Arroyo Seco,

1) Willowcreek Bridge to Arroyo Seco Picnic Area

Gauge Information

River Description

Large areas of Los Padres National Forest, including this river section, are presently closed to public access. Large wildfires in 2008 increased erosion danger, so the forest service wants people to stay out till ground cover grows out somewhat. Read the closure order and see the attached map Contact the Monterey Ranger District (King City, 831-385-5434) for further information.

Christina Starr contributes:
Arroyo Seco is one of the top class IV runs in California. Do not bother with the brushy lower sections. All the action is in the Gorge above the picnic area.

To reach the put-in, park at the upper parking lot and carry your boat around the locked gate across the dirt road. It is about a three-mile hike; not too bad, though. Put in at the Willow Creek packbridge.

The first two miles are class IV with one class V. You can scout the major rapids from river left, right after Santa Lucia Creek enters from the right.

First two miles are in a spectacular gorge and the rapids are mostly class III-IV with one class V: "MUCHOS CAJONES."

Other Information Sources:

Los Padres National Forest: Monterey Ranger District (King City, 831-385-5434)