Chutes

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Run Length

3-12 miles

Average Gradient

20 fpm

Difficulty

Class III

Recommended Flow

River

South Platte River, South Fork

Location

Denver, Colorado, United States

Author

Laura Hemming

Current Flow & Weather

146 cfs

N/A

Drainage

South Platte

Elevation

6620ft to 6410ft

The Chutes, also commonly referred to as Deckers, is a fun local Denver run. Although classified as a "beginner run", for the first timer it may be a tad to technical. The hardest rapid is the "Chutes". The river curves to the right then you must decide to go right or left. I've always gone right. After making the decision to go right, you'll dodge a few rocks as the river curves left again back towards the middle. At this point depending on flows there is a drop or a nice sloping tongue. If you happen to tip over here you'll have a short amount of time to roll up before the chute. Once you roll up you'll find yourself in a "room" surrounded by high rock walls. Line yourself up and get ready to head down the chute. The chute has a small hole on both the left and right sides. Just paddle, stay straight and be ready for with your braces. Be careful not to let the river slam you into the rock wall on the left at the end of the chute. If you happen to not make it through upright, never fear. There is a nice calm flat water area at the end of the chute. This is actually a great place to practice your rolls. As you move on from here the river curves left and goes through another small chute. This is a popular play spot.

You may take-out at the foot bridge or continue on to the confluence. No need to worry about the cranky, gun waiving land owner, he has moved on and is no longer a threat.

Chutes

This was at about 450 CFS.

Paddler:Sylvia Photographer:Josh Thurmond

Disclaimer

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	Put-In Road parrallels the river providing mulitple access points. Most common is 3 miles up from the foot bridge take-out.
	chutes Class I
	Take-Out NOT COMPLETE - Turn off highway 285 just south of Coniefer on S. Foxton Road (97 RD). Take this road, then turn left at S. Platte River Road (96 RD) for 14.2 miles to the confluence. Take 67 Road past the confluence of the North and South Forks of the South Platte

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Trip Report

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	Uncharacteristically high, proceed with caution.
	Powerful, pushy and unforgiving.
	Ideal flow conditions.
	Boney with potential for boat abuse.
	Not enough water to float a boat.
	Please let us know.
	No gauge, visual required.