05/14/2026
High water can be a fun time for whitewater enthusiasts. But for the average river-goer, it’s not the best time to be on the water. The river moves with force and things happen quickly. And it’s definitely not a time you want your dogs to swim in the river. In our region, there have been multiple recent high water drownings of people trying to save their dogs.
These clips honestly aren’t the greatest representation of high water—I didn’t have many bc it’s usually not the time I’m on the river. 🤷♀️ But you get the point, right? If the river seems too high or currents seem too strong for your skill/comfort level, postpone your trip until flows drop, or find a calmer piece of water.
If we get into the weeds, there are a few scenarios in which higher water can be safer for boating—fewer exposed rocks, or more room to avoid obstructions. But again, the data tells us this is still the most dangerous time on the river.
P.S. I somehow get a lot of negative comments on safety oriented videos. If this seems obvious to you, this video isn’t for you. Again, after working on the river, I was completely surprised by how many floaters don’t understand basic river safety. When I was a teenager, a friend drowned swimming in a high river. He couldn’t fight the current and was swept into a log jam. This topic has always felt personal and important.
