Calawah, N. Fork

Nearly continuous class II+ rapids through a scenic drainage that flows during winter rain storms.

Access Logistics: To reach the takeout, take Forest Road 29 (marked with a sign for Rugged Ridge Trail) as it leaves Highway 101 at mile 193.3 (about a mile north of Forks) and head east. Follow FR 29 to mile 3.6 and the bridge across the NF Calawah which is the take-out. If you're interested in the quick and efficient shuttle and minimizing your chances for an epic shuttle adventure (you can never eliminate them out here), then head back to Highway 101 and head north and then east around the Peninsula to Highway 101 mile 211.9 near Klahowya Campground, and turn south onto Copper Ranch Road (County Road 2065). In 2.2 miles from 101 you'll need to turn left to stay on Cooper Ranch Road. Continue on past the turn-off for Regume Ranch and the end of the pavement (4.4 miles from Highway 101). You're now on FR 2923. In 5.5 miles from Highway 101 take a right on the 060 spur. From this turn, it's 1.1 miles down to the put-in at Balch Bridge.

The altenate 'scenic route' which may or may not be an option depending on road conditions, would be to continue east from the take-out and at FR 29 mile 8.8 (that's 5.2 miles from the take-out bridge) take FR 2923 as it cuts up the hill away from the river. You'll drop down to a bridge over the North Fork at mile 11.6. Continue onto mile 13.0 and turn left onto spur road 060 and follow it 1.1 miles to Balch Bridge. While shorter, this route is slower. You can obtain current road information from the USFS Pacific Ranger District in Forks (360) 374-6522. The call is worth it for this one, but don't expect them to always know.