SOB Rapid

Also known as: Sobe

SOB Rapid (also known as Sobe) is the second significant whitewater feature in Split Mountain Canyon, coming near the lower section of the canyon. It provides the closing challenge before the takeout and shares the technical character of Moonshine — fast, powerful, and read-and-run for most groups.

Difficulty

Class III at moderate flows. Similar character to Moonshine — pushy entry with wave train. At high flows the entrance move becomes more critical.

The water

Character: pool-drop.

Features: powerful entrance; wave train; eddy catch at exit.

Hazards: entrance alignment critical — off-line entry can result in sideways flush.

How it changes with flow

Low water: Clean and readable. Some shallows in approach.

Medium: Good current and wave train.

High water: Entrance becomes more consequential. Scout at high water.

Scouting

Many groups run at a read-and-run. First-timers and lower-skill groups should scout from river left.

Swim consequences

Low to moderate. Take-out and recovery options are reasonable.