Current Conditions for South Fork Shenandoah River
| Updated For: | CLOSED FOR THE SEASON |
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| The River Level Is: | |
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Closed for the season
WE ARE NOW CLOSED FOR THE WINTER SEASON. We will be opening back up April 1st, 2025 to begin season 52.
If you need to reach us the best way is through email. Our email address is: somebody@downriver.com Be advised, we only check our email weekly during the off season.
Over the past two summers we have seen pretty severe drought conditions across the Shenandoah Valley which has meant low water conditions. First time that has happened two consecutive years in the over 50 years we’ve been in business. The river was still navigable in canoes and kayaks, but certainly less than ideal. We are counting on great water levels for 2025, but we are not the boss of Mother Nature.
Fishing was certainly impacted by the very high water levels from the effects of Hurricane Helene, and that coupled with the chilly water temperatures this time of year will diminish fishing action (but there are still good fishing days to be had here and there). Trouble is, the fish get to choose which days, not you!
For those doing off season paddling be smart and WEAR YOUR PFD’s (lifejackets) all the time while paddling this time of year. Hypothermia is a real danger with the cold water. And wear water wicking clothing like wool, nylon, polyester, polypropylene, or even silk (but absolutely no cotton which holds moisture and will freeze your ass).
REMINDER: stay HYDRATED, use SUNSCREEN, have adequate FOOT PROTECTION (covered toe river sandals or old sneakers)
Enjoy the Winter…….
Be advised river conditions can change rapidly with sudden storms or heavy rain in the upper watershed. Also, water temperature can vary up to 8 degrees or more in a single day.
To find out more detail about current conditions
click here to visit the Luray River Gauge
Over 5.5 feet – Too Damn High (risky)
4.0 to 5.5 feet – High (pushy)
2.4 to 4.0 feet – Normal (ideal)
2.00 to 2.4 feet – Low (slower)
Below 2.00 feet – Very Low (bumpy)
RIVER LEVEL DESCRIPTIONS
TOO DAMN HIGH
No equipment will be rented when the river is too damn high, no exceptions.
HIGH
River is swift and powerful, use extra caution at Compton Rapid, and stay in the main channel. Small rapids smoothed over. Keep those lifevests zipped up.
NORMAL
The ideal canoeing level. Lots of small rapids to play in.
LOW
Canoes will bump and scrape occasionally, and trips take a little longer. But the water is always beautifully clear.
VERY LOW
Shorten up your trip. Canoeist will have to step out of their canoes from time to time, but even at this level the river can still be quite enjoyable if you take your time.