Disclaimers and Other Serious Matters
7-25-2003
Reliance on this material -- DO NOT rely solely on the information on this web site to attempt a trip on any of these rivers! Consult with local authorities or the other sources we have suggested to ensure that the trip is possible. If you are unable to get authoritative current information from local authorities or outfitters, scout the trip yourself before starting out.
Safety -- Water sports are inherently risky activities. If you get into a mishap while canoeing on a river, you can die by drowning or hypothermia. There are other risks associated with wilderness camping including snake bite, heat illnesses, hunting accidents, falls, and other injuries. Understand these risks before you venture out.
Private Property -- Most of the property along the river is in private ownership, sometimes right down to the water's edge. We do not condone, encourage, or advise you to trespass. You need to understand the rules involving trespassing on private land and obey the law in all cases.
Experience Level -- Virtually all the rivers described on this web site can be canoed by someone with intermediate level experience. Where we think there might be an exception, it is mentioned. Intermediate level of experience means that you can handle a canoe in fast moving water, including ferrying and back paddling to avoid obstacles. You can land a canoe in swift current, and you know how to read and negotiate class II rapids. You know how to deal with strong winds on open water. You know the techniques for recovering a swamped canoe. If you don't have this level of experience, don't go on a week long float trip without someone who does.
