The Youghiogheny in western Maryland's Garrett County offers the state's premier whitewater experience.
The pristine scenery, the miles of continuous whitewater, the unique play spots, the accessibility to large metropolitan areas (Pittsburgh, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C.), and the dam-released flows all combine to make this river a classic expert whitewater run.
The Top Yough is a short, exciting stretch, with some two miles of blue-ribbon whitewater, much of it Class IV and some of it Class V.
The Upper Yough is unquestionably Maryland's ultimate whitewater run. Longer and tougher than the Top Yough, it should be attempted only by expert boaters accompanied by someone who knows the river.
By the time it crosses the Pennsylvania border, the Yough mellows out considerably, and is entirely appropriate for intermediates.
The following article tells you what to expect — and to avoid! — along the Top, Upper and Lower Yough.
© Article copyright Menasha Ridge Press. All rights reserved.
