Coastals

I'm posting this for Nancy tonight.

This section of the James has numerous putin/takeout choices according to Ed Grove's Classic Virginia Rivers. They include Springwood, Buchanan, Arcadia, Alpine, Gilmore Mills, Natural Bridge Station.

Current conditions are canoe zero, and we want to paddle about 8 miles.
Any recommendations on which sections to paddle or avoid? Likewise, for access points parking?

I am concerned about noise from I-81 and the Buchanan quarry.

Ted/Caroline/Nancy/Shorn/JJ

The Buchanon Quarry may not be running on Saturday, if it is the noise only lasts for a few minutes. Take a look at that huge discharge pipe coming from the quarry into the river. It's pretty disquieting.

From Arcadia to Alpine is 4.2 miles with only 3 rapids but otherwise pretty country. From Alpine to Gilmore Mills is another 4.5 miles with 7 nice little rapids and pretty scenery.

To get there by road go to Natural Bridge and take Shafer Lane south towards the river. At the t-intersection turn left on Gilmore Mills Road a short distance and look on the right for a fisherman's access path that crosses the tracks to the river.

Or, at the t-intersection turn right onto Gilmore Mills road towards Alpine and follow it several miles till you see a long narrow hayfield on the left between the road and the tracks. Just past the end of that field look for a fisherman's access path on the left that goes to the river.

Thnere are several different access points along Gilmore Mills Road, so if you miss the ones I've mentioned just grab one of the others.

Have fun,
Andy