Poudre River Runoff – High Water On The Way

Ready to scrape some plastic? The Cache la Poudre River levels have started to rise. The Poudre Rock Report has Pineview flowing at 1.75 feet (as of Monday afternoon, May 9, 2011). The river will crest well above that in a few weeks, but 1.75 is plenty of water to bust out the boats and paddles and get ready for some fun!!

As we prepare for the runoff, here are a few  ideas to keep in mind.

Pay for Safety

One of the best ways to experience the Poudre is through a rafting trip. I don't have a favorite outfitter here, just ask around about these big ones. A Wanderlust Adventure, Rocky Mountain Adventure and Mountain Whitewater Descents and A-1 Wildwater Rafting.  They will take you on a trip that fits your desired excitement level, and trust me, it goes all the way beyond 10 on scale of 10.

Hit the Peak

The Poudre peaks between May 15 and June 15, usually. Colorado spring sunshine causes the mountain snowpack to melt. Gravity turns it into great fun as the crystal pure water  swirls down Poudre Canyon, cutting it deeper and deeper every year. High water makes it faster, more exciting, and in some places, safer.

Don't Tube In the Canyon

It's just not safe. It could be deadly with high water. Filter Plant is a stretch of the Cache la Poudre River just below Gateway Park, about 5 miles from Ted's Place. Many people put their tubes in here. This goes through Class 2 and class 3 water. As far as consequences, Classes 2 and 3 should only cause bumps and bruises in very good swimmers. If you are not such a good swimmer, it could be fatal. Plus, the water is snowmelt...so... NOT warm. Another danger, especially through May and June, is hypothermia. If you are in shorts and no shirt in a tube that has a good portion of your body in the water for extended periods of time, you are in danger of hypothermia.

Flip Flops DON'T WORK IN THE RIVER

They seem like such a good idea at the house. The fact is the current will have them off your feet within a few moments of entering the mighty Poudre. Use old sneakers that can be tied to your feet, or get some good water shoes that have neoprene to keep your feet warmer. For that matter, if you are going to spend any time in the water, wetsuits and Personal Flotation Devices (PFD's) are essential.

It's a real double edged sword. We have one of the most beautiful rivers in the world right here, but if approached without caution, it could be trouble. So, educate yourself and have fun with the river this year!!!!!