The Only Way (OUT) is Up

Submitted by Mylo Nicholas

In September when the rivers are low, there can still be sections left to explore. The Arc River, in the Maurienne Valley (French Alps), is not frequently paddled, due to restricted sections and dam controls, but can offer some incredible whitewater, and portaging… Our friend Lou gave us some beta on the gorge, as he went to explore it by Packraft the week before. He showed us some photos, and told us there was a possible unrunnable rapid in the gorge, he had gotten out before this. After a day of scouting, we thought the gorge was all good to go, so we dived in. We had prepared for an escape plan, so we felt confident. What awaited us was one of the most scenic gorges we have ever paddled, with clear blue water, and a plenty of great rapids.