🌞 Llangollen Canal and River Dee loop
Sunday, April 6th, 2025

We couldn’t have asked for better weather—a warm, sunny day made for perfect paddling conditions as a group of 15 club members set off for a chilled canal warm-up and a splashy whitewater finish at TNR. Though the River Dee was running low, it was ideal for our progression to whitewater group, with the paddlers on the river that day building confidence and skills in moving water.

Our cheerful crew—Gary, Daniel, David, Jenna, Chris, Ian, John, Terence, Marcus, Noah, Nick, Sarah, Nick (yes, both of them!), Sue, and Colin—pushed off along the canal under blue skies. The pace was relaxed, the banter was flowing, and the spring sunshine kept everyone smiling as we made our way upstream.

After reaching the top, we dropped into the Dee at the ever-exciting Horseshoe Weir. The low river level meant clean lines and just enough excitement for our newer paddlers without anything too gnarly. Everyone made it down with style—some with a bit more flair than others!

From there, we wound our way downstream toward TNR (formerly JJ’s or Nomad), which offered up its usual trio of fun, manageable rapids followed by the slalom course. The group took turns playing in the features, running laps, and practicing eddy turns and ferries—TNR really is the perfect playground for building whitewater skills.