East Branch South Fork Eel Paddle Report

Summary

The ideal streamflow range for this river run is between 400 and 1,200 cubic feet per second (cfs), which typically occurs during the spring and early summer months. The class rating for this river run is Class III-IV, making it a challenging and exciting experience for intermediate to advanced paddlers.

The segment mileage for this river run is approximately 9 miles, with a put-in at the Dos Rios Bridge and a take-out at the South Fork Eel River. The river rapids and obstacles that paddlers can expect to encounter include the Hurricane Hole, which is a Class IV rapid, as well as numerous Class III rapids such as Pinball, Haystack, and Waterslide.

Specific regulations to the area include a mandatory shuttle service, which is designed to reduce traffic congestion and protect the environment. Additionally, all paddlers are required to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and have a whistle on their person. It is also recommended that paddlers have prior whitewater experience and training before attempting this river run.

In summary, the East Branch South Fork Eel is a challenging and exciting whitewater river run with an ideal streamflow range between 400 and 1,200 cfs. The class rating is Class III-IV, with a segment mileage of 9 miles and specific river rapids and obstacles such as Hurricane Hole, Pinball, and Haystack. Specific regulations to the area include a mandatory shuttle service, PFD and whistle requirements, and recommended prior whitewater experience and training.