With clear water and a flow that carves its way through the narrow sandstone canyons of northwest Alabama, the Sipsey River is the perfect place to enjoy the wild beauty of the state. Weve seen so many river turtles on various trips, that they arent worth noting, but on this day we saw something a little different. Wild and Scenic is simply a designation made to preserve "certain selected rivers which possess outstandingly remarkable scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and wildlife, historic, and cultural values" --Wild & Scenic Rivers Act, 1968. 69 N ~ Jasper, Alabama 35504, Physical/ GPS Address : 17027 Hwy. Gauge height: 3.25 feet, #SipseyRiver #canoe #kayak #BankheadNationalForest #canoeing #kayaking #Alabama. Get kayak updates, guides, tips, gear reviews and offers sent straight to your inbox! It was a long day, and I was pretty tired. The Sipsey River in Bankhead National Forest was about 75 minutes from our campground, but we could tell it was our kind of river. Krystals response was, Were way past charging. Josh pulled them through. Based on the location and length of time on the water, this is an all-day adventure, and easily one of the most scenic and remote experiences in the state. What do you see when you look at a map of Alabamas 132,000 miles of rivers and streams? And bring a change of dry clothes. An outfitter should provide a shuttle service (and sometimes other transportation) between put-ins and take-outs along their respective river stretches. Most of the area rivers that I could find information on were a bit larger than I like and a bit too popular, as in there were kayak rentals. Its rich wildlife habitats have earned it its place as one of the Ten Natural Wonders in Alabama.The river generally consists of slow moving flatwater, although there is a section called the 100 yard dash, which has faster flowing water of Class II rapids.There are several put-ins and take-outs within Bankhead National Forest and there is a kayak and canoe launch at the Sipsey River Picnic Area where youll also find parking and restrooms.Along the paddling trail youll see waterfalls, bluffs and lots of wildlife. The 265 mile long Tallapoosa River forms part of the Alabama Scenic River Trail and can be a great place to paddle whether youre a beginner or a more experienced kayaker. Even though camping isnt allowed on the bank, there are campgrounds close to the river. Josh said, Never again on flatwater! Joshs whitewater history with the Sipsey was also evident in the paddling helmets that his group wore. This section of the Flint River north of Cullman shows how vast Alabamas whitewater experience can be if you kindle your sense of adventure and take the time to hunt. Go! And no, John Foshee's book doesn't really help here. We rent NuCanoe Kayaks (sit on top) for floating and fishing on the Sipsey Fork. In the end, we went to the right of it. On the Sipsey its easy to navigate past large boulders and rocks due to the water clarity, and manageable Class II rapids provide beginning paddlers a challenge. If there were two pullovers in the first 500 feet, what would it be like further downstream? Safety precautions must never be ignored or neglected, and will ensure an unforgettable, injury-free trip. Current info on Yak tha Creek FB. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@getmatcha.com. Paddle this area shortly after a major rainfall and you quickly understand the nickname, Land of 1000 Waterfalls. In addition to the cascades and solitude, the river itself is a stunning example of a pristine natural environment. All other logistics (boat transportation, vehicle shuttle, navigation, etc.) In one particular trip down the Sipsey, someone in our party "exited" their kayak which then turned over and filled with water. The boat was great in whitewater, but there was none of that on the Sipsey this day. The first section from the put-in at the bridge on Highway 14 (just west of Snead, AL) flows for 10 miles to the take-out at Cold Branch Road. The water is a breathtaking shade of green (and cold) and there are numerous waterfalls cascading from high rock bluffs. Despite the 30-foot or more drop to the water, we were surprised there were warnings to be prepared for flash floods in the parking area. My planned bike shuttle was about 12 miles total: about 8 miles on Alabama Highway 33 and 4 miles on Cranal Road. Im pretty sure I could have arranged a shuttle via FloridaKayak.org, even that far north, but our schedule was a bit fluid. If the water level had been any higher than 5.4' that day, we may not have been able to pass under the tree.The second obstacle was another tree down but there were several feet of the tree that were mostly submerged. The cliffs of the river canyon create a waterfall wonderland after even the slightest rain, as everything funnels off the elevated plateau into the river basin below. are up to you. The scenery isnt bad either, with clear turquoise water that cuts through sandstone cliffs. CampingKayaking1/2 Day Guided Trip 1 Person (Wading)1/2 Day Guided Trip 1 Person (Drift Boat)1/2 Day Guided Trip 2 Person (Wading)1/2 Day Guided Trip 2 Person (Drift Boat)Full Day Guide Trip 1 Person (Wading)Full Day Guide Trip 1 Person (Drift Boat)Full Day Guide Trip 2 Person (Wading)Full Day Guide Trip 2 Person (Drift Boat). That was OK, though, because the water wasnt moving much that day. A large paved parking lot with picnic tables, restrooms and a sloping ramp are there for visitors use, and is considered one of the states most convenient river launching sites. The family boating arrangements worked out pretty good. Ultranighter Dry Storage/Flotation Bags - $124.95 - Buy Now, A post shared by The 64 Project (@the64project). As youre introduced to the sport, youll not only learn crucial paddling skills and safety procedures, but youll also learn the different classification of rapids and how water flow makes river navigation possible or more difficult. We recommend planning for at least 7-9 hours of paddling. As we drove in on Highway 33, however, I started having second (and third) thoughts. The Sipsey River has flowed for many years, cutting through the layers of sandstone that make up the Brindley Mountain plateau. We were ready to get on the river! I've marked one particular ideal camp site on the map for a future trip. I was about to ask about getting a ride back with them at the end when Josh suggested it. We introduced ourselves with the hope that they knew something about the river that we didnt. This allows for less paddling and a faster float from the put in to the take out. Putting in at Thompson Creek would effectively double your trip (from 9 to 18 miles). I like carrying a spare. These boats werent going to be as easy to hop in and out of as our canoes, and I figured they might draw a little bit more water. Josh spent much of the day just doing partial strokes, to try to keep the thing straight. Having said that, it's a fairly harmless obstacle but don't feel bad if you tip (unless you haven't tied down your gear). Along the way youll paddle under nine railroad track tunnels. Just how wet is really the question. Moving water or not, the kids were pretty good paddlers, in my book. The Sipsey River: Paddling at Ultra-Low Water is still a Great Hike, Chopping our way down the upper Sopchoppy River. Susan and I were spending five nights at Monte Sano State Park in Huntsville, Alabama; and, as we usually do when we are away from home, we looked for nearby places to paddle. Despite the low water, we were able to paddle most, but certainly not all, of the 12-mile trip. It didn't take me long to realize there was very little I could do with one free hand while holding on to a few hundred pounds of dead weight with the other. All rights reserved. I figured we could go a little lower than that because the minimum for whitewater paddlers is probably a bit higher than the minimum for Florida small creek paddlers. This is a class II rapid tossed into the middle of what is definitely a class I river. I also recommend putting on waterproof pants before you hit the dash. This section of Bear Creek is a perfect paddle for newbies seeking just a couple of light Class II rapid spots. There were giant boulders lining part of our way, and rock walls that towered above us. Josh had mentioned his whitewater experience, but I didnt know about the rest of the family. If the water level had been any lower, it would have been necessary to portage.Lastly, there was a log partially blocking the entrance to the 100-yard dash about face-level. Actually, it's probably good you're still reading because we've got boat loads of tips about the Sipsey. For one, put-in and take-out locations for the most popular run. Roadside Highway 231at the bridges just before you get to the square in Ashville,
If you want to be extra safe, pack two sets of everything just in case you have mishap unrelated to the 100-yard dash. 1/2 Day Guided Trip 1 Person (Drift Boat), 1/2 Day Guided Trip 2 Person (Drift Boat), Full Day Guide Trip 1 Person (Drift Boat), Full Day Guide Trip 2 Person (Drift Boat). If you have some whitewater kayaking experience and youre seeking a challenge thats less daunting than Little River Canyon, head to the Locust Fork section of the Black Warrior. The Sipsey Recreation area on County Road 60 is the put-in location. Not exactly hypothermia-cold but certainly unpleasant especially once the sun goes behind the trees. Josh had a worn, hand-printed note card with guidelines on the river based on a wooden gauge mounted to the ancient bridge. For perspective, 12,598 miles of U.S. rivers have received this designation of which Alabama's Sipsey accounts for 64 of those milesonly half of one percent. Our new river friends turned out to be a very nice family back from several years in Peru doing missionary work. I waited up on Josh and company as they walked their boats through yet another shallow section. Also, instructors and experienced boaters can help you become familiar with various types of whitewater boats, so you can determine what you really like before you invest a bunch of money in a boat. A self-guided trip can be done by renting a canoe from the Outdoor Rec Department at UAB in downtown Birmingham. Launch behind the shop and paddle the Upper Sipsey Fork, Mill Creek, and Boyd Creek then return the boats to the launch when you are done with your adventure. We put a carabiner in it to make sure it stayed that way. Motivational Problems It was a Long, Hard Day. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Stop What You're Doing and Go Paddle the Sipsey, West Huntsville Receives Much Needed Nature Preserve, Introduction to Mountain Biking in North Alabama, Greenways: Huntsville partners with the Land Trust, Tracking the American Alligator in Limestone Bay, Top Swimming Holes in the Huntsville Area. Kayak Names For Your Boat with Funny Ideas! Click the picture to see details at Amazon. This time I wasn't so worried and forgot to bring some essentials. Daily rental packages (boat, PFDs, paddles, straps) are available for $25-$40 and you can call ahead (205-996-4913) to reserve a boat. Found on Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama, Little River Canyon is the heart and soul of whitewater kayaking in the state. If not for a fortunate twist of fate, however, Susan and I would never have paddled the Sipsey River, and we would have missed out on the stunning views and experience it offered. Any purchasethrough our links supports the website. We hauled the boats 200-feet up a fairly steep bank to a small clearing. We only thought the tough part of the trip was over. Just as I had pretty much talked myself out of paddling the Sipsey this day, a truck pulled in towing a trailer with three boats on it. (I do obsess a bit about painter lines, but they really do come in handy a lot.). Statistics & Safety Guide. Use our map to find the Sipsey Recreation Area on County Road 60 (Cranal Rd). While the main tributary, the East Fork, consists mostly of Class II rapids with a few challenging drops and rocks, the Railroad Fork is one of the most unique river experiences youll encounter. The water itself was the color of weak tea, but clear enough to easily see the river bottom. My best guess was that we would be spending a lot of time dragging boats and getting stuck in shoals. There were lots of fish with few good places to hide. Youll also discover canyons and caves alongside the river, as well as places where you can camp. It looked like a handgun, because thats what it was a Smith and Wesson 22 semi-automatic. Youll also find kayak rentals (including fishing kayaks) at Town Creek Fishing Center.On the other side of the lake, there is a public boat ramp at Marshall County Park, just over the water from Guntersville and there is also a campground. Click map for more information on outfitters in each district, blueways they establish and operate is here, www.uab.edu/campusrecreation/adventure-rec-home. You need to be aware of the dangers of faster current and keep the kayak away from the edges of the river to avoid obstructions. The water rises and helps push the kayak downstream. When your trip is complete, give us a call and we will shuttle you back to the shop. -87.398499, Live like a Birmingham local whenever, wherever, Outdoor destinations + local stories & exclusive outdoor events. Even if you don't tip, you will likely get soaked unless you have a spray skirt. Dumping at the 100-yard dash while carrying firearms must not be all that uncommon!). If you're even slightly familiar with the Sipsey, then you know how infrequently sufficient the water level is to allow safe navigation of this river. There were no vehicles in the canoe launch parking area that was across an ancient-looking bridge from the hiking trail parking. This could be a good spot for kayak camping, as there are plenty of miles to cover if youre looking to extend your trip. Whether youre new to the whitewater kayaking, or youre simply not familiar with Alabamas rivers and creeks, this quick and dirty guide will get you up to speed on some of the Yellowhammer States best whitewater options. Ella and Isaac took turns in the solo kayak and with their mom. Steep cliffs on either bank contribute to the sense of solitude and provide striking scenery and hundreds of places to beach your canoe and explore on foot. No matter your experience level, youll find great places to paddle on creek and rivers throughout Alabama. The answer is, It Depends. Riverside Fly Shop 2021. Alabama Scenic River Trail. Josh rigged kayak paddles to make carry bars, but I was sure his paddles would break. Josh had whitewater experience and had paddled the Sipsey maybe a handful of times many years back. Both of the youngsters were extremely polite and interesting. Maybe you've heard of the Sipsey River; maybe you haven't. I was wrong, and the four of us carried the tandem up the road without an issue of course the last stretch was another steep climb. To say that there were ruts at the head of the mile road was a bit of an understatement. There are many launch points and take-out points along the river, which can make it ideal both for longer overnight trips and for shorter trips. I predicted that hiking was in our future, and I was right -- sort of. You need an extra set of EVERYTHING. Dont Forget to Fill out your Wavier Click Here, Mailing Address : 17027 Hwy. There are lots of places to stay in the area, whether youre looking for a hotel or youd prefer to camp. One of the things we were looking forward to was the 100-yard dash. Additionally, the Sipsey River is as good as it gets in North Alabama. Enjoy a day of paddling the cold waters below Smith Lake Dam with 2 options. Several sources, including Alabama Whitewater, suggested that the minimum water level for the Sipsey River online gauge should be about 4.0 feet. It wouldnt have been that easy to grab a river turtle. Yak tha Creek, Ashville (Big Canoe Creek). We did talk some as we went down the river, though. There are numerous access points further downstream on Canyon River Road like East Fork and Chairlift, that provide miles of paddling across varying whitewater classes and river gradients. If youre a kayaker, you see plenty of potential for adventure, and many reasons to get excited. I mentioned my bike shuttle plan. Knowing the proper water level is important too. While this branch of the Flint River starts out as Class II and III, theres serious Class IV water farther downstream. The two kids proved themselves to be real troopers who I never heard complain during the whole trip. There is no whitewater. Water flow is controlled by TVA, which usually plans releases to coincide with summer crowds. Live bait, hot food, and cold drinks. Trip date: June 13, 2017 Boats need to be returned around 5pm. The Most Expensive Bass Boats MONEY CAN BUY! The only months the Sipsey is navigable are the winter months so you'll get cold quickly once wet. Summers can be brutally hot and buggy, and the river is even unnavigable for much of this season when there isn't the minimum flow of 75 cfs. Luckily I didn't need any of them but several in our party did. Things were pretty dry in north Alabama, and I had been watching water levels online hoping for a decent rain either prior to our arrival or early in the week. A post shared by The 64 Project (@the64project) on Oct 16, 2017 at 11:49am PDT. I kept picturing my corpse down in a deep drop-off under my mangled bike. We launched at 10:30, and I was already ready for lunch. Launch behind the shop and paddle 11 miles downstream to the Sipsey Boat Launch. And by "retrieve" I really mean chase your boat until the river calms and they can coral it to shore. I think the low level made him a bit nervous, too, and he said he wouldnt mind backup. There is a launch point at Canyon Mouth Park and you can paddle along the river to Weiss Lake. By then it was about 7:30 and the kids were dozing. 2022 RootsRated, Inc. All rights reserved. When I went down the Sipsey last year, it was my first time so I brought *everything*. Just a little past the Hwy 33 bridge, the take-out has a concrete or rock slide-like structure that leads up to a small gravel parking area. There is a lot of wildlife to spot along the way and it can be a peaceful, relaxing trip year round. I asked a couple of questions to try to get an idea of how experienced they were at rivers. Josh and family had a tandem sit-in kayak, a solo sit-in kayak, and a whitewater kayak. It was definitely not much of a swimmer. It was frozen up pretty solid. Davy and I took turns corralling it to shore while our unfortunate friend floated down to catch up with us. It has everything an experienced paddler could want, making it one of the most well-known destinations for whitewater in Alabama, with numerous Class III and IV rapid sections. The most spectacular rock bluffs of the day were right around the bend from the takeout. Railroad Fork on the Flint River may be fickle, and you have to explore some to find the right spots, but thats what draws some people to whitewater kayaking. The whole trip took about 6 hours including a couple generous breaks to explore. We have had clients make the trip much faster (2.5 hours), but we have had some who take a little bit longer (12 hours). When the river is so low that my empty canoe drags bottom, that really says something. Experienced adventurers will enjoy the laid-back nature of the river and will get a rush from the rough patches. We dont think youll have trouble finding those on your own. 5 Easy Hikes Near Birmingham to Help Shake Out the Winter Funk, 4 Top Reasons to Get Your Kids Outside this Winterand What to Do When Youre There, The Best Places to Go Hammock Camping in Alabama, How to Safely Train for Your Next Alabama Race in the Heat.
Sitemap 17