Flows are best in summer and fall, but the ever-changing channel tends to be more distinct in spring. Summer weed growth can obscure the channel in places. Veteran wasteway boaters have learned to stir mud with a paddle or watch for weeds bending downstream to help identify channel current when the route opens into sloughs or dead-ends against sand dunes. The channel can be shallow in some spots, requiring canoes to be dragged briefly over sand, especially in summer. The wasteway downstream from Dodson Road flows through state-managed land.
Sand dunes provide numerous areas for primitive camping.
The only notable hazard in the first stretch downstream from Dodson Road is a small waterfall. The option of an easy portage is on river left. Below the gauging station, you're likely to become acquainted with the thorns. A bowman can avoid them with prayer and a deft draw. The paddler in the stern might put more stock in armor.