John N, Grant, A N Other
Grant and I after paddling the Upper Taff on many occasions, last June decided to walk the section above from Merthyr Vale down to Quaker Yard to scout for a future paddle when conditions permitted. We walked the majority of it and decided it was worth a paddle as soon as possible. Last Saturday we parked in Merthyr Vale at a very easy get in and set off in quite shallow water, not surprising, but nevertheless we wanted to do the paddle. The sides of the valley in this stretch are quite steep and the river banks more densely populated with trees so although the morning was sunny a lot of the river was in shade.
Along the stretch of the river are a number of rock gardens and small rapids that could probably be a bit more fun with more water, we did have to portage one section for about 10 metres, not far, and scraped by on another occasion. It is a very picturesque section with the usual Kingfishers, Herons, and although having seen mink on a number of occasions previously was surprised to have come within 10 feet of an otter.
All in all it was a pleasurable paddle but not too exciting (probably different with another 300 or 450mm of water). Main hazards are trees and fishing line. The get out at Quakers Yard adjacent to the bridge is not good, but an alternative may be found. Very much warrants another paddle in higher water. John N
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