Clearwater,

River Description

SEASON: Winter rain storms.

ACCESS: If you're coming from the south along Highway 101, turn at mile 147.0 onto the Hoh-Clearwater Mainline Road (the sign here shows it as Clearwater Road) and head east as it parallels the river upstream. If you're coming from the north along Highway 101, turn at mile 176.0 turn onto the Hoh-Clearwater Mainline Road (signed as Clearwater Correction Center Road). From either direction stay on the mainline road (from the south it's 13.7 miles) until you reach the turn for Bull Trout Road (C-3000) which is right near the point where you cross the Snahapish River. Follow this road 3.5 miles to the bridge across the Clearwater or take out at the DNR Clearwater Campground on downstream river right. To reach the put-in return to the mainline road and turn right headed northeast and then at the Olympic Correction Center turn east onto the Upper Clearwater Road (C-2000). Follow this road about 12 miles to the put-in where the river comes up against the road. Note however that in recent years the road has been gated about 8 miles up so you will need to hike the last few miles (the road is good so bring your cart if you want to make it easier). You can call the Olympic Region DNR office at 360-374-6131 for current road conditions.

DESCRIPTION:

Good run with high marks for scenery. The start and finish are a little slow, but in the middle the river cuts through a narrow gorge with some great drops and mind-blowing scenery. Scouting can be difficult and at higher water the entrance may push class V.

lat/long approximated by Tiger map server

for additional information see

• Korb, G. 1997. A paddlers guide to the Olympic Peninsula. third edition.
• local expert: Gary Korb & Carol Volk, 4930 Geiger Road, Port Orchard, WA 98366, 206-876-6780