South Fork of the Little Red River - Slick Rock - Canoe/Kayak Trips on Waymarking.com

Long Description:
Although there are several choices of put-ins and take-outs along this scenic river, this is by far the most enjoyable section for the average paddler. The areas upstream require a lot of rain to become runnable and are often choked by tree limbs and brush, especially near the areas being "thinned" by the USFS, while further downstream things become flatter and less scenic as you approach more civilized lands.

Although recent improvements in the road allow some passenger vehicles to make the trip (most recently accomplished the trip in a 2wd Subaru), a high-clearance vehicle is highly recommended, especially for the last mile before the put-in.

Minimum recommended water level for this section is 5.5 feet if you don't mind a bit of scraping. The least I personally recommend is 6 feet. Anything above 9 feet gets up into the trees and becomes hazardous, on top of washing out the more entertaining rapids.

Snag Rapid at N35 33.877 W92 41.390 is the only Class III rapid and is easily avoidable. At lower water levels (under 7 feet) I would consider it more Class II than III.

When you reach the low-water bridge at the take-out above the road, be wary of the culverts as they can trap a boat inside. At levels below 6 feet you can pass through them (WITH CARE!) and take out in the eddies on either side below the road. Scout these when you park your shuttle vehicle to decide if you want to try it.

USGS gauge 07075300 at Clinton, AR is the one water levels are based on.

Parking/put-in/launching information: Parking is limited at the put-in. Up to three vehicles can park near the riverbank and room for one or two more is available within reasonable walking distance. Paddling conditions to be expected: This is a scenic class II stream, but don't let the scenery distract you so much that you fail to watch out for the occasional fallen log. Difficulty of the trip: All paddlers should have basic swiftwater self-rescue skills and have some experience with avoiding rocks and strainers. Length of trip: 6 miles ~3.5 hours Portages: None required. One short, easy portage for those who wish to avoid "Snag Rapid." Permits required: Fishing permit required if fishing. Type of trip: 30 minute shuttle over gravel/dirt roads, some of which would be difficult with a low-clearance vehicle. Take-out Coordinates: N 35° 34.275 W 092° 39.762 Other information: For a slightly longer trip, and with prior permission of the land owner at Bear Hole Hollow Farm, you can add a more relaxed 3.5 miles of class I-II and take out at the Low Gap Road bridge N35 34.182 W92 37.286. The farm has a sign and is just southwest of the bridge.

Visit Instructions:
Logging waymarks in this category requires a picture of your boat and your GPS at the given parking/launching coordinates,and a brief description of your canoe/kayak trip.

Additional photos and information and/or suggestions for future waymarkers will be appreciated, but is not necessary.

Recent Visits/Logs:

There are no logs for this waymark yet.