Running Class III Rapids on Winnipesaukee River

While up in New Hampshire visiting family, I decided to do a little whitewater kayaking. My friend Abby and I loaded up the boats and headed for the only river that was still high enough this late in the summer to provide a good ride; The Winnipesaukee. The majority of the river consists of class II and class III rapids, with one class IV section at higher levels in the spring.

This lower section of the river has 8 major rapids. They are called: 1st Dam, 2nd Dam, Snowmobile, Iron Ring, Coliseum, Railroad, Sulphite, and Zippy’s Final Plunge. They are all located along a 1 mile stretch of river, so you hit them right after each other without much of a break which makes for an exciting ride.

Abby Prepares for Coliseum

I had a close call when I hit a rock which turned me sideways in some rapids, and would have flipped if it wasn’t for another rock that braced me upright. Abby wasn’t as lucky and went into the cold water, floating through a second section of rapids without her kayak! Although bruised and battered by the rocks, she made it to the bank in one piece.

We continued on to finish the day with arms that felt like jello. Whitewater kayaking is quite a rush, and one of my favorite outdoor sports.

Psyching Ourselves Up

We were lucky to have a beautiful day for kayaking and no one else on the river. This was my first time running these rapids, and there is always something special about kayaking a new river. Not knowing what is coming up around the next bend always makes me feel like a kid in a candy store…

This lower section of the Winnepesaukee River is located in Franklin, New Hampshire. For details on the rapids, directions, and water levels, check it out here at American Whitewater. Just a little warning though, it’s not for beginners.

Special thanks to kick-ass guest photographer Abby Guinan who’s responsible for the top photo!

Watch the Video!
I actually filmed this whole crazy experience… you should see it! – Click Here for Video