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North Fork of the St. Joe River, April 19th, 2003

By Brian Burns

This trip was originally to be on the St. Maries River in Idaho, but its level is unpredictable, so we were ready to make a change. At 500 cfs and falling, the St. Maries would be a bit bony. With the St. Joe River gaging station at Calder reading just above 4000 cfs, we decided the North Fork would have enough flow for some Class III excitement.

The day was beautiful, with a temperature in the high 50's. The water was not far removed from its solid state, so most of us elected to wear drysuits. Trip participants were Lindy Swartz, Pat McElwain, Dave Jones, and Jerry Williams, all paddling solo kayaks. Marlene Williams paddled her ducky, while Larry and Mary Wright cruised in their tandem canoe (with cover). Tom Smith and I paddled our solo canoes.

Thanks to Dolly McElwain and Tracy Wilson-Burns for providing the shuttle.

P.S. Does anyone know why that rapid is named "No Sweat"?????