I was debating running the Lower Winni, but to Paul’s chagrin, decided that my first attempt would be better at a lower level. Instead, I ran the upper section with a group from the Boston AMC. Of course, I was the only open boater in a group with 11 kayakers.
This is an easy class I/II river. The main attraction for me (other than being out on the water on a beautiful day) was the opportunity to run the gates for the Winni Slalom, which were set up in one of the longer class II rapids. I made it through all the gates in my first attempt, missed two in my second attempt. Surprisingly, I found it easier to catch the upstream gates than some of the downstream gates. Some of the downstream gates required some fancy maneuvering or you would blow by without going through.