The Upper Pine is a very scenic stretch of river that is perfect for first-time boaters, fishermen, and those who want an easier time paddling.  It is shorter and also more convenient than the canyon section.  Some even prefer this stretch over the canyon. 

It is the most highly recommended part of Pine Creek at low water levels (below 2 ft), and is gaining popularity for its own unique features.  Most of the rapids are smaller class I / II rapids that are generally easy to navigate, even by those with little or no experience.

Departures for Upper Pine trips are between 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. 

 

 

Parking:

Park at here at Pine Creek Outfitters.  We can transport you and the equipment upstream to start at one of the access areas.  You float back here and end at Pine Creek Outfitters.  Easy and convenient. 

No parking at Rexford, very limited parking at Gaines (3 spaces) and Watrous (6 spaces).  Please use these access areas for loading / unloading purposes only. 

 

 

THE UPPER PINE

RESERVATIONS:

We highly recommend reserving any equipment or shuttle services in advance.  We accept walk-ins too, but it does help a lot to make advanced reservations.  We recommend reserving 2 weeks or more in advance in spring, and a few days in advance in summer.  

NORMAL PADDLING SEASON is MARCH—MAY:

Pine Creek can often be too low for paddling during summer and fall, so plan your river trips for spring.  In March, the rapids are usually at their biggest and the river level is high.  By April, most snow has melted and Pine Creek requires more rainfall.  By May, Pine Creek is completely dependent on rainfall to sustain levels. Don’t be afraid to go early in the spring season, it’s the best time to go.

WHAT TO WEAR IN SPRING:

The river is always cold (even in late May).  RENT A WETSUIT which virtually eliminates the danger of hypothermia.  Wetsuits can be worn with additional layers of clothing (long underwear, fleece, wool, etc.).  “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong outfit!”

SUMMER AND FALL BOATING:

Sometimes it happens, but you can never know when or for how long.  Planning for summer boating in advance is almost impossible.  You should plan for activities like biking and hiking as summer alternatives.  Check the river conditions about 2 to 3 days before your trip.

UPPER PINE RENTAL &

SHUTTLE RATES (per person):

(Includes paddles, PFDs, and SHUTTLE SERVICE)

prices per person

Canoe or Raft

Kayak

Rexford, 5 miles

1 to 2 hours

$18

$22

Gaines, 8 miles

2 to 3 hours

$20

$24

Watrous, 10 miles

3 to 4 hours

$22

$26

Galeton, 13 miles

4 to 5 hours

$24

$28

GUIDED KAYAKING (3 hours):

(Includes boat rental, shuttle, and guide)

prices per person

1 - 4 people

5 or more

Guided Trip

$45/person

$42/person

Wetsuit Rental (recommended)

+ $10

+ $8