The Walleye Magazine

Superior Whitewater

Paddling the Current River

By Gabriel Thompson

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From a paddler’s perspective, Thunder Bay is a great place to live. The region hosts a wide range of waterways, from steep creeks and playful fun rivers to challenging remote wilderness canyons. One of the best all-round rivers is the Current River, right here in the city of Thunder Bay. The combination of clean water, dependable flows, moderate to steep gradient, and interesting geology all come together to make great sections of whitewater, from challenging high-volume rapids to steep technical creeking to enjoyable sections of the river that are perfect for surfing.

Paddling on the Current River can be broken into three classic sections: the Cascades, the North Branch of the Current River, and Trowbridge Falls to Boulevard Lake. The Current River is dependent on snowpack and rainfall, so always check the water levels. The steeper Cascades and North Branch are highly dependent on optimal water flows, and they require scouting because of the steep gradient, continuous nature, and the potential for wood. If it’s too high, you might be portaging a lot. If it’s too low, you may break your boat. Go with a crew who know the lines and are competent at all aspects of paddling, including Swiftwater Rescue Training and first aid.

Locals use Superior Whitewater on Facebook as a way to connect and organize paddling together as an informal group of friends.

Trowbridge Falls to Boulevard Lake (Class 3 to 4)

Surf waves, holes, ledge drops, big ramping rapids, and easy roadside accessibility make this section the most userfriendly of the Current River. Trowbridge Falls is an excellent ledge rapid and as you go downstream, the best surf waves open up in an increasingly larger rapid with cliffs on the left that

signals you are approaching Soldier’s Hole. Get out on the right bank when you see the cliffs and use the trail. The entry rapid above Soldier’s is a series of large offset ledge holes right above. A mistake here can be consequential. Below Soldier’s, it’s all fun with play spots like the “World’s Friendliest Hole” and P & G’s Centennial footbridge.

The North Branch of the Current River (Class 3 to 4)

The North Branch is the best steep creek paddling in town. Easy road access and steep rapids that are somewhat forgiving in nature make this a classic. The larger rapids like the Dam, Staircase Falls, and Conveyer Belt are steep and consist of broken ledges and ramps with mostly continuous smaller rapids in between. It’s a perfect place to step up your paddling game for steep rapids. If you haven’t paddled the North Branch before, go with someone familiar with it, as there are ongoing access issues.

The Cascades (Class 4 to 5)

The Cascades is Thunder Bay’s steepest run, right in town. If you like throwing yourself in steep, technically unforgiving rapids after work then this is your run. Lots of steep bedrock features on this section of the Current as it cranks up the gradient with horizon lines that disappear the whole way down. There’s also beautiful scenery, and usually a host of local witnesses to see the results as you tempt fate. Notable rapids are the “Waterfall,” the “Slide, Slide, Whirlpool,” “Undercut,” and the “Thunder Bird,” a narrow, steep, constricting drop that is intimidating and not to be taken lightly. Finally, “Last Chance” comes with one last chance at redemption or carnage. All can be scouted or portaged.

If you’re new to whitewater kayaking, please do your homework. It’s super fun, challenging, and rewarding all at the same time. However, kayaking is dangerous, even if you know what you’re doing. Cold, moving water kills quickly. Many hazards exist that may not be apparent to one not trained in river reading. Don’t paddle alone, and go with people you trust. Take a Swiftwater Rescue Training Course and take professional instruction.

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2022-05-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

2022-05-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

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