About the River Rauna:

• Length: 60.8 kilometres (LVM GEO land amelioration cadastre data)
• Source: Raunaisis, in the Vidzeme Upland (Dzērbene Rural Territory)
• Mouth: River Gauja
• Total elevation drop: 183 metres
• Elevation drop on boating sections: 32 metres
• Major tributaries: Līčupe, Cimziņa, Raunis, Vaive
• Within Smiltene Municipality, the River Rauna flows for approximately 32 kilometres
• Best section for boating: from Rauna Water Mill to road V187 (Rauna – Valmiera)

 

Rauna Water Mill – Road V187 (11.5 kilometres)

The route begins at Rauna Water Mill, where it is easy to enter the canal flowing from the HPP and, shortly afterwards, merge into the River Rauna itself. The first kilometres through the village of Rauna are particularly scenic – the riverbanks and riverbed are well maintained, a nature trail runs alongside the river, and several points of interest can be seen along the way. After leaving the populated area, the river becomes more rugged as fallen trees and beaver dams appear from time to time, although they are not overly frequent. Larger stones are often visible in the riverbed, forming fast-flowing sections and small rapids at higher water levels. The River Rauna winds through many gentle bends, each revealing new landscapes and views.

The route is suitable for boating during medium to high water levels; during dry periods, the water levels are too low. When the Rauna HPP is operating at full capacity, the current becomes particularly strong, and water levels rise significantly – these conditions are not suitable for beginners, so paddlers should assess their skills before setting out. At low to medium water levels, expect more obstacles and occasional grounding on stones.

For information:

• Upstream of the village of Rauna and before the confluence with the Līčupe, the river is much narrower and smaller. Although the river’s elevation, bends, and rocky bed may appeal to experienced paddlers, the large number of fallen trees and logjams makes boating impossible there.
• Downstream of road V187, the river becomes calmer, but this section also contains many difficult obstacles.