patterson Mountain on
river right. This trip contains several easy class I rapids and one easy class II rapid.
Glen Wilton to Gala - (Map Mile 4.0 to 11.3) This 7.3 mile (3 – 4 hours) float features numerous class I rapids as well as one class II rapid locally called “The
Squeeze” and should be carefully scouted before being paddled. Gala take out up Sinking Creek under rail road bridge.
Gala to Craig Creek - (Map Mile 11.3 to 15.2) This 3.9 mile (1 – 2 hours) short float has plenty of easy class I rapids to enjoy. This short trip makes for a great after
work float or a good run for river tubing, take out on river right as Craig Creek enters the James River.
MAP 2
Craig Creek to Horseshoe Bend - (Map Mile 15.2 to 28.9) This 13.7 mile (5 – 7 hours) float has numerous class I rapids and a few easy class II rapids along the
way and is on one of the more remote parts of the river. A portion of this trip has been designated a “Virginia Scenic River” section. Named by Blue Ridge Magazine as
the best class I run in the State. This trip also includes some of the most impressive remains of the historic James & Kanawha canal system.
MAP 3
Horseshoe Bend to Springwood - (Map Mile 28.9 to 32.5) This 3.6 mile (1 – 2 hours) is a short and fun trip containing several class I rapids and a mod-
erately challenging class II rapid known as Ritchie’s Falls about 10 minutes into the float. This entire float also has the Virginia Scenic River designation. Take out at
Springwood concrete ramp on river right just below Springwood automobile bridge.
Springwood to Buchanan - (Map mile 32.5 to 37.3) This 5 mile (2 hours) trip is one of the easier floats available on the Water Trail great for first time paddlers or
folks fishing. This trip contains a few easy class I rapids including a ½ mile section of swift water with class I+ rapids.
MAP 4
Buchanan to Arcadia - (Map Mile 37.3 to 43.5) This 6.16 mile (2 ½ hours) float is a fun float with good rapids and current. The trip includes three class II rapids that
can be challenging in higher water conditions . The trip is very popular with local paddlers, normally crowded on weekends.
Arcadia to Alpine - (Map Mile 43.5 to 48.0) This 4.49 mile (1 1/2– 2 hours) section contains several easy Class I rapids and two fun class II rapids at normal water
levels. This part of the river is remote and has some great mountain views. This stretch is also excellent for smallmouth bass fishing.
MAP 5
Alpine to Glasgow - (Map Mile 48.0 to 59.0) This 11.05 mile (4-6 hour) trip features numerous class II rapids alternating between long pools of calm water and
borders miles of National Forest land on the river right. It also has some great mountain views as the James River winds its way along the base of the Blue Ridge
mountains. The take out at Glasgow river left on the heavy timber steps just before Maury River confluence.
MAP 6
Glasgow to Snowden - (Map Mile 59.0 to 63.7) This 4.7 mile (2-3 hour) trip features the most scenic section of the entire Upper James River. This section is also
the most technical and not recommended for beginner paddlers. A rock garden starts about a mile into the float marks the beginning the white water section with
a gradient of 17 feet per mile and contains dozens of class I,II,III rapids. Generally speaking, the easier route in the gorge is to take the right side of river before the
balcony falls rapid and then go down the left side of the river the remaining white water section. Not recommended to be paddled above 4.5 Ft on the James River
Buchanan Gauge. Becomes class VI section at higher water levels. Use caution.
Overnight Trips
MILE BOAT
MARKER LANDINGS CAMPGROUNDS
2 DAY / 3 DAY / 4 DAY / 5 DAY /
1 NIGHT 2 NIGHT 3 NIGHT 4 NIGHT
0.8 IRON GATE
4.0 GLEN WILTON
11.3 GALA
11.8
15.2 CRAIG CREEK
28.8 HORSESHOE BEND
29.1
32.5 SPRINGWOOD
37.3 BUCHANAN
43.5 ARCADIA
43.6
48.0 ALPINE
56.3 JELLY STONE OR WILDERNESS CANOE
59.0 GLASGOW
60.2 NATIONAL FOREST
63.7 SNOWDEN
TOTAL TRIP DISTANCE 28.0 22.1 21.7 15.7 36.5 32.8 26.4 58.2 48.5 62.9
RIVER MAP REFERENCE NUMBERS 1& 2 2& 3 4&5 5&6
River Safety
General Safety
1) ALWAYS WEAR A LIFE JACKET. Wear a back, and sideways, and how to stop using RAPID CLASSIFICATION
properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard-approved paddle strokes. Watch ahead for hazards.
life jacket at all times on the water. Stay low. Learn how to enter and exit Class I (easy): Fast moving water with
your boat safely and stay low in your boat riffles and small waves. The river has few
2) ALCOHOL AND PADDLING DON’T MIX. when possible. Consider taking a canoe or obstructions which are all obvious and
Save the alcohol consumption for after kayak safety paddling skills class to learn easily missed with little training.
your day on the river. Unfortunately, a more about handling your boat.
huge percentage of river accidents and Class II (novice): Straightforward rapids
death involve alcohol in some form. 6) NEVER PADDLE ALONE. Companions with wide, clear channels which are
can come to your aid if you get in trouble. typically evident without scouting.
3) KNOW THE RIVER WATER LEVELS. – New paddlers should paddle with Occasional maneuvering may be required.
DON’T PADDLE WHEN RIVER IS TOO HIGH. someone more experienced— it’s a great Swimmers are seldom injured and group
Check the water levels online before you way to learn and remain safe if there’s assistance. Rapids that are at the upper
float. High water causes faster currents, a mishap. Additionally, it’s a good idea end of this difficulty range are designated
larger waves, and increases risks of to tell someone your “Float Plan” for “Class II+.”
encountering strainers or boat pinning accountability and safety.
tree limbs. The Upper James River Water Class III (intermediate): Rapids with
trail closes at 6 feet on the Buchanan 7) KNOW YOUR ROUTE. Know the route moderate, irregular waves which may be
James River Gauge due to high water and you are paddling including the put in, difficult to avoid and which can swamp
safety issues . take out, and any major rapids, or hazards an open canoe. Complex maneuvers
expected to encounter along the way. in fast current and good boat control
4) KNOW THE WEATHER & WATER Consult maps, books, outfitters, or other in tight passages or around ledges are
TEMPERATURES. Check the forecast paddlers for trip advice when paddling a often required. Scouting is advisable.
before you go and dress appropriately for new section of water. Large waves or strainers may be present.
expected conditions. Strong eddies and powerful current
effects can be found, particularly on
5) KNOW HOW TO CONTROL YOUR BOAT.
larger volume rivers.
Be in command of your paddle craft and
know how to move your boat forward,
Water Levels
The river levels on the upper James Generally speaking the Upper section of Above 6 ft or 5,00 CFS
River are constantly changing and are the James River is able to be paddled the Too high—Do not paddle.
ultimately determined by amount of entire season due to releases from the Experts only.
rain upstream in the watershed and Gathright Dam through out the summer.
releases from the Gathright Dam from That being said, it can have low water 4-6 ft/ 2,000-5,000 CFS
Lake Moomaw. The National Weather levels, normally August and September High water—use caution.
Service maintains a forecast river gauge and you may have to step out of your boat
of the James River – Buchanan River once every 4 - 5 miles due to low water
Gauge. Local outfitters and paddlers have issues. So even when the river is 2.3 ft 2-4 ft/ 400-2,000 CFS
generally adopted this graph to interpret or lower 99% of the paddle is very good Normal paddling levels.
the water levels for the Upper James conditions and fun and its one of the few
River. River forecast can be found at rivers in the western part of Virginia that
Below 2ft or 400 CFS
canoevirginia.net/Riverlevels can be paddled all season long.
Too low.
Scan QR Code to
get up-to-date
river levels.
16
Roanoke
43
15.2
Eagle Rock Pa
tte
rs
Map 2 on
C r.
Map 1 Cr
ai
g
C
Old Train Trestle Bridge
r.
14
43
220 13
Cowpasture River
M 12
Paddlers taking a break on the Cowpasture river, a il l 11.8
Cr
major contributory to the James river. .
TRO Campground- Gala Class I Rapids
See information panel Class I+ Wave-field. After the bend, Class I
11.3
rapids. Run first two left, and last one right.
11
.
Cr
Gala
g
Upper ENTIRE DESCRIPTION
JAMES JAMES kin
Sin
RIVER RIVER
MILE MILE 622
10
0.0 346.60 Start of the James River
0.6 346.00 Class II Rapid
f Rd.
0.8 345.81 Bridge - Route 220
Prices Bluf
0.8 345.80 Boat landing - Lick Run
0.9 345.70 River Gauge - Lick Run 9
2.0 344.60 Rapid - Class II- "Surprise"
4.0 342.60 Bridge - Route 622
4.0 342.58 Boat Landing - Glen Wilton
4.8 341.80 Small Island
6.4 340.20 Class II Rapid "The Squeeze" 8
6.9 339.75 Bridge - Rail Road Holes
Class II Rapid: "The Squeeze"
8.5 338.10 Small Island Trees
River turns to the left and narrows
9.9 336.70 Prices Bluff down. Caution in high water. Scouting is
11.3 335.30 Sinking Creek - Under Rail Road Bridge River Left recommended!
Rocky
11.3 335.30 Boat Landing - Gala Beach
11.3 335.30 Kelly's Market
11.4 335.20 20 ft cliffs 6
7
11.7 334.90 Mill Creek
11.8 334.80 Camp Ground - Gala - Twin River Outfitters 5
13.9 332.75 Bridge - US 220
15.1 331.50 Bridge - Rail Road Bridge
15.2 331.40 Craig Creek
15.2 331.41 Boat Landing - Eagle Rock
4
Glen Wilton
220
633 3
.8
un
kR
Lic
1
2
eR
tur v.
as Class II Rapid: "Surprise"
Class II Rapid
Cowp
Easy class II rapid, can be tricky
Start right of center in lower water levels.
and move far right. Start of James. Mile “0” Run left
v.
re R
tu Ja ck
Clifton Forge
Cowpas
so
n
Rv
.
Map 1 Iron Gate—Eagle Rock Miles 0—16
1km
0 1mi
TRO Campground- Narrow Passage Buchanan
See information panel
Map 3
29.1 Class II Rapid: "Richie’s Falls”
Cliffs 30 River-wide 1.5 ft. ledge. Run far left. Use
29 caution. Scouting recommended.
28.9
Horseshoe 27
Map 2
Cliffs
Bend
28 Class I Rapid
Take either side of island.
Class I Rapid Shallow in late summer.
Grain silos
Shallow in late summer.
26
25
43 STONE PIERS
Cliffs
23
24
688
22
Sa
lt Cliffs Buttons Bluff Railroad Bridge
P
Class II Rapid
View from Buttons Bluff overlook of Rail Road
ete
rC
ave Rd. Long wave field. Large waves develop bridge near mile 27.
at higher water levels. Take the
largest channels. Watch for debris. 21
ba Cr.
Salisbury taw
Ca
Class I+ Rapid: “CATAWBA CREEK ISLANDS”
Map 2
Class II Rapid: "Gwynn Lock" 20 Take largest channel. Smaller channels may be too low and/or
clogged with debris. Most water is right of first two islands. All
Old dam site. Run either channel; channels can get shallow at low water levels.
left in low water.
Old Canal 18
Fincastle
19
Map 1 Rocky beach
688
DESCRIPTION UPPER ENTIRE
Cliffs
Old Dam Site JAMES JAMES
RIVER RIVER
MILE MILE
Bridge - Rail Road Bridge 15.1 331.50
Craig Creek 15.2 331.40
17 Cliffs Boat Landing - Eagle Rock 15.2 331.41
43 Last Lock Park 15.3 331.30
Bridge - James Street 15.7 330.90
Old Bridge Remains 15.9 330.75
Historic canal system remains 18.3 328.35
Class II Rapid “Gwynn Lock” 18.3 328.34
Catawba Creek Islands 19.5 327.10
Catawba Creek 20.6 326.00
Historic Canal Navigation System Remains 20.7 325.90
Rail Road Tunnel 20.9 325.70
220 Historic Canal Navigation System Remains 21.8 324.80
Class II Rapid at higher water levels 21.9 324.70
16
Rocky Cliffs 22.9 323.70
Eagle Rock Chimney Rock
Salt Peter Cave Creek
23.4
23.9
323.20
322.70
Two Stone Piers Remains 25.7 320.90
Bridge -Rail Road 27.1 319.50
Gravel Shallows 26.8 319.85
Oxbow Bend Islands 27.8 318.80
Last lock park White Farm House 28.6 318.00
15.2 Power Lines 28.9 317.70
Horseshoe Bend Boat Landing 28.9 317.70
43 15 Cra Camp Ground - Narrow Passage - Twin River Outfitters 29.1 317.50
ig C Class II Rapid “Richie’s Falls” 29.8 316.80
Gala Bridge -Rail Road 30.2 316.45
r.
14
Map 2 Eagle Rock—Horseshoe Bend Miles 14—30
1km
0 1mi43 Blue Ridge Parkway Map 4 Map 3
Class II Rapid: "Quarry Rapid”
1/4 mile wave-field. Swift water and waves that
can tip over boat. Challenging in high water.
Buchanan
39
38
TWIN RIVER
OUTFITTERS Buchanan Town Park
SWINGING BRIDGE 37
36 Limestone Park
Exit 167 11 Class I Rapid
Swift water. Run center. 11
STONE PIERS
OLD BRIDGE DEBRIS
Lexington
81 Roanoke
UPPER ENTIRE DESCRIPTION 35
JAMES JAMES
Exit 162
RIVER RIVER
MILE MILE
28.9 317.70 Power Lines
28.9 317.70 Horseshoe Bend Boat Landing
29.1 317.50 Camp Ground - Narrow Passage - Twin River Outfitters
29.8 316.80 Class II Rapid “Richie’s Falls”
30.2 316.45 Bridge -Rail Road
30.8 315.80 Shallow Rocky shoals
30.9 315.70 Power Lines
32.5 314.12 Springwood Island
32.5 314.11 Boat Landing - Springwood
32.5 314.10 Bridge - Springwood Road
32.7 313.95 Old Bridge Piers 34
32.9 313.70 Rocky shoals
33.3 313.30 Old Bridge Remains Swinging Bridge
33.5 313.10 Begin flat 2 mile flat water pool
The only bridge of its kind on the James River.
35.3 311.35 Bridge - I81 Interstate 43
35.7 310.90 Looney Mill Creek
35.7 310.92 Limestone Park
35.8 310.85 Stone Piers OLD BRIDGE DEBRIS
35.9 310.70 Looney Ferry Historic Site JAMES RIVER
37.0 309.60 Buchanan Town Park HIGH SCHOOL
37.3 309.30 Boat Landing - Buchanan
37.3 309.28 Twin River Outfitters
Sp
rin
33 Class II Rapid
gw Shallow wave-field. Becomes difficult to
37.4 309.25 River Gauge - Buchanan oo
dR navigate during late summer’s low water.
37.4 309.21 Bridge - Pedestrian Swinging Bridge d. 630
37.4 309.20 Bridge - Route 11 - Buchanan Main Street
38.5 308.10 Class II Rapid “Quarry Rapid” OLD BRIDGE PIERS
32.5 Springwood
32
Sp
Map 4
rin
gw
oo
d
Rd
.
Map 3
630
31 Class I+ Rapid
Run right of center.
Becomes difficult in low water.
TRO Campground- Narrow Passage
See information panel
Map 3
Horseshoe
Bend 29.1 Class II Rapid: "Richie’s Falls”
River-wide 1.5 ft. ledge. Run far left. Use
30
caution. Scouting recommended. Map 2
29
Eagle Rock 28.9
1km
Map 3 Horseshoe Bend—Buchanan Miles 29—39 0 1miMap 5 Map 5 Map 4
Lexington 48
Rock Quarry Alpine Class II Rapid
Map 4 Rocky ledges across from boat landing. Run
center of main channel, left of first ledge, and
d 622
Run R right of center on second ledge.
Rocky
81 47
Powerlines
46
608
Powerline
45 Arcadia
Class II Rapid
The James River and Kanawha Canal Take left channel around island. Right channel
Indian Rock typically is low in summer.
A canal system in Virginia intended to facilitate 44
shipments of passengers and freight by water 43.5 (Public Arcadia Hand-carry access)
between the western counties and the coast TRO Campground- Arcadia
of Virginia. Surveyed and planned by George See information panel
43
Washington, the canal project was begun in 42
1785 as the James River Company, and later 614
resumed under the James River and Kanawha 42.7
Canal Company. Planned construction would
have allowed river traffic to travel from the
Class I+
Class II Rapid: "Jennings Creek"
tidal waters below Richmond to the Ohio Left channel at island is class II rapid. Ledge
Valley entirely by river except for a 30 mile sticks out from left bank past first island and
turnpike Class I forces water sharply to right. Stay to right in the Class I Rapid
bend. Right channel is class I+ and typically low
Shallow late summer.
The canal system was only half completed by Class II in summer.
41
1851, reaching Buchanan, in Botetourt County
Virginia. Eventually railroads over took the 614
canal system as a far more productive mode of Exit 168
transportation. Construction expansion efforts
ceased, due to financial reasons, and ultimately Class II Rapid
most of the property was purchased by the Run left of center.
rail roads. Many of the stone locks, dams, and
canal remains can still be seen to this day while 40
padding the Upper James River.
UPPER ENTIRE DESCRIPTION Class II Rapid: "Quarry Rapid”
Exit 167 39
JAMES JAMES 1/4 mile wave-field. Swift water and waves that
RIVER RIVER can tip over boat. Challenging in high water.
MILE MILE 38.5
35.9 310.70 Looney Ferry Historical Site
37.3 309.30 Boat Landing - Buchanan
37.3 309.28 Twin River Outfitters 11 38 Rock Quarry Cliffs
37.4 309.25 River Gauge - Buchanan
37.4 309.21 Bridge - Pedestrian Swinging Bridge
37.4 309.20 Bridge - Route 11 - Buchanan Main Street
38.5 308.10 Class II Rapid “Quarry Rapid” 43 Blue Ridge
40.4 306.20 Historic Canal Navigation System Remains
Swinging Bridge
Parkway
40.3 306.28 Class II Rapid
41.5 305.10 Very Small Island TWIN RIVER OUTFITTERS
42.7 303.90 Jennings Creek Class II Rapid
42.8 303.80 Jennings Creek
43.5 303.15 Bridge - Arcadia RT 614 Buchanan Town Park
43.5 303.15 Boat landing - Arcadia 37
43.5
44.1
303.10
302.50
Camp Ground - Arcadia - Twin River Outfitters
Indian Rock
Buchanan
44.4 302.20 Houses
44.7 301.90 Small Island - Private property
44.7 301.88 Historic Canal Navigation System Remains
44.7 301.87 Class II Rapid
45.1 301.50 Power Lines
47.5 299.10 Power Lines Map 4
47.6 299.05 High Cliffs
48.0 298.65 Boat Landing - Alpine Roanoke Map 3
36 Limestone Park
Map 4 Buchanan—Alpine Miles 36—48
1km
0 1miMaury R
v.
Map 5 Glasgow
Map 6 59
60
Lexington
Class III Rapid
81
Class II Rapid: "Cement Tower" Maury River entering
James River.
I
sI
sI
Start in left third and angle back to right side
s
s
Cla
Cla
Water for best ride. Sneak is extreme left. Becomes
Tank
class II+ in high water.
58
National Forest Camping
Concrete
Tower
Locher Tract N.F.
57
Exit 180 56.9 Wilderness Canoe
Company Campground
Class II Rapid: "Old Dam" See information panel
Old dam site. Run in center.
56.3 Jellystone
Campground
See information panel
56
11
Arnold Valley Bridge
Natural Bridge
Station
55 Class I+ Rapid
Double ledge run left to right
between ledges.
130
Map 6
54
Glasgow Timber Steps (Boat Ramp)
mile marker 59. 708 Class I+ Rapid
Foot and a half drop. Run left
of center
Map 5
608
Ba
Ce d. 53 ck
dar sR Run
Natural Bridge Cr.
e
M
ill C r.
or
Gi
lm Class I Rapid
Smith Tract N.F.
52
11 Class I Rapid
Arnold’s Valley Bridge
Exit 175
National Forest Camping
UPPER ENTIRE DESCRIPTION
JAMES JAMES 51
RIVER RIVER
MILE MILE
48.0 298.65 Boat Landing - Alpine
47.8 298.80 Small Island - class II Rapid
49.3 297.30 Historic Canal Navigation System Remains
48.3 298.30 Rapid - Class II
609 608
52.4 294.20 Cedar Creek - enters river left under rail road bridge 50
52.7 293.90 Smith Tract- National forest site
53.4 293.25 Back Run enters James River under Rail Road Culvert
55.2 291.40 Bridge - Rail Road
Class II- Rapid
55.7 290.90 Bridge -Arnold’s Valley Two foot drop. Run far left
56.0 290.65 Arnold’s Creek over ledge and then right.
56.3 290.35 Campground - Jelly stone 49
56.4 290.20 Residential Houses
56.6 290.05 Historic Canal Navigation System Remains
56.9 289.70 Campground - Wilderness Canoe
57.3 289.30 Locher Tract
58.3 288.30 Class II Rapid “Cement Tower Rapid”
81 Class II Rapid
59.0 287.60 Boat Landing - Glasgow Rocky ledges across from
59.1 287.50 Maury River confluence Roanoke 48
boat landing. Run center of
59.4 287.25 Enter James River Gorge Map 5 main channel, left of first
Map 4 Alpine ledge, and right of center on
second ledge.
Map 5 Alpine—Glasgow Miles 48—60 0
1km
1mi501
Blue Ridge 130 Lynchburg DESCRIPTION UPPER ENTIRE
JAMES JAMES
Parkway RIVER RIVER
MILE MILE
64
64.1 RIVER
WARNING Bridge -Arnold’s Valley
Arnold’s Creek
55.7
56.0
290.90
290.65
Cushaw Dam. NO PORTAGE OPTION!!! Must Campground - Jelly stone 56.3 290.35
takeout at boat landing 0.5 miles above dam. Residential Houses 56.4 290.20
Historic Canal Navigation System Remains 56.6 290.05
63.7
Campground - Wilderness Canoe 56.9 289.70
63.6 James River Foot Bridge Locher Tract 57.3 289.30
At 700 ft, it is the longest Class II Rapid “Cement Tower Rapid” 58.3 288.30
pedestrian only bridge on the AT Boat Landing - Glasgow 59.0 287.60
Maury River confluence 59.1 287.50
Snowden Enter James River Gorge
Start Rock Garden
59.4
59.7
287.25
286.90
Informal Camping Spot - National Forest Land 60.2 286.40
63 Balcony Falls Rapid 60.5 286.15
Class II+ Rapid “Little Balcony” 60.8 285.80
Lunch Rock 60.9 285.70
Large Island 61.9 284.70
Large Vegetated Island 62.1 284.55
VDOT 501 Dam impoundment area (Flat water till dam) 62.2 284.40
picnic area
Appalachian Trail Foot Bridge 63.6 283.00
Rail Road Bridge 63.7 282.92
Rocky Row Run Creek 63.7 282.90
Boat landing - Snowden 63.7 282.90
Cushaw Dam 64.1 282.50
62
Balcony Falls
501
Class III Rapid: "Little Balcony"
130 Long “rock garden”. Stay far left.
RIVER Class III Rapid: "Balcony Falls"
WARNING Largest rapid on the upper James River. Begins
White water 3 mile section. just after a large retaining wall on the left
Recommended for experienced bank. Scout from rock island in middle of
paddlers only! the river. Best route is right of center in main
channel. Sneak route is against extreme far
60 Sneak
right bank.
Stone Retaining Wall
Class III Rapid
Class I Rapid
Confluence of the Maury
River and the James River.
High water volume.
Buena Vista National Forest Camping
501 59
.
Rv Map 6
ry
au
M Class II Rapid: "Cement Tower"
II
I
ss
Start in left third and angle back to right side
ss
Cla
Cla
for best ride. Easier route, left side of river. Water
Tank
Becomes class II+ in high water.
Glasgow 58
Concrete
Tower
Locher Tract N.F.
Wilderness Canoe Company Campground Map 5
See Information panel
56.9
56.3 Jellystone Campground
See Information panel
Class II Rapid: "Old Dam"
Old dam site. Run in center.
56
130
Natural Bridge Arnold Valley Bridge
Buchanan Station
1km
Map 6 Glasgow—Snowden Miles 56—64 0 1miYou can also read
