Mad, Vermont, US

1st Hydro Dam to Winooski River (Lower Mad)

Usual Difficulty	II-III+(IV) (for normal flows)
Length	2 Miles
Avg. Gradient	30 fpm
Max Gradient	49 fpm

Gauge Information

Name	Range	Difficulty	Updated	Level
MAD RIVER NEAR MORETOWN, VT
usgs-04288000	300 - 1700 cfs	II-III+(IV)	83h48m	504 cfs (rc= 0.1 )

River Description

The most common class III run is the lower Mad. This is the last 2 miles, from the hydro dam to the confluence of the Winnoski river. There is one possible portage at Horseshoe falls. This is a class IV+ drop with a technical entrance and sticky recirculating hole at the bottom.

The run parallels Vermont Route 100B providing ample oppertunities to scout and access the river. Take out is 1/3 mile below the confluence of with the Winooski river on river left just upstream from Vermont Route 2.

To find the put in travel south on Vermont Route 100B from Vermont Route 2 approximatel 1.5 miles. Just before the road crosses over the Mad River take a left on a dirt road. About a 1/4 mile park on the right then hike a short distance down to the river put in just below the dam.

Technical info

Put in elevation......485'
Take out elevation....426'