Dates
2016 release dates: September 17th & 18th.
! Waiver to kayak !
For those new to the Chelan Gorge recreational release and all the returning sickos; a waiver must be completed and signed by each participant, 18 years or older. These waivers will be available to put-in, but if the PUD representative runs out of forms, you will not be allowed on the river. Preemptively completing the online reservation form helps not only the Chelan PUD, but also gives American Whitewater an early head count on how many participants are enroute the morning of the release. Below is the link for the reservation and waiver page on the Chelan PUD website.
If you do sign up for the release, but are unable to attend, please call or text me. The registration helps the PUD representatives know who is on the water and when everyone is out of the canyon.
Camping
Recreational users will no longer be allowed to use the large field at the put in as a camping spot. We have worn out our welcome at the horseshoe pits and I am looking into options. It’s recommended that you make prior camping arrangements, as in prior to Saturday morning. This is a small town and dirt-bagging can be very difficult in this part of Washington. All of the local campgrounds are county run and pay by the day. They are also small and tend to fill up very fast. Last year the Sheriff came by the put-in on Saturday morning, to remind us that we are not allowed to camp at the put-in. This could become a delicate situation and would look bad for American Whitewater if we do not respect the rights and wishes of this small town that is allowing us to come play in their backyard for a weekend. Please do not be “that person” this year. Make a plan and stick to it.
General info
The Chelan Gorge is awesome. If you haven't paddled it yet, I highly recommend making the journey. Tom O'keefe and American Whitewater worked very hard to secure our right to use this incredible piece of whitewater; showing up and being part of the release reinforces to the local municipality, our need as whitewater enthusiasts for access to this remote canyon.
There is a lot of media out there showing each and every single line on this run. Check them out and get stoked, but know that this is indeed a difficult class V run with some serious consequence. Pay your AW dues, know your limits, have a buddy system, and bring an extra throw bag.
Hope to see you there!
Dan Patrinellis
360-434-4616
drpatrinellis@gmail.com
