Canyon Creek (Lewis River trib.)

Commonly referred to as Upper Canyon Creek, this section of Canyon Creek lacks the clean watefalls and ledges found in the lower section but contains lots of fun rapids for experienced paddlers. The scenery is outstanding throughout the run.

At the putin, scout Twin Falls to see if it is clean of wood and if so, decide if you want to run it or putin just downstream near the bridge. Once on the river below the falls, there are some nice warmup rapids before the gorge walls start to close in and the gradient picks up dramatically. The first long, steep boulder garden can be scouted on the left which also gives you a view of the unportageable rapid around the corner. Scout both for wood. The rapids continue as you work your way downstream. Be on the lookout for a clear horizon line on a sharp right turn. Eddy out on the left to scout and probably portage Marble Stairs, a very difficult rapid. There is an easy portage along the rocks on the left. Downstream of Marble Stairs are more great rapids until the gorge walls peal back and the gradent decreases dramtically.

This section of the river is much more open than upstream and contains a lot of playful Class 3 rapids with a couple harder rapids here and there. About a mile and a half upstream of Fly Creek is the last big rapid, Final Exam.

For additional information:

• Upper Canyon Creek on Jason Rackley's Oregon Kayaking site.
• Bennett, J. and T. Bennett. 1997. A guide to the whitewater rivers of Washington, second edition. Swiftwater Publishing. Portland, OR.

Lat/Longitude data are very approximate.