Photos by Silje Skorve

On Saturday morning the air was crisp and cool, with a hint of the winter that is just around the corner. The valleys surrounding Voss have turned to a rainbow of colors that range from deep greens to vivacious yellows to intense reds. The mountain tops were dusted with snow, holding a promise of a good ski season to come.

By noon the sun was out and the river was calling. Silje Skorve and fellow Fluid paddler, Hendri Coetzee, joined me for a run on the Raundalselva. The Raundal is a great river to have as a local run as at almost any water level there is a section of it that promises action packed kayaking. That day we decided to run the Lower Canyon, a tight gorge that rewards you with lots of constricted rapids and incredible scenery.

Walking down to the put-in Michelle at the top of the first drop

The run starts off with a bang with your choice of a sweet little waterfall or an enjoyable slide. The rapids that follow slowly compress until you find yourself in a dark gorge; walls on either side of you, big boulders and water so clear you can stare into the depths and make out the rock formations beneath you. All too soon the rapids start to ease and the canyon walls open up, signaling the end of the river.

Michelle and Hendri enjoying the river Hendri firing off one of the drops Coming out of the Canyon

Good friends, cold water, a beautiful day and a river to paddle followed up by a few drinks and a bit of dancing … another “best day ever” in Voss.

Good times!