Chelan

IMPORTANT NOTICE: You must sign up with Chelan PUD to take part in scheduled opportunities to paddle this reach.

FUN FACT: Class IV/V in a shorty, in Washington!

SEASON: Scheduled releases happen on the third weekend in September.

PUT-IN: Just below the dam on river-left, an undeveloped road and short trail approach the river. The trail ends on a wide gravel bar that provides a suitable staging area. There are parking and restroom facilities at a nearby City park.

TAKEOUT: There is a developed boat launch at Chelan Falls Park at the confluence of the Chelan and the Columbia. The park also has parking, restrooms, a large picnic shelter, and an extensive lawn for organizing/drying gear.

DESCRIPTION:

Adapted from: Boating Feasibility Assessment prepared for the Chelan Public Utility District by Bo Shelby and Doug Whittaker of Confluence Research Consulting.

The Chelan River begins below the dam operated by the Lake Chelan Hydroelectric project and continues for approximately 4 miles until it joins the tailrace of the powerhouse near the Columbia River. The run can be divided into four distinct sections:

• Section 1 is 2.3 miles of class II/III whitewater, and is characterized by a relatively wide flood plain, low gradient (approximately 55 feet/mile), and substrate comprised of large cobble and boulders.
• Section 2 is a 0.75 mile long class IV transition zone between the wider floodplain and the Gorge. It is characterized by a narrow channel, canyon walls, moderate gradient (approximately 57 feet/mile), and larger cobble and boulder substrate than Section 1. Slope instability exists in this section and boaters are asked to pass through the area quickly without stopping.
• Section 3 is 'Chelan Gorge,' which is a 0.4 mile long section of class IV and V whitewater, that is further divided into Entrance Exam,

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