The missunderstood Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne

By Darin McQuoid

Photos

Although it may be known as one of California’s "Classic Multi Days" the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne is cursed by questionable legality and a reputation for being a better hike than kayak expedition. Not content to pass up a great opportunity to paddle this run, Chris Korbulic, Ben Stookesberry and I put on at the highest elevation of all the High Sierra runs (8600′) Most groups have done the run with flows from 400-800, but on advise from good friend and Grand Canyon vet Dustin Knapp, we put on with flows of 1200. What we found was a fair share of portaging, many miles of excellent read and run rapids, a few large rapids thrown in, and several great slides. Flying under the radar we took three days to complete the run, enjoyed nearly every moment of it, and the whole way scenery was as epic as it gets, even if you have no interest in paddling it, it would be worth the hike. On the other hand, if you love V-V+ expedition kayakng, this run a must see affair!

Darin