Río Urique - Upper Urique

Description

The upper Urique is an advanced kayaking run that flows through a canyon a little over a Kilometer deep.  This run is challenging in multiple ways.  The first problem you will have to overcome is hitting the river at the right water level.  This is still a desert region and low flows are problematic.  Other times of the year the water level is cranking in here and makes for a very dangerous run level.  The remote nature of this run adds its own consequences when mixed with the class V features in the canyon.  The last problem is this run is fairly long for a day run (over 40 KM).  This means either running the canyon fast and furious or planning on an overnight self support.

For expert paddlers looking to add to their resumes or create an adventure this river is a good candidate. Look for Spring runoff or Fall rain for best times to hit this river.

Most paddlers will choose to run the Middle Urique rather than haul out the trail at the takeout.  Since the Middle Urique is an easier section of river than the upper just pack extra supplies and make the trip another day or 2 rather than slog out of Copper Canyon.  See the Middle Urique description for more info on that run.