Dave Creek Paddle Report

Summary

The ideal streamflow range for this section of the river is between 500 and 1,500 cubic feet per second (cfs). At lower flows, the rapids can be rocky and technical, while at higher flows, the rapids become more powerful and challenging.

The Dave Creek section is rated as a Class III to IV section, with several rapids and obstacles that require technical skill and experience to navigate safely. The segment mileage for this section is approximately six miles, with several stretches of calm water between the rapids.

Some of the specific rapids and obstacles on the Dave Creek section include Nutcracker, a Class IV rapid with a tight chute and powerful hydraulic; Meat Grinder, a twisting rapid with several large boulders; and S-Turn, a technical rapid with a tight entrance and several drops.

There are specific regulations to the area that all visitors must follow. These include wearing a properly fitting personal flotation device (PFD), carrying a whistle and other safety equipment, and following Leave No Trace principles to reduce impact on the surrounding environment.