Joseph Creek

Ken's review is accurate. I would like to emphasize a few points. Expert boat control and some luck are required to make it through the frequent wood hazards. Some spots combine running a class (III-IV) rapid, plus avoiding a river wide log jam, plus navigating through groves of small trees actually growing in the river channel, all at the same time.

Also, as mentioned, careful prior coordination with land owners is required for access to avoid conflict.

Finally, the river moves so fast that it is very difficult to find public property for camps without a GPS and pre-entered waypoints.

Have fun. Be safe!

Ran Joseph Creek April 16-17, 2011. Flow was dropping from 2100, highest ever flow I've seen. Launched at 550, took out at 925 after heavy rain the first night. Much wood has been re-arranged. there used to be 2 portages above Swamp creek, these were now runnable. In the section from Swamp to Peavine Creek, we had 3 portages. the first 2 were fairly obvious and quick, short portages. The third was where the old mobile home is visible on river right. A tight bend to the right with a large midstream boulder creates 2 narrow channels, both blocked with wood. Longer portage via the old road bed. Many many more strainers and logs, but nothing requiring portage at these flows. Several were river wide and would require portage at lower flows though.

One other very significant hazard 1 mile above the 2nd bridge (where the gauge and takeout are located). A fish trap in the river looks runnable, but 2 nearly invisible cables are across the river and only about 4' off the water. Very dangerous.

This is a great run, though it is not for class III boaters. the water is continuous, as is the wood, and swimmers will need to self-rescue. One of my favorite trips anywhere.