Hollywood Rapids

Hollywood Rapids. Class III and IV Rapids in the Heart of Richmond. , Listen to the roar of the rapids. This is Hollywood Rapid, named for the cemetery on the hill across the river. It is one of the largest rapids as the James River passes through the Fall Line., Look for drill holes in the rocks. People long utilized the power of falling water to catch fish in traps and nets anchored into the granite. The holes are the results of fisheries or quarrying efforts. Later, sluices and waterwheels were built to power the machinery on Belle isle during the industrial Revolution., The whitewater you see is the result of air bubbles termed as the water tumbles over and around the rocks. The aeration improves water quality, as the increased oxygen is utilized by plants in the river., See if you can spot the V-shaped tongues of smooth water entering the rapids. These are the safest passages and skilled boaters make use of them as they navigate this challenging rapid. Hollywood Rapid is for experienced paddlers and is unsuitable for swimming or paddling by novices. Avoid swimming near the mouth of this rapid., If you are swept into moving water, assume a safe whitewater swimmer's position: feet pointed downstream, and toes and nose up! Remain in this position until you reach calmer water and safety. Please remember to wear close-toed shoes while in the river.