High water, tight creeks, and strainers

Two of my favorite things in the world are high water and tight creeks. Whether in a raft or kayak, there is rarely a better combination. Unfortunately, this can also be a recipe for strainers and log jams.

A few days ago, Nate Pfeifer posted a terrifying point-of-view video from Lavezolla Creek in California. Nate found himself pinned against a strainer in the middle of a steep drop. Fortunately, the River Gods smiled upon him and he was able to wiggle out. But sadly this isn't always the case.

POV - Strainer on Lavezzola from Nate Pfeifer on Vimeo.

The video is pretty terrifying but is an excellent reminder to us all to always be alert and ready for the "what-ifs." We're glad everything turned out well (Nate and his crew were all pretty quick to act).

I also think it's pretty cool that he caught this all on film and shared it with the world.

Team Big Water at Grey's River, Wyoming (with our 9.5 foot raft)