First Creek, Ohio, US

Gheils Road to Todds Fork

Mark B. at ledge after bridge

Mark B. at ledge after bridge
Photo taken 06/09/08

Gauge Information

River Description

This run is a delightful and scenic Class II-III run. It starts off as a very mild class I stream for the first mile and a half, with two probable portages due to bad strainers. Chances of paddlers hiking and cleaning this creek are highly unlikely, so expect these trees to stay put for some time.

About a half mile after passing the first bridge, the creek finally starts to pick it up a little bit. When you see a gigantic mustard color mansion on river left, the first ledge appears. It's a small double ledge that is easily run anywhere. Not long after that, the first horizon line comes into view. This is the largest drop on the creek. Easily run with 3 or 4 fun lines, a sweet boof is located just left of center.

The creek continues with boogie water down to the next big ledge. When you see the next bridge, you'll know it's coming. A visible horizon line is apparent and you should have the line picked out ahead of time. This drop is the bad one you've probably already scouted while running shuttle. You've probably already decided whether or not to run it, too. There is only one safe way to run this drop, (other than sliding up on the right bank and pushing yourself over the ledge) and that is down a noticeable spout on river right. If you don't run it there, you're probably gonna spend some time in the hole. A ten foot log was seen on one occasion, doing cartwheels in the hole for over twenty minutes. Get your boof stroke on 'cause you're gonna need it. This is a good place to set safety if you're gonna try running this thing at higher levels.

The run is almost over. There is just a half mile of non-stop action with some small ledges and a couple of fun surf/play spots. Enjoy!