Drysdale Falls
| Class: III,IV | Length: Park’n’Huck |
| Location: | Character: 40ft waterfall |
| Gauge: Water Guage | Contributor: Kelsey Thompson |
Warning
There have been multiple fatalities at this waterfall, caution should be taken if it is attempted.This 40 foot waterfall located on Bailey’s Brook is one of the cleanest in the province. Situated just around the corner from the Folly River this waterfall is an excellent addition to a high water run.
With very little Whitewater on the river other than the falls, Drysdale is the definition of park and huck, especially with a sandy beach to take out on and stairs cut out of the bank that take you back to the top. Just above the waterfall is a five foot ledge that is at 90 degrees to the main drop making the lead in a bit trickier.
Note: Although the falls have been open to the public in the past they have recently been closed because of people being disrespectful, leaving broken bottles and vandalizing property. The falls are on private property so if you plan on going to them be sure to keep a low profile and be respectful, especially in summer…the RCMP have given tickets!
Hazards
Access
From Halifax: Take Highway 102 to Truro, exit right (#14A) onto Onslow Street towards Tatamagouche. Turn left onto Route 311 North to the town of “The Falls”. Turn left and follow Route 256 to the bridge over Bailey’s Brook; back track and park on the side of the road just after passing over the river, there should be an old gravel pit on your right. From here there is a trail up to the falls, about a 5 minute walk upstream.
From New Brunswick: Take highway 104 to Nova Scotia. Take the Wentworth Valley Scenic Loop exit (# 7). Turn Left towards Ski Wentworth. Turn left onto Route 246 towards New Annan. Turn right onto Route 256. Drive past Willow Church Road then look for Bailey’s Brook.
Park on the side of the road just after passing over the river, there should be an old gravel pit on your right. From here there is a trail up to the falls, about a 5 minute walk upstream.
Gauge
Use Great Village River Scribble Hill, this isn’t directly linked to Bailey’s Brook but is in the area and usually a good indication. Anywhere above 1.5 is run able but not ideal, aim to do this one at flood, the higher the better! This is checked hourly by @whitewaterns, if it’s up it’ll tweet about it.