Serpentine Rapids

Serpentine Rapid came into view as the river narrowed and twisted sharply between sculpted rock walls, the current gathering speed as it funneled into a tight, winding channel. From upstream, we could see the water bending gracefully but powerfully, with waves stacking up along the bends and dark boils swirling in the eddies at the edges. We slipped the dory into the main flow, immediately feeling the boat surge forward as the current wrapped around the first curve. Quick, deliberate oar strokes kept us lined up as we navigated the tight turns, the bow lifting and falling over a series of sharp, lively waves that broke cleanly across the deck. Cold splashes of water stung our faces and echoed against the canyon walls as we threaded through the narrow chute. The dory flexed and shifted beneath us, the hull responding with strength and agility as the river’s energy pushed and pulled from all sides. Each bend revealed another quick drop and a new line to follow, keeping us fully locked into the rhythm of the rapid. When we finally broke out into the pool below, the canyon opened slightly and we drifted quietly, grins spreading across our faces. Serpentine had been fast, technical, and full of that twisting, graceful power that reminded us why every mile of this river keeps you on your toes.