Disaster Falls

Also known as: Upper Disaster Falls, Disaster Falls composite

Disaster Falls is one of the early significant challenges in Lodore Canyon, encountered within the first few miles of entering the Gates of Lodore. The rapid is divided into upper and lower drops separated by a pool, allowing staged scouting and recovery zones.

Difficulty

Upper Disaster is typically Class III — a powerful entrance move with lateral waves. Lower Disaster follows quickly and is the more technical challenge. Scout from river left.

The water

Character: pool-drop.

Features: boulder garden entrance; lateral waves; divided into upper and lower drops.

Hazards: boulder sieves at low water; fast current between upper and lower drops limiting recovery time.

How it changes with flow

Low water: More rock exposure. Moves around boulders become technical and require precise lines.

Medium: Classic pool-drop character with defined lateral waves and clear lines.

High water: Features wash out and become more continuous. Fast entry reduces recovery time between drops.

Scouting

Scout both upper and lower from river left. A portage trail exists river left if needed.

Swim consequences

Moderate. Pool between upper and lower drops provides recovery opportunity, but downstream momentum can carry swimmers into Lower Disaster quickly.