Rites of Passage
Coming Home Sweet Jesus
Hell's GatesThough the plan had been to run the Russell Fork on Friday, motivation to head out early in the morning quickly diminished. With 5 degree (F) temps outside (at Matt's place in Western MD) and still pretty short winter days, it did not seem too feasible to get to paddle that day given also the long drive. So instead Matt and I decided to forgo boating and just take the day to leisurely make our way to eastern Kentucky. But of course we needed to at least spend some time outdoors so we took a slight detour through Summersville to hike the Lower Meadow.
It was running at about 450 cfs (a bit over min). We were able to hike from the first rapid (Rites of Passage) down to Coming Home Sweet Jesus. It was a gorgeous day. The river was just beautiful with the snow lining the banks, almost made me want to paddle it.... almost.
As we hiked down, Matt explained some of the lines and dangers. Coming Home looked absolutely heinous. Even at the low flow the water seemed really powerful and definitely wanting to push you into that cave! The Lower Meadow is not for me (for now)! :) Nice hike though.
Check my Lower Meadow Gallery for more photos
The cave in Coming Home
Hell's Gates
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