Urban Paddle - Canceled

Directions: Going south from downtown Dallas on IH 35E, go through Oak Cliff, Lancaster, Red Oak and Waxahachie to Exit 397. Stay on the southbound service road to IH 35 until it terminates at a parking area adjacent to the creek. Park close to the creek to unload boats and gear, and then park away from the creek so as not to obstruct access for others.

Gear Requirements:

Bring boats that are suitable for flatwater, PFD's (lifejackets), paddles (a spare is recommended), a whistle or other signalling device, throwbag, clothing for cool, wet conditions, camp chair, plate(s), flatware, drinking cup and some food item to share for the potluck lunch. A small cooler for drinks may be carried in your boat, if desired. Remember your ABC's about cool weather paddling - ANYTHING BUT COTTON! Wear synthetics because they keep you warmer and wick moisture away from your body reducing the chances of hypothermia. Above all else DO NOT paddle in cotton clothing if the temperatures are below about 70 degrees!

Meals:

Bring something for the potluck lunch. Bring plenty of beverages, but remember - NO GLASS OR FOAM POLYSTYRENE STYROFOAM CONTAINERS!

Class II: Novice. Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting. Occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers. Swimmers are seldom injured and group assistance, while helpful, is seldom needed.

Class III: Intermediate. Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid and which can swamp an open canoe. Complex maneuvers in fast current and good boat control in tight passages or around ledges are often required; large waves or strainers may be present but are easily avoided. Strong eddies and powerful current effects can be found, particularly on large-volume rivers. Scouting is advisable for inexperienced parties. Injuries while swimming are rare; self-rescue is usually easy but group assistance may be required to avoid long swims.

Class IV: Advanced. Intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring precise boat handling in turbulent water. Depending on the character of the river, it may feature large, unavoidable waves and holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvers under pressure. A fast, reliable eddy turn may be needed to initiate maneuvers, scout rapids, or rest. Rapids may require "must" moves above dangerous hazards. Scouting is necessary the first time down. Risk of injury to swimmers is moderate to high, and water conditions may make self-rescue difficult. Group assistance for rescue is often essential but requires practiced skills. A strong eskimo roll is highly recommended.

Class V: Expert. Extremely long, obstructed, or very violent rapids which expose a paddler to above average endangerment. Drops may contain large, unavoidable waves and holes or steep, congested chutes with complex, demanding routes. Rapids may continue for long distances between pools, demanding a high level of fitness. What eddies exist may be small, turbulent, or difficult to reach. At the high end of the scale, several of these factors may be combined. Scouting is mandatory but often difficult. Swims are dangerous, and rescue is difficult even for experts. A very reliable eskimo roll, proper equipment, extensive experience, and practiced rescue skills are essential for survival.

Class VI: Extreme. One grade more difficult than Class V. These runs often exemplify the extremes of difficulty, unpredictability and danger. The consequences of errors are very severe and rescue may be impossible. For teams of experts only, at favorable water levels, after close personal inspection and taking all precautions. This class does not represent drops thought to be unrunnable, but may include rapids which are only occasionally run.