PO Box 119, 2561 E Main St, Rte. 302
Ctr Conway, NH 03813
(603) 447-2177

rivers@sacobound.com 		 
Bob's Paddling Blog
Bob Tagiaferri

August 6, 2010

Hi paddlers,

Water levels on the Saco River can vary quite a bit depending on which section you choose to paddle and the overall conditions of the season. As we get later into the summer months and early fall, river levels tend to be at the lowest point. Not to worry, however, there is plenty of good paddling around the Saco if you keep a few things in mind. Generally speaking, as you go higher up the Saco River Valley, (predominately northwest) water levels will be lower. The river is steeper and rockier from Crawford Notch through Bartlett and North Conway. Now, there are many fun segments along this section but due to the characteristics of the river, it does not hold water as well as segments along the lower river valley. Even is late summer there are many sections that you can “pick” your way down when the water is lower on the upper river. There may be some spots you have to drag your boat. Use caution if you have to get out of your boat and scramble across rocks. There is a risk of foot entrapment and wet rocks are obviously very slippery. When the water is sufficient, usually earlier in the paddling season the grade and features of the river make for some great whitewater paddling and fun riffles. The most reliable water in our area is the section beginning at Saco Bound in Center Conway to Hiram, Maine, (42 miles). Even during the driest periods on record this section has sufficient water to paddle. One of the driest summers in recent history occurred in 2001. On August 26th the Saco stream flow was measured at 97 cubic feet per second, (cfs) as recorded in Conway. On September 18, 2001 the river bottomed out at 79 cfs, one of the lowest readings since 1959 when the river was flowing at a mere 66 cfs. To put this into perspective, the average summer flow for this time is around 200 cfs. As of this past Friday at 11 AM the Saco was measured at 442 cfs. So, currently the Saco is actually running above average. If you begin your trip below the Redstone river access location in Conway and you’re paying attention, the places you may have to drag your boat should be few and far between if at all. Look for where the river is the darkest and don’t cut your inside corners too tight. Don’t overload you boat. Obviously, the more gear you take, the lower your boat sits in the water. The great thing about lower water conditions on the Saco is all the awesome beaches that are exposed, perfect for picnicking and camping where allowed. These conditions usually correlate with the lack of bugs which is appreciated after the last 2 seasons. Water temps are in the upper 60s and lower 70. The overall conditions for this time of year are excellent. The days are definitely shorter and the back to school ads are already quite prevalent. So grab the kids and get outside! Please always show respect for the environment and those around you. Be safe and have fun.

Tell us about your weekend, send us some photos, and follow us on Facebook by clicking in the following link. CLICK HERE.

What a difference a year makes It just doesn’t get much better than this. A perfect holiday weekend forecast and perfect river conditions. Water temps along the Saco are approaching 70 degrees and the flow is at normal summer levels, about 500 cubic feet per second, (cfs) as measured near Odell Falls in Conway. The recorded river height near this location was 3.06 feet as of Friday. Most of us remember last “summer” and I use the term loosely as the weather was not very conducive for outdoor activities, at least not very often. Due to the torrential rain it was also one of the buggiest seasons I remember. Well, I am happy to report bugs have dissipated quite nicely. While out paddling during the day they are not an issue at all. I would bring the proper supplies if camping, like long sleeves and bug spray. During the evening, around the more wooded areas you may encounter a few bugs, but there’re really not a big deal at all. Last year at this time we were dealing with an especially rainy period, big surprise. The river was running about 4000 cfs and measured over 6 feet in height, that’s less than 3 feet below flood stage. This rate was nearly ten times the current flow and double the height, stark contrast to say the least. I remember contemplating building an ark at one point last summer if that helps to jog your memory. So let’s enjoy this weekend. Now I know there will be those that complain about the heat and humidity. I do understand being a snow lover and big fan of winter but sometime we forget so quickly and don’t consider how bad it could be. Should you hear this negative perspective I suggest you remind that person that last Fourth of July, you needed insulated rain gear just to walk the dog. Remember while outdoors to respect nature and those around you. Please also remember that fireworks are illegal in the state of Maine no matter where you got them. My suggestion is to shut off anything electronic gab the kids and get outside! Be safe and have an enjoyable holiday weekend. God bless America!

Tell us about your weekend, send us some photos, and follow us on Facebook by clicking in the following link. Saco Bound Outdoors | Create Your Badge
">CLICK HERE.

Memorial Day Wekend

Here it is Memorial weekend and the unofficial start of summer. The Red Sox are showing signs of life and all the kids are looking forward to the last day of school just like some of their teachers, I’m sure. Tevas and Crocks are replacing Uggs and Sorels as shorts start to replace jeans. The last bits of snow are melting from high up in the Presidentials, flowing down to the valley below. We all have a list of things we definitely need to do by summer’s end. Certainly on this list many would have to consider an excursion on the Saco River and right now, conditions are excellent.

Water temps are in the upper 50s and the flow is moderate, classified near summer levels which is somewhat atypical for this time of year. Even the bugs aren’t too bad. While you’re out paddling the pesky little critters are not an issue at all. If you’re camping be prepared with good bug dope, a nice fire and maybe some long sleeves. These few things will make your evening much more enjoyable. I always like to touch on a few rules of the river as we get into a new season. First and foremost, be respectful of the environment and those around you. Most of the property associated with the river is privately owned. If it’s posted “no trespassing” don’t trespass. It’s that simple. If you plan to camp, consider a commercial facility, there are many great ones along the Saco. For just a few bucks you get cool little things like picnic tables, fire rings, outhouses and other amenities as well. These items can make “roughing it” a bit more comfortable. Open camping is allowed on sandbars and beaches from Swans Falls in Fryeburg, Maine to Hiram, about 40 miles or so. Once again, this privilege is allowed only where the land is not posted. You are totally responsible for packing out all you bring in and disposing of human waste properly. A Maine State fire permit is required for all open fires. Finally, have a plan and check conditions before heading out. Contact a local outfitter, do some research on the web or get a guide book to assist in planning. Many people often under estimate the time an excursion might take on the river. A 15 minute car ride down route 302 can be on overnight trip on parts of the Saco. Usually, around 10 or 15 miles is a good day’s paddle for most recreational Saco River users with a loaded canoe. The forecast looks pretty sweet for the weekend. It should be a great kickoff to the summer. Be safe no matter what you do and join us in remembering all those who made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our way of life. Raise a toast to them with your beverage of choice and have fun!

Tell us about your weekend, send us some photos, and follow us on Facebook by clicking in the following link. Saco Bound Outdoors | Create Your Badge

Have fun and paddle safe,

Bob Tagliaferri
Bob's Paddling Blog
Conway, New Hampshire
Old Town Canoes Sales - Buy Old Town Kayaks - North Conway Canoe Kayak Rentals - New Hampshire Canoe Trip - Fishing Kayaks

Copyright © 2010 Saco Bound all rights reserved.

Web design, maintainance and hosting by CamberSoft, Inc. - www.cambersoft.com