Stuart Reeve posted on November 02, 2009 03:44
The Lower Walkham only seems to be paddled on Sundays by CAP. This is mostly to do with the fact it is an easier River than the Upper Dart and so is an option if the water levels have gone up or if people are too hung-over from the night before. The Lower Walkham is also only done if we are planning on just a one river day as strangely; the shuttle is twice as long as the paddle courtesy of narrow country lane and hairpin bends. A map or SAT NAV is required if you ever want to find your way back to the beginning
The Lower Walkham is described as a ‘pleasant, wooded valley with little evidence of civilization’ and has a few challenging features. The river starts gently but soon starts to steepen and become more and more interesting. We thought that the ‘Swimming is strictly prohibited ‘sign was also a nice touch. Keep an eye out for a horizon line which indicates a slot which leads into a twisty rapid.
Shortly afterwards, the Lower Walkham joins the River Tavy which has some interesting drops and wave trains.
Shortly before the end, you will see an obvious horizon line. This is a weir that can be boofed on the far left or there is a line down on the left of the river.
There is also a shallow weir between two walls which can have a small wave. It is then time to play ‘spot the get out which is near a small bridge. We have got out above the bridge on the LHS before but this seems to annoy the locals. Getting out on the RHS below the bridge is the best bet. Carry on down the river for 400m below the bridge then it is a short scramble up to the car park.
Definitely a good paddle that is forgiving enough for a hung over puke monkey but interesting enough for the nominated driver.