Kayaking in Yellowstone Park - Don't do it!
A few months ago BB RidgeKid posted a thread about him and three of his teenage buddies getting ticketed for trying to kayak a waterfall in Yellowstone Park. They were subsequently charged with boating within the Park and intent to kayak. He deleted the thread soon after.
Yesterday the boys went before the U.S. Magistrate in Mammoth. The U.S. Attorney had set a plea bargain of a $500 fine, 3 years probation, and a 3 year ban from the Park. The maximum penalty for this could have been up to 6 months in jail and a $5000 fine. The boys read some well thought out statements and apologies, the judge then sentenced them to a $300 fine, 1 year probation and a 1 year ban from the park. The parents and boys were hoping for a little more leniency, especially with the probation issue. I know my son is relieved to have this finally behind him after waiting 3 months for the court appearance.
There are many who would like to see the rivers opened up to boating within the Park boundaries but until that ever happens(doubtful) beware of the consequences. I have a feeling they will get tougher on this issue.