South Trinity: 3 Bears

It's been a really nice winter here up north...Lots of water, warm weather, good friends and lots of paddlin!

Baby Bear

Our latest exploits took us back to an old friend, the 3 bears run.  This has been a favorite of mine since college days when I used to paddle it twice a week with Alex Wolfgram.  We were rollin in his huge 82 chrysler (boat!) with boats on top and a milkcrate strapped onto the back, usually carrying empty oly's.  Those days are gone, but the river is still the same high quality section with fun rapids, excellent playspots, beautiful scenery and a terrific bike shuttle (one of the best).  After a dismal 2009 winter where the South Trin only flowed several times, 2010 has been a major resurgence for this drainage: the longest undammed river in California.  The last week of January I teamed up with two new paddlers to the area, Drew and Ryan, as well as Miguel and Seth for an epic day on the bears.  Flow was approx 2200 in Hyampom and we all felt it was an ideal play level.

Miguel at Put-In

Seth Naman surfing First Wave

Seth Tearin up Second Wave

Wait a Minute...Are you sure it's January?

Miguel Charging Momma Bear

Ryan and Drew in Poppa Bear

The 3 Bears take-out is almost 7 miles up South Fork Rd (off HWY 299).  It is recognizable by a sign for Escot Farms, turn right and follow the left fork down to the river (at the low-water bridge).  To reach put-in continue up South Fork Rd another 5 miles, staying left at the turn for Todd Ranch.  The road starts to descend after a small hill, and take the right fork which takes you down to Surprise Creek.  Have fun and don't forget your bike!