E) Roaring Rapids: Otter Ck to W.P.S. Landing (5.3 miles)

This section of the Peshtigo has been the heart of the Wisconsin boating scene since the 70s. Three commercial rafting companies are supported by the river since the main action is roughly a mile of fairly continuous class II-III rapids (with the remainder of the run having somewhat tamer rapids and swiftwater), and is normally runnable all summer. That said, most experienced whitewater boaters will prefer levels above 5 inches at the CTH.C bridge gauge (which equates to ~350 cfs) and will find major play potential and some challenging holes at levels from 12 to 35+ inches (or roughly 750 cfs to 2000+ cfs). At high water, rafts have been known to get caught in some of the holes for hours on end and even overnight! Whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or expert, "the Pesh" is a great run. The major drops are named (with lack of imagination, originality, or flair): "1st drop", "2nd drop", "3rd drop", "Five Foot Falls", "Horserace", and "S-curve". Take-out is possible at Kosirs Rapid Rafts at the County C bridge. (This bridge has the 'boater gauge' painted on it, though to read it at high water you will have to step into the water or be in a boat on the end of your run.) Kosirs is also a convenient place to score a shuttle and a campsite. Rapids Resort Bar is all of 100 feet from the river, and welcomes kayakers. You can put in a order at the bar, tell them when you expect to be back, catch a shuttle with them, run the river, then walk up to the bar and have your lunch waiting for you! If you are not too tired, you can then catch another shuttle up for a second run.