Carmel
Carmel Valley to Pacific Ocean
| Difficulty | I-II |
| Length | 15 mi |
| Avg Gradient | n/a |
| Gauge | Carmel R a Robles Del Rio Ca |
| Flow Rate as of 33 minutes | 10 cfsbelow recommended |
| Reach Info Last Updated | December 5, 2023 |
This section is a nice float trip as the gradient is fairly low. However, much of the creek is lined thick with trees and brush. Logs and strainers in the fast current could be a problem along any part of the creek. Boaters should probably have excellent maneuvering skills, perhaps equal to class 2+ or class 3 whitewater skills before attempting this run. Paddling to the mouth is a great reward! Combine with the upper stretch for an overnight (never heard of anyone doing it, but I scoped a sandbar camping spot somewhere near the end of the upper run).
Other Information Sources:
Garland Ranch is a large public park with numerous hiking trails, a museum and small visitor center, water and toilets.
There is a long narrow parking area between the highway and the river. There are several access points to the water from the parking lot, though the river banks are very brushy in this section.
