View looking up to the southside rapids on the James River. River level just below 5 feet.

 

Lots of rocks at this level. Second break is visible in the distance. Level is 5 feet on the Westham gauge. You would not want to take a raft down here at this level. A kayak might work. At this level you are probably better off going to Pipeline rapids. Southside becomes more fun above 7 feet on the Westham gauge. Above 7 feet and Southside becomes a good idea because of the dangers at Pipeline at higher water. There are some issues with Southside at higher levels. The current rushes into several bridge abutments further downstream of this picture. The abutments accumulate much of strainer material. Be careful. Southside rapids are easily scouted from the floodwall.

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