Santiam, Little North

Often referred to my boaters as 'Upper Opal' this run is actually all on the Little North Santiam and is a more adventurous version of Classic Opal just downstream.  It has many of the same features as that run, but requires a hike in and has a more serious feel to it, but does not reach a difficulty that requires class V skills.  So if you have a good time on the regular run, and are curious as to what's upstream, check it out. It's best to get an early start so you can continue down to Three Pools instead of having to walk out from the Mine. It's worth doing your homework beforehand so you have an idea when to be on the look out for the more serious rapids and know the hazards of each. Mainly the shallow landing zones in Cascadios Los Ninos, the line at the difficult to scout Harvey Wallbanger, the location of Coyle's Boyle and the eddies above it, as well as the safest lines at the two ledges between Coyle's and the Mine at the Classic put-in.

Reports

Little North Santiam: Upper Opal from Into the Outside

Upper Opal description on Oregonkayaking.net

Logistics: From Highway 22 mile 23.2 turn onto Little North Santiam Road (this turn is at a flashing light on the west side of the Highway 22 bridge across the North Santiam). Head up this road paralleling the river and at mile 16.9 where the road comes to a Y turn right onto Forest Road 2207. Follow this road down 0.7 mile to 3 Pools which is the take-out. To reach the put-in head back up to the Y and this time take the left fork onto Forest Road 2209. Follow this road to the gate at mile 21.1. From here you will hike in to the Merten Mill historic site (put-in

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