I was just reading some comments about rafting on the San Juan. Since the river frequently flashes this time of year, people were giving advice on how to anchor your boat. Some say don’t tie up to the trees / tamarisk, only use a sandstake. Some say tie a line from the front of your boat way up high on the beach, with a second line on your stern to something else. Some say have all boats tie their bows high up on the beach and then tie all your rafts together, frame to frame. I was under the impression that in a flood, if a sandstake is underwater, it can very easily work itself loose. I’m thinking the first rule is don’t park your rafts immediately downstream of a side canyon. After that, I’m not sure what’s best. I’m just looking for advice based on experience what works / what doesn’t.
Great question! Like most everything, the answer is “it depends.” Here are some thoughts:
- I normally tie up to a tree “five and alive” (five inches in diameter) or a very large rock with either a two half hitches or a taught line hitch on a bight. If I want extra staying power I might do one extra wrap around the tree.
- Marrying boats is great to stabilize them and as a back up for the main tie up.
- If I’m worried about river flows changing I’ll tie at least one boat up (assuming they are all married) to a super solid anchor well above where the water could rise up to. This extra distance usually requires a throw bag.
- Sand stakes are great on desert rivers and rivers with big sandy beaches. If you’re worried about water levels changing a back up is certainly a great idea.
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I second Zach’s sentiment on “Marrying” rafts. Then if one anchor fails you’ve got so many back-ups. It also cuts down the potential for injuries hopping from raft to raft at camp.
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