Brad Sisco has been talking about running the Green Narrows in NC for so long, it about made others sick of hearing it. It finally started to materialize when he stated he wanted to do the trip as part of his ‘bachelor party’. We got a crew together consisting of myself, Jonathan Glover, Jase Bouldin, and Marty Cronin.
With logistics in my lap, we decide to leave from the shop on Friday evening just after work. We load up 2 vehicles, and we head of to the east. I was able to get in touch with Jeff Tallman, who was kind enough to allow us to camp in his yard at a cabin in W. Asheville. We roll into his place around 11PM eastern time.
Saturday morning, we wake up and jump on I-26 heading east. After a quick bite to eat, we run to the take-out, load up, then head towards the put-in. We get our gear together, and start the hike down to the river. Now, out of our crew, I had the most runs logged on this run. Marty had done it once before, but didn’t remember it all that well. The other three in our group were going for their first time.
We make our way down the river, everyone pumped to get into the goods. Every rapid at the start went well, including Frankenstein. As we get to Boof or Consequence, we all get out to scout. The line looked tight, but good to go. One by one, we make the move. Snuck Go Left, and got out to take a look at Zwick’s. After a good look, we each tackle the rapid, with varying results. Chief went well, then we get out for the Gorilla portage. Got to watch an unmanned boat go sailing off the drop, but not anyone in their boat.
As we get down to Groove Tube, I realize the water level isn’t looking ‘normal’. After our portage at Sunshine, another group comes through. I ask how much time we have before the water is gone, and he replies “Too late, it already has”. Let me tell you, that paddle out wasn’t what I would consider ‘ideal’. Jonathan, Brad, and myself portaged Toliet Bowl and Hammer Factor, while Marty and Jase gave it a go. Jase did well, but Marty’s line made me fell better about the portage.
A great day overall. Now, all we can think about is when are next trip out there is going to be!
