Head and Black Rivers, Sebright to Washago - Sat May 9th

Outing Type → 

I'm planning to do a long day trip of around 30 km starting on the Head River northeast of Sebright and continuing downstream on the Black River into the town of Washago. The first 16 km until Highway 169 a mostly flatwater section interspersed with short whitewater drops - I have not been on this section before. The next 3 km after Highway 169 is the usual whitewater play area on the Black River where the river loops around through many Class I-II rapids, ending with an optional more challenging technical chute. The final 9 km is almost all flatwater, save for a canyon with turbulent boils and standing waves, and we will end the day by paddling against the current up the Green River, where the water suddenly transitions from dark and tannin-stained to green and crystal clear.

If you want a shorter day, it's possible to take out after the whitewater play section and cut out the final 9 km of paddling. We will arrange the shuttle to accommodate everyone's preference for where they want to end the trip.

The Basics
Event Location

Head and Black Rivers, Sebright to Washago

Date(s) & Time
Event Duration
1 day
Difficulty Rating
Novice
Itinerary
Itinerary description

9 am (approx) - meet at put in, unload, and get set up

9:30 am - leave to do the shuttle

10 am (approx) - return to the put in and start paddling

 

If doing the full 30 km, expect to spend 5-6 hours on the river. The shorter trip with early take-out might be 4 hours. I have not been on the Head River section before so these times are approximate.

Required Items to Bring

Canoe capable of mild Class I-II whitewater; doesn't need to be a whitewater canoe
Dry or wet suit
Water/food for the whole day
Extra layers to put on if you get cold or wet

How to Get There
Event Directions

Put in at Sebright: 44.717678, -79.150667

Take out at Washago: 44.751980, -79.331637

Early take out: 44.718923621638844, -79.30244078893456