Paddling The Falls of the James

by Justin Doyle, JRA's Outreach Manager

Paddlers residing in RVA are fortunate to have the James River flowing through their backyards. One of the most exciting sections of the river to paddle, The Falls of the James, begins just west of the city limits. In this section, the river drops more than one hundred feet over the course of seven beautiful miles as it enters the coastal plain. Three popular routes offer paddlers of all experience levels the opportunity to enjoy this unique section of the river: Huguenot Woods to Pony Pasture, Pony Pasture to Reedy Creek and Reedy Creek to 14^th Street.

Huguenot Woods to Pony Pasture is a flatwater paddler’s delight but be prepared to portage when approaching Williams Dam, also known as “Z-Dam.” The river flows through a fish passageway in the dam and terminates in a dangerous hydraulic where numerous people have drowned over the years. After portaging the dam, continue paddling to the Pony Pasture takeout (river right).

Pony Pasture to Reedy Creek is a fantastic paddle for intermediate paddlers looking to paddle relatively harmless rapids. This route is also a perfect warm-up paddle for experienced paddlers continuing on to the larger rapids downstream. Upon putting in at Pony Pasture (river right), paddlers will be immersed in Class I-II rapids which flow into a tranquil flatwater section. Take time to enjoy the natural beauty around you before approaching Choo Choo (Class II) from the left side of the river. After getting splashed by Choo Choo, immediately return to the right side of the river and paddle under the Boulevard Bridge, also known as the Nickel Bridge. Enter Mitchell’s Gut (Class II) in the center of the river and begin looking for a large sign with an arrow pointing in the direction of the Reedy Creek takeout (river right).

Reedy Creek to 14^th Street is a popular route for experienced paddlers seeking the thrill of Class IV rapids. This route begins on Reedy Creek, a tranquil creek that enters the James River just west of Belle Isle. After entering the James River, enter First Break rapids (Class II) through a break in the Hollywood Dam then paddle alongside Belle Isle through Approach Rapids (Class II) to Hollywood Rapids (Class IV). Enjoy the cheers from spectators on Belle Isle as you paddle through Hollywood. After passing under the Belle Isle pedestrian bridge, paddle towards the entrance of Pipeline (Class IV) on the left side of the river. Class III rapids lead to Pipeline, a popular spot for surfing and playing. The 14^th Street takeout is just downstream of Pipeline (river left).

Be sure to check river conditions before embarking on a trip! Life jackets must be worn when the river is flowing above five feet at the Richmond-Westham Gauge. Contact the James River Association’s Outreach Manager, Justin Doyle, at jdoyle@jrava.org for more information.