Description
GPS: -32.7653, 115.999
Scarp Pool is a popular area in summer for swimming and canoeing. The loop road has picnic spots and good river access.
Scarp Pool forms below an old ford and is colloquially the end of the Middle Murray and the beginning of the infamous Lower Murray.
Here the river begins its steepest descent as it drops off The Darling Scarp, before reaching the flatter agricultural pastures etc. Paddling below Scarp Pool should only be attempted by experienced white water paddlers with specialist boats and safety gear. It is highly recommended that paddlers new to this river join a commercial group to make this journey. Do NOT attempt this as a novice! The annual Murray White Water Festival will use this section of river when levels permit. There is no public access / exit from this section of river until East Coolup. It is a big day out. Be warned.
UPSTREAM (Middle Murray – Baden Powell to Scarp Pool)
River level** guide
10.0 to 11.0 not paddleable
11.0 to 11.5 Suitable for novice white water paddlers, rapids Grade 2
11.5 to 12.5 Rapids become Grade 2 - 3+, suitable only for experienced river runners
12.5 to 13.5 Only for very experienced river runners such as instructors or guides. All rapids need to be scouted.
>13.5 Maximum flood. Unrunnable
*Baden Powell Water Spout (renamed Dwaalindirraap) is 4 metre drop and is graded 3+ rapid. Most paddlers will portage this obstacle unless experienced kayakers.
DOWNSTREAM – (Lower Murray – Scarp Pool to Tallathalla Road)
River level** guide
10.0-11.5 too shallow
11.5-12.5 Excellent for white water rafting and for experienced river runners. Rapids up to Grade 4+
12.5-13.5 Only for very experienced river runners such as instructors or guides. All rapids need to be scouted.
>13.5 Maximum flood. Unrunnable.
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**River levels can be obtained from the government’s Baden Powell Water Spout gauge (site 614006) at this website https://kumina.water.wa.gov.au/waterinformation/wir/reports/publish/614006/614006.htm
All river level suitability mentioned is based on the Baden Powell water gauge
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