Rogue, North Fork

this is a beautiful class 3 to 3+ run with giant firs, cold clear water and depending on how you count and the flow: 6-10 class 3 rapids. When flows increase to 1,300cfs and above there are some 3+ to 4-rapids/lines in there for sure. Contrary to the text I prefer this run with over 1,200 cfs but it's still good fun down to 400cfs though the Natural Bridge run a short ways upstream channelizes better during low flows, has more rapids and is just a small step up in difficulty. The reason I like over 1,200cfs better is the rocks get covered and waves are formed. There are quite a few good waves on this run if you look for them. Over the last few years this run has collected lots of wood, including many large Douglas Firs. If this is your first time down take your time, be safe and scout downstream what you can't see to make sure your line doesn't have a tree lodge in it. Also If your flow is over a 1,000 cfs watch out for the hole on the left side of the ledge that's on a bend to the left in the first mile, It can get sticky. Summer 2011 update: many of the large Douglas Firs have washed downstream, a few remain at this time but none are of consequence...presently!