Following the Lawrence River up into the hills, you're hemmed in by mountains on both sides with open riverbed travel the whole way. Rugged alpine country and a real sense of being well off the beaten track. The scenery is the main reason to come.

It's braided river driving, so the route shifts as the water moves the gravel and channels about. No two trips are quite the same. You're following an active river, so weather planning matters. Keep an eye on the forecast and expect conditions to differ from last time. Confident river-driving and a well-prepared vehicle are both a must.

Access needs permission, arranged at least a week ahead by phone before you head in. Plan it out, travel with others where you can, and you've got one of the wilder river runs in the area.