A deep canyon with fantastic shapes in the basalt cliffs was the planned site of a dam, fortunately never built. 16.9 Horseshoe bend with many swallow's nests in the left bank cliffs. Dirt ranch roads become visible. 20.4 Grafitti warns you of a dangerous eroded diversion dam and falls ahead. Swift water continues.
All guidebooks warn of the hazardous diversion dam and waterfalls below take-out.
A short distance below there is a low-water crossing where most of the water goes thru tunnels in the concrete. You can find better put-in spots upstream between the highway and river. Even on Friday nights, campsites are often available at a USFS campground down a dirt road before the bridge. Shuttles are readily available by inquiring at stores in Markleeville. To reach take-out, drive north to highway 88, turn right, and descend into Nevada.