The Suran in winter, seen by Simon Hurion
Gear(s) used
In the heart of winter 2025, Simon Hurion, author of the blog The Weekend Warrior, set out on a bold micro-adventure: paddling down the Suran River by packraft, a little-known river winding between Ain and Jura.
The Suran River rises in the Jura region near Loisia and stretches for approximately 76 kilometers before flowing into the Ain River at Chavannes-sur-Suran. Its winding course and wooded banks make it an ideal playground for whitewater enthusiasts.
From the very first kilometers, Simon had to deal with tree trunks blocking the way, requiring frequent portages. The flow recorded during his descent was 11 m³/s, offering optimal conditions for paddling, although some sections demanded extra caution. The river, lined with trees, featured some impassable stretches that could easily be detected by the sound of rushing water ahead.
After a full day of paddling, Simon and his team set up camp along the banks of the Suran. The night was especially cold, with temperatures dropping to -7°C. Managing gear and timing proved crucial — especially to avoid navigating in the dark.
"Navigating in these conditions requires fully surrendering to the river — accepting getting wet, feeling cold, and getting tossed around."
This expedition on the Suran offered them an immersive experience, far from suburban or touristy rivers. Navigating the Suran in winter is like enjoying a wild escape, where every bend in the river holds its share of surprises.
Equipments
€1,562.00
€179.00