Edge of the World

Edge of the World is the largest and most well known rapid on the Lower Amicalola. During summer months, you will typically find the locals camped out on the ledges of the rapid and swimming the lines, reminiscent of Bull Sluice. At levels of 1.1- 1.3 this rapid is a solid III+, dropping approximately 40 feet in the span of 75 yards. At this level, the moves are mostly slots and make a good training rapid for beginners working on their creeking moves. Its a good park and huck also paddling down from bridge and running laps. At levels of 1.4-1.8 +/-, the water becomes much pushier and the level bumps up to a solid IV. At levels over 1.8, the classic lines begin to wash out and new hydraulics develop. If you are accustomed to running this rapid at the classic level of 1.1-1.5, this is a definite re-scout over 1.8. You will recognize the start of this rapid by the well-defined horizon line and large amount of wood present at the top center and right of the rapid. If water level is high get out on sandy beach area 300 yards or so before rapids on left. There is a boardwalk and you can walk down and scout.The rapid consists of two widely spaced ledges followed by a six foot near vertical drop and then a series of slides. Classic line is to run 20ft +/- off the left bank. Hit the first ledge with some left angle to catch the eddy or some right angle to continue down stream. Follow the moving water towards the second ledge and either run it straight or hit the boof, at levels over 1.2, (this ledge is the one that becomes the problem at higher levels). Be aware of the boat gouging line to the left of the boof. After this, run hard to the right bank and hit the vertical slot. Move left and run the final slide . At levels over 1.4 or so, it is possible to run the slide to the left of the vertical slot. Additionally, the river left line below the second ledge is runnable but not advisable due to a large amount of wood and an undercut rock on the left bank. If you catch the level right, a good surf wave develops below the second ledge and before the vertical slot.