Jordan Creek,
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Headwaters to Wilson River
Class III+(IV)
6.5 Miles
Avg Gradient 120 fpm
Max Gradient 160 fpm
Gauge Information
River Description
This is a great place for up and coming paddlers to learn safe creek boating skills. Follow the
signs to Jordan Creek ORV area off of Highway 6 in Oregon.
There are mile markers along the way. Above mile 6.5 is a rare vein of Granite in an otherwise
Basalt canyon. Class V rapids and a very steep gradient above this point. A difficult seal launch
into a pool below the granite leads paddlers into a mini gorge with short drops. A significant
ledge occurs less than 1 mile downstream. It cannot be see from the road, and poses a dangerous
hydraulic at medium to high flows. Difficult scout and portage. After this point there are tons of
Class III drops and long stretches of Class II water. Most rapids can be scouted on the drive up.
Put in as high as water and comfort levels permit.
The last mile is a classic. The river drops nearly 100' here and has close to a dozen Class III
Rapids. Several long boulder slides, and medium sized ledges provide great action for intermediate
paddlers. Drops of interest include: Bomb Shelter, here the river builds from Class II into fast
Class III demanding a strong move into an eddy (the bomb shelter) to avoid a large rock.
Immediately after that is a fun set of ledges called "Hick Rock Falls" after the rocks thrown at me
be some locals on the top of the canyon. Look out. After a few more Class III's is Balls to the
Wall, a fast set of big waves down the left wall. Don't worry--there is no hole at the bottom, I
promise. A final Class III drops paddlers onto the most likely swollen Wilson. Like an ocean after
Jordan Creek. Enjoy.
StreamTeam Status: Not Verified
Last Updated: 2002-12-03 16:34:21