Carp (Marquette), Michigan, US |
|
| Usual Difficulty | II-III (for normal flows) |
|---|---|
| Length | 2.3 Miles |
| Avg. Gradient | 82 fpm |
| Max Gradient | 149 fpm |
This is a wonderful, fairly continuous stretch. At low to moderate flows, it may be suitable for
novice paddlers. At higher flows, it may be best reserved for aggressive
intermediate-to-advanced paddlers (with appropriate caution and safety). There are no significant
(named) drops which stand out, but the whole section is a rush if you catch it
at high water (I.E., a "full pipe")! Due to fast current, narrow and winding stream,
small to non-existent eddies, and high potential for strainers, the subjective rating of this
section (at high water) is somewhat higher than the actual rapids would otherwise merit. (That
is, the rapids still only rate class II-III, but you better have class III-IV skills and safety
awareness.)
From CR553, there is 1.6 miles of unrelenting gradient at 114FPM, before things peter out for the
flat-but-flowing 0.9mile paddle to the take-out. If the dirt road at the take-out is passable, it
is possible to drive upstream to its cul-de-sac, thus cutting out most of the flatwater. At
present there is a tree in the river and bright plastic tape tied around tree trunks at this
point on the river, providing excellent markers for this spot. The parking is a short carry up a
good path from the river.
Many boaters will combine this reach with a run on the (more challenging) upper. See Upper Carp for description
of that reach.
Flow is moderated by dams upstream of run thus increasing the window of runnability slightly.
Gauging is visual from CR553 bridge. If it looks like enough water to float your boat here, the run should be fine.
We also look at the outflow of the pipe through which water is diverted around the dam at the put-in on the upper section of this run.
At a "full pipe" this run will be a real hands-full. With a "half-pipe" the run is much more forgiving.
("Full pipe" will not really quite fill the pipe due to the upturned angle of the outflow pipe.)
| When | River/Gauge | Subject | Level | Reporter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9y291d04h26m | Carp [MI] |
Carp (Mqt) Flood Damage 2
|
Full-pipe | Rob Smage |
No rapids entered. If you know names, and locations of the rapids please contact and advise the StreamTeam member for this run. reach
state
reachlink
B) CR553 (Marquette Mtn.) to Hwy.41 (2.3 miles), Carp (Marquette) Michigan, US (mobile)
User Comments
I've been paddling most of my life. This section challenged me. The water was relatively low too. I
can't imagine this at high water; it would be sick! There were several river-wide strainers (trees)
that I had to portage around which required eddy turns to avoid them. Also I'd recommend pulling
out of the river when you reach the mountain bike bridge. There's not much more excitement
downstream from there and there are a couple of portages required; I just don't think the river
action is worth the portages. Unless Lake Superior is making good waves; then it may be worth it.
Enjoy; it's a lot of fun and beautiful scenery if you have time to look between strokes.