Eel, Middle Fork

Black Butte River to Dos Rios

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DifficultyII-III(V)
Length32.3 mi
Avg Gradient18 fpm
GaugeMf Eel R Nr Dos Rios Ca
Flow Rate as of 1 hour
258 cfsbelow recommended
Reach Info Last UpdatedNovember 30, 2023

River Description

One of the finer multi-day wilderness trips in the state! Mostly scenic Class I-II through rolling green oak woodlands and chaparral with maybe 4 Class III rapids and a longish, scrambly portage around a Class IV or V boulder garden (not too bad for packrafts). A terrific way to explore the Mendocino National Forest.

Shuttles can be arranged at the Black Butte River Ranch. Don't leave your car at Dos Rios unless it's through these folks – the area is known for car burglary and theft.

See also:

  • Menten
  • Cassady & Calhoun
  • Holbek & Stanley
  • Schwind

River Features

Put In

Distance: 0 mi

Take Out

Distance: 32 mi
Take Out

How have I never heard of this run? Totally remote, quiet. The water is gorgeous green-blue. A perfect packraft trip – they especially came in handy at the Coal Mine Falls portage.