-- Last Updated: May-24-12 12:08 PM EST --
It's not as many spills and chills going further downstream from Phoenicia(mostly cl.1+-2), but can make for a most scenic and interesting trip. (It would require paddling down toward Boiceville/taking out at the top of the Ashokan Reservoir(We're not allowed paddle in the Res itself) But perhaps you prefer strictly the 8 mile ww action...Just something to think about.
Looks like I will be paddling the headwaters of the Susquehanna this weekend with a CT guy(Jason?)who says he's paddled with the legendary Daggermat and CT runs of that domain(Satan's Kingdom, Shepaug, et al.)
Should be some Memorial fun.
For the Esopus, maybe I'll bring "Piroguie," my homemade highly experimental ww canoe. I dunno if it's a gazelle, a pig or a death trap...
http://outdoors.webshots.com/photo/2075599770105552613cZwniO
Specs: Length=11'; Beam at waterline=28"; Rocker=8"; Extremely hard(as in, dangerously square)chines.
Parts&Cost: 2 sheets of 5mm luan plywood=$24.
4 tubes of polyurethane construction adhesive=$16.
1 roll of 3" fiberglass tape=$4
Scrap wood for breasthooks and gunnels=$0
1 qt. of red paint=$5
5 hours construction time(not counting drying)=Free
Hilarity from risk to life and limb=Priceless.
--Gotta get some serious flotation for the inside first though....Rest assured, Esquif has nothing to fear.