Canoeists and kayakers advice needed!

[Smudge]

I haven't been canoeing since my army days but I've just bought a Sevylor Colorado to do some river exploring camping trips. I'm looking for any scenic rivers or grade 2/3 rapids anywhere round yorkshire or north wales. I don't mind riding or train for a couple of hours to get to a good spot. my first trip is to Hull via the river calder then catch the train back home.

[The Idle Biker]

I've always fancied doing something like this. The thought of a day or two kayaking on the river, spot of camping or fishing, few beers, lovely. As an aside though...and I hesitate to ask but........you take the canoe back on the train confused::confused:

[JamesMio]

Step forward Mr Luckypants... This looks like for yoohooo!!

[Bluefish]

Feck that riding with a canoe strapped to your back ;)

[Smudge]

It's a Sevylor Colorado rigid inflatable so it fits into my burgan so I can carry it on my back. I thought I heard Mike talking to Baph about sea kayaking a few years ago.

[xXBADGERXx]

Mr Pants is your man for Aquatic shenanigans

[Luckypants]

Blimey Smudge, get your OS map out and look for blue squiggly lines! :o Yorkshire and N. Wales were my stamping grounds and there is loads to run at. The problem I have is that I would be looking for wild water but you are probably wanting something a little more gentle. Here is a few to get you started...

River Ure, Wensleydale - one or two rapids but nothing over grade 3, except Aysgarth Falls (easily portaged by footpath on true river left) and Redmire Force (portage over rocks on river right)
River Wharfe between Hubberhome and Otley- Mainly flat with a few shingle rapids, but some notable rapids/falls to avoid. Most are easily spotted, but look out for Connistone Falls, Linton Falls and Appletreewick Falls.
River Lune - From Kirby Stephen down should be suitable.

I would suggest you buy this http://www.amazon.co.uk/Yorkshire-Rivers-Canoeists-Mike-Twiggs/dp/1871890160 but it is a bit pricey. I have a copy that is not used, PM me your address and I'll post it out to you.

[Luckypants]

Oh yeah, I forgot, this is great resource online, but by it's nature tends to concentrate on white water....

http://www.ukriversguidebook.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2:rivers&catid=2&Itemid=107

[Luckypants]

Finally, buy the correct safety gear, learn to self rescue yourself and your kit, tell folks where you will be, be sensible, wipe your nose, wash your hands, blah, blah, safety blah, blah... You're a big boy and quite sensible, but don't be one of them dicks we hear about needing to be rescued due to lack of preparation. :cool:

Have fun!

[yorkie_chris]

Looks fun!

[Smudge]

Awesome Mike cheers mate PMd you