Put In

The Put In on the Waits River in Topsham, Orange County, Vermont provides access to a significant whitewater river system. The Waits River is a large stream (Stream Order 6) with a substantial drainage area of 156 square miles and an average flow of 270.59 cubic feet per second. The river features a notable average gradient of 77.9 feet per mile, indicating consistent current and whitewater characteristics throughout much of the paddling season. With an average velocity of 1.88 feet per second, paddlers should expect moving water conditions typical of New England rivers in this region.

This put-in location serves as an access point to a 25.47-mile section of the Waits River that spans from an elevation of 721.90 meters down to 116.90 meters, providing nearly 2,000 feet of total elevation loss. The river's substantial slope and flow characteristics make it suitable for experienced paddlers seeking whitewater experiences. The proximity to the headwaters and the significant drop suggest that water levels and paddling conditions may vary seasonally, with higher flows typically occurring during spring snowmelt and after significant rainfall events.