Cedar Creek Paddle Report

Summary

The ideal streamflow range for Cedar Creek is between 400 and 1200 cfs, with the best time to paddle being in the early spring when snowmelt runoff is at its peak.

Cedar Creek is classified as a class IV-V river, with steep and technical rapids that require advanced paddling skills and experience. The segment of Cedar Creek that is typically paddled is approximately 5 miles in length, from the put-in at the Cedar Creek Bridge to the take-out at the Middle Fork American River.

The river features several challenging rapids and obstacles, including "Deadwood Falls," a steep and rocky drop that requires precise navigation, and "Chamberlain Falls," a large and complex rapid with multiple chutes and holes. Paddlers should be prepared for continuous class IV-V rapids throughout the run.

There are specific regulations in place for paddling Cedar Creek, including a permit requirement from the Auburn State Recreation Area and a mandatory safety briefing conducted by the park rangers. Additionally, paddlers are required to wear a personal flotation device at all times while on the water.

In summary, Cedar Creek is a challenging and exciting whitewater river run in California that requires advanced skills and experience. Paddlers should be prepared for steep and technical rapids, with an ideal streamflow range of 400-1200 cfs. Specific regulations are in place to ensure safety and protect the environment, including a permit requirement and mandatory safety briefing.