75 Mile Rapid

75 Mile Rapid came into view as a short, punchy run tucked along a bend where the river narrowed and the current gathered its force. From upstream, we could see a tight line of waves breaking sharply across the main channel, their white crests standing out against the deep green water. As we guided the dory into position, the pace of the river quickened and the boat responded eagerly, slipping into the first wave with a crisp lift of the bow. The waves here were steep and close together, sending quick bursts of cool spray over the deck and into our faces as we held the line steady through the rapid’s core. The water surged powerfully beneath us, giving each oar stroke a satisfying weight as we adjusted our angle to stay centered. Tall cliffs rose close on either side, their dark shadows sliding across the water and adding a sense of depth and movement to the run. Though brief, 75 Mile Rapid delivered a sharp jolt of energy and focus. It was one of those fast, clean rapids that snapped us awake and left us grinning as we drifted back into the smoother water below.