Coastal Canoeist Visit the Smith River

Scott Broddus and Tom Cole of Richmond had heard about the Smith River and the Dan River Basin through a presentation given by the Dan River Basin Association.  They purchased both the Insiders Guide to the Dan and the Smith Rivers and headed down to Southern Virginia for a few days of exploration .

Scott and Tom at camp at Indian Heritage RV Park

Camping at Indian Heritage RV Park they had found a convenient base camp for their river excursions.  They paddled much of the lower Smith below Martinsville Dam and by the third day they had covered the entire river from South Martinsville access all the way to the confluence with the Dan River in Eden, NC. They even set their own shuttle on most with a bicycle.

On Friday July 2, I hooked up with Scott and Tom for a river ride on the water release from Philpott Dam to the Bassett access ramp.  What a great way to cool off on a hot day as the 45 degree temps of the river and the strong current act like natures on air conditioning.

 Scott and Tom make their way down the Smith

Scott Broddus on "Fish Camp Rapids"

Tom Cole negotiates "Fish Camp Rapids"

Another fine day on the Smith !

"I think I speak for Scott also, when I say we had a great time exploring the Smith last  week.  It was a real pleasure to meet up with the two of you and we certainly do appreciate the information about the river levels and conditions, accesses, the opportunity to paddle with Brian and of course the shuttle help from Katherine on our last day.

We look forward to getting back down your way and exploring the Dan next."

 
Thanks,

Tom