Hakatai Rapids

Hakatai Rapid approached with a gentle but steady rush, where the river funneled into a broad wave train scattered with submerged rocks and swirling boils. From upstream, the water shimmered in the afternoon light, its surface textured with ripples and soft eddies that hinted at the forces underneath. We guided the dory smoothly into the current, the boat picking up speed as it glided into a series of low, rolling waves. The bow rose and fell with a gentle rhythm, sending small sprays over the deck and keeping us alert as we made subtle oar strokes to thread between rocks just beneath the surface. The dory flexed lightly underfoot, the familiar creak of wood reminding us of how the boat moved with the river, absorbing every shift and push from the current. Along the canyon walls, deep red Hakatai shale layered the cliffs in rich bands, their colors deepened by the warm light and set against streaks of desert varnish and green pockets of vegetation. The rapid offered a playful, steady run that kept us engaged without the intensity of earlier challenges. As we floated into the calmer water below, the gentle momentum carried us forward and gave us a chance to breathe and take in the expansive beauty around us.