The 24-mile stretch downstream from Ponca is the star section on the Buffalo. Think weekend paradise. The Big South Fork is probably the most renowned paddle. The environment is densely forested sandstone canyons, lush and rugged at the same time. The North Fork ventures through a spectacular gorge.
Boulders present a rambunctious obstacle course.
Above the falls, the river is swift but placid - superlative canoe territory. Two weekends in October Russell Fork is known as the most difficult commercially run river in the East. It's the ome of the notorious El Horrendo Rapid. Don't forget, in between the times that you're defying death, to stop and look around. The scenery is staggering.