Gauge Description:

The virtual gauge for this run provides approximate flow based on the relative area of the basin and the Skykomish at Goldbar gauge downstream. The river, specifically the upper section, becomes runnable around 3500 cfs on this gauge, but something around 5000-6000 cfs is optimal especially if you want to run the lower section. You can run this creek higher, but a few of the holes start getting a bit meaty once you're up around 8000 cfs. The Goldbar gauge is also available through the NOAA hotline 206-526-8530. At the lower range of flows the lower section is too low and at the higher range of flows the ledges in the first half become a bit more meaty while the lower section becomes significantly cleaner. Just keep in mind that although the drops clean up, the lower section has plenty of power and in many ways is more challenging than the top section.