Entiat
3. Lake Creek Campground to National Forest boundary (Canyon Section)
| Difficulty | IV+ |
| Length | 2.7 mi |
| Avg Gradient | 137 fpm |
| Gauge | Entiat River Near Ardenvoir, Wa |
| Flow Rate as of 57 minutes | 763 cfsbelow recommended |
| Reach Info Last Updated | May 31, 2019 |
Projects
The Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests encompass more than four million acres and are jointly managed with headquarters in Wenatchee, Washington. The rivers flowing through these forests are essential to the whitewater paddling community—both as close-to-home runs for Washington residents and as classic objectives for paddlers traveling from across [...]Read More
River Description
If you're tired of bumping plastic in the eddies on the Wenatchee, the Entiat is the exact opposite and about an 1 hr 45min drive from the Wenatchee. I lived in the Entiat Valley for the summers of 2001-2003 and the only things I saw on the river were ducks and beavers. The lack of people could have been to the low water year, but I kind of don't think so. The put in is just above the Lake Creek campground. There is a turnout and bathroom conveniently located just above the trail to the put in.
Walk approximately fifty yards down the trail to a bridge that crosses the river. You will find two nice eddies on either side of the river; this is a nice place to warm up. From the get go the river is busy. There are lots of two too four-foot boof's that are scattered throughout this top section of the river. You will gradually work your way into the canyon. I found plenty of eddies to get out and scout, but this may change at higher water.
The river is relatively continuous until Fox Creek Campground. At Fox Creek you are out of the canyon and the river mellows out too class III- II+. Keep on your toes about a quarter mile there are a few sneaky little holes that are in the middle of the river, but can be easily avoided if your eyes aren't glued to the beautiful landscape that encompasses this river. The last rapid is very fun. You can scout and easily spot this rapid just above the take out from the road. There is an awesome boof just left of center in the middle of the rapid.
I was on this river when the gauge at Ardenvoir was between 800cfs to 1800cfs. 800 cfs was fun but a little scratchy. At 1800 CFS this river is fast and furious. Just below the lake creek campground the river crashes into a wall on the right side and jogs left a river wide stopper can be found here at higher flows. I found out the hard way losing my boat and paddle. Be Careful and always boat with a buddie!!!!
From highway 2 just before you enter Wenatchee take the Chelan,
...River Features
Put In
Take Out
Trip Reports
Log in to add a reportThe Put-In as seen from Tommy Creek Trailhead bridge.
Tommy Creek Bridge seen in the background. Plenty of action, no real chance for a warmup.
There was wood in the top of this drop.
A great Rodeo Hole; located between the canyon and last drop.