A free-flowing gorge run is only a good idea when flow, skill, craft and rescue plan all line up. This itinerary is orientation — not a live gauge, not a commercial briefing, and not a beginner float.
SourceGorgePlainsEstuaryLakes
Current park notice (confirm official)
Angusvale Track / Horton’s Crossing — vehicle ford closed
Parks Victoria reports storm landslip on Angusvale Track past the Rock Creek camp area. Vehicles cannot use the Mitchell River ford between Angusvale Track and Hortons Track. Do not attempt to cross from Hortons Track for west-side access. Rock Creek camp remains accessible via Angusvale Track / Mitchell Views Track from Mitchell River Road — confirm on the official park page before you travel.
Paddlers with appropriate craft, whitewater skills for the expected grade at the expected flow, and a party that can self-rescue. If you are new to moving water, hire a commercial operator when one is running, or choose land-based park days instead. Experiences overview: experiences. Access: Angusvale.
Level-first checklist (do this before packing the car)
Check BoM river / flood context for East Gippsland and any gauges relevant to the Mitchell.
Read recent paddler / club / operator notes if available — still verify yourself.
Confirm Parks Victoria access to put-in, take-out and any camp rules if overnighting — including whether Horton’s Crossing / internal tracks are open.
Honest skill audit of every person in the party.
If any item fails, switch to a walking day or Bairnsdale rest day.
Suggested day structure
Morning — Stage and shuttle
Position take-out vehicle first when using a two-car shuttle — only at public or park-legal points; do not use a closed river ford
Final weather and level check at put-in
Brief the party on signals, hazards and abort points
On the water
Scout when in doubt; portage when needed
Watch for wood, undercut banks and changing channels
Keep group spacing that allows rescue, not sightseeing gaps
Take-out & recovery
Exit only at planned public or park-legal points
Recover shuttle cars without blocking gates or farm access
Bairnsdale makes a practical recovery base for food and sleep
Overnight paddling camps
If camping riverside or at park sites, Parks Victoria rules apply. Self-sufficiency, Leave No Trace and fire regulations are non-negotiable. See recreation & safety.
