Thanks Al!
Saweeet!!! Al's got a planning thread started!
Your proposition sounds great Al. I'm really looking forward to running the Pine again. That being said the elite members of the
Appalachian Ridgerunner Supreme Expedition Squad would like to cordially invite all Adventurist to a river float through the Pennsylvanian Grand Canyon as we traverse down the scenic Pine Creek Gorge. This float will occur Saturday May 10th with probably some shenanigans to be announced for the 11th. Pine Creek flows through the Tioga State Forest and is one of the premier touring rivers in the state with constant troughs and small standing waves to play in. Class II rapids can be expected and depending on water conditions one Class III section. This trip is best with kayaks or experienced canoe paddlers. Unexpected swimming should be expected so please consider the gear that you are hauling in your boat as you might not get it back. Like all ARSES trips you are responsible for yourself, your gear and your experience, while we'll be glad to help we don't do any hand holding here.
Here is the standard A.R.S.E.S. recommended paddling gear guidelines...
What to bring on an a Float trip for those who are new to river runs.
#1. A boat…this will make your river run experience more enjoyable. And you will have less rock rash on your tush at the end of the trip. Kayaks and canoes (piloted by
experienced paddlers) are both good for this trip.
#2. Paddles…and I like to bring a spare just in case one gets lost. Being up a creek without a paddle stinks. Not everyone needs a spare, just so there’s a few floating around the fleet.
#3. Life Vest…Preferably one suited to canoeing and kayaking. No instant PDFs. BTW,
wearing a life vest at all times while on the river will be mandatory no matter how well you can swim. Give us crap about it and we'll definitely see how well you can swim.
#4. A Hat…the reflecting sun on a river can get your neck or possibly your head a good burn. Cheap sunglasses that you won’t cry over if they get washed away are a good item to have also.
#5. Dry Bags…for storing some spare clothes or a light jacket so that they stay dry. If you stuff them into the bow or stern of your boat they’ll add some additional floatation. Bringing a towel along isn't a bad idea either.
#6. Lashings…rope, bungees, straps or what not. Lashing your stuff into your boat so that it will stay put in the event of a dunk saves a lot of hassle.
#8. Food and Water…well you will get thirsty and hungry on an 8 hour float and I ain’t gonna feed you mine. Try and take my sandwich and I’ll roll you around in the river son.
#9. A Good Attitude…this will make any journey better. Just because it says float in the title doesn't mean you won’t be working your tuckus off paddling. Water levels will have a big say in the flavor of the float. It’s like Goldilocks…too much flow and it with be Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, too little flow and you’ll be doing some walking, and if it’s just right we’ll have a nice relaxing day with spurts of excitement. I’m fine with any of them as a day on a river is way better than a day at work no matter what the conditions. And remember once you start down the river there’s no going back. Unexpected stuff might happen but we are a helpful bunch and will aid you in any way we can. Oh, if you dunk or straddle a rock you’re gonna get teased but that’s just a sign we like you. The people we aren't wild about get the polite treatment.
#10. A PA DCNR Launch Permit for each of your boats. Thes can be found on the PA DCNR website for either one or two years worth of coverage. They’re just a few bucks and will save you some possible hassling by a Fish Warden. Here's the
link for acquiring a launch permit.
As is tradition on planning trips when the A.R.S.E.S are involved I expect some major shenanigans and thread drift to keep this fun. Post up your thoughts, questions or comments and let’s get this rollin’.
This Weekend is sponsored by the following:
And the...
Orginal Bed Cargo Divider with SpeedHoles*
"When Quality Matters."
And thanks again to Al for getting this all rolling....I wanna go