Klickitat

The Klickitat River below Leidl Campground offers a relaxed, scenic float through south-central Washington’s oak savannah and basalt canyon landscape. Launching at Leidl, paddlers leave behind the steeper whitewater upstream and enter a broader valley where the river settles into steady Class II current. The corridor feels remote and lightly developed as the river flows through the Soda Springs Wildlife Area managed by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, with long stretches of cottonwood-lined banks, open grasslands, and occasional basalt cliffs. Wildlife sightings are common, and the clear water and moderate gradient make this reach well suited to boaters looking for an extended day on the water or a self-supported overnight trip. The best boating conditions generally occur in spring through early summer when snowmelt and seasonal rains provide sufficient flow. Higher water increases speed and wave size but can also mobilize wood, while lower water exposes rocks and channel obstructions.

From Leidl to the Old Icehouse access on Highway 142, the river maintains a gentle but continuous current with easy riffles and wave trains. While the technical difficulty is modest, paddlers should remain attentive for wood hazards. Wood tends to accumulate on outside bends and in narrower channels, particularly after high water events. Good downstream visibility and early maneuvering are key to avoiding trouble, and groups should be prepared to scout or portage if necessary. At typical spring and early summer flows, the river moves efficiently, and travel time is driven more by group pace and stops than by rapids.

Access at Leidl Campground provides an easy put-in and primitive camping. A short distance downstream, Stimpson Flats offers an intermediate access point and additional camping, making it possible to break the trip into shorter segments. The Old Icehouse access near Highway 142 serves as a reliable take-out with maintained camping facilities and p

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