The Clackamas River in Oregon offers excellent kayak surf spots for adventure enthusiasts. With its year-round flow and easy roadside access, the Clackamas River provides a stunning backdrop for kayaking. The Upper Clackamas features high-quality rapids, scenic vistas, and even a roadside playspot known as Bob’s Hole. It is a popular destination for kayakers and offers opportunities for both playboating and safety boating.
Upper Clackamas River – Scenic Beauty and Bob’s Hole
The Upper Clackamas River in Oregon is renowned for its picturesque beauty. Paddlers can enjoy the sight of steep rocky walls, clear water, and stunning scenery as they navigate the river. The Upper Clackamas also features Bob’s Hole, a famous playspot that is part of the national whitewater rodeo series. It provides an exciting and challenging experience for kayakers and adds to the overall allure of the river.
Experience the Upper Clackamas River’s scenic beauty and discover the thrill of kayaking at Bob’s Hole.
Bob’s Hole – An Exciting Playspot
Bob’s Hole is a popular destination for kayakers seeking adventure on the Upper Clackamas River. It offers a thrilling experience with its dynamic and challenging features. This playspot is known for its powerful waves and impressive hydraulics, providing an opportunity for kayakers to showcase their skills and test their limits. Whether you’re a novice seeking to improve your playboating techniques or an experienced paddler looking for an adrenaline rush, Bob’s Hole is a must-visit spot on the Upper Clackamas River.
Exploring the Upper Clackamas River offers paddlers a chance to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty and take on the exciting challenge of Bob’s Hole. It is a truly remarkable experience that combines scenic vistas with thrilling whitewater action.
Safety Tips and Notable Rapids of the Upper Clackamas
While kayaking the Upper Clackamas, it is important to prioritize safety. The river can be challenging, especially during high flows, so taking precautions is essential. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when paddling the Upper Clackamas:
- Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and a helmet.
- Check the water levels and weather conditions before heading out.
- Be aware of your skill level and only paddle within your limits.
- Carry essential safety gear such as a throw bag, whistle, and first aid kit.
- Paddle with a group or inform someone of your intended route and estimated return time.
The Upper Clackamas is known for its notable rapids that add excitement to the kayaking experience. One such rapid to be cautious of is the “Hole in the Wall.” This rapid features a rock wall on the left side that creates a dangerous terminal eddy. It is crucial to navigate this rapid cautiously and avoid the hazardous eddy. Other notable rapids on the Upper Clackamas include Carter’s Bridge rapid, Rock-n-Roll, and Toilet Bowl. Each of these rapids offers thrilling experiences for kayakers but should be approached with caution and proper skill.
By following safety tips and being mindful of the notable rapids, kayakers can have a safe and enjoyable adventure on the Upper Clackamas River.
| Rapid | Difficulty | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Hole in the Wall | Class III | A rapid with a dangerous terminal eddy created by a rock wall on the left side. |
| Carter’s Bridge rapid | Class III | A thrilling rapid with technical maneuvers required. |
| Rock-n-Roll | Class III | A fast-paced rapid with dynamic waves and rock features. |
| Toilet Bowl | Class III | A challenging rapid with swirling currents and hydraulics. |
Cazadero Stretch – A Novelty Run with Unique Access
The Cazadero Stretch of the Clackamas River is a hidden gem for kayakers seeking a novelty run with unique access. Located just east of Estacada, Oregon, this rarely run section offers a thrilling and unforgettable experience. To access the Cazadero Stretch, kayakers can park at a designated spot on East Faraday Rd. and embark on a scenic hike up a paved road. The hike leads to the fish ladder and dam, where paddlers can put in and begin their adventure.
What makes the Cazadero Stretch truly special is its limited paddling flows. Typically dewatered for power generation, this section only comes alive when the river level rises above 5,000 cfs. This exclusivity adds to the allure of the run, providing kayakers with a unique opportunity to explore the river in its prime state.
Once on the water, paddlers will encounter a mix of class III, IV, and even one class V rapid, offering a thrilling big water feel. Notable rapids on the Cazadero Stretch include “The Wall,” “Full Throttle,” and “Slam Dunk,” each presenting its own set of challenges and adrenaline-pumping moments. It is important for kayakers to scout the rapids and choose their lines carefully to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
| Rapid | Difficulty Level | Description |
|---|---|---|
| The Wall | Class III | A boulder-filled rapid that requires precise maneuvering to navigate through. |
| Full Throttle | Class IV | A high-energy rapid with powerful currents and technical moves. |
| Slam Dunk | Class V | A challenging rapid with steep drops and complex features that demand expert skills. |
As kayakers conquer the rapids of the Cazadero Stretch, they can also enjoy the added excitement of Big Eddy, a popular spot for squirt boaters to practice mystery moves. This unique feature adds an extra element of fun and exploration to the run, making it a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts.
Unforgettable Highlights of the Cazadero Stretch:
- Rarely run section with limited access
- Requires river levels above 5,000 cfs
- Mix of class III, IV, and V rapids
- Notable rapids including “The Wall,” “Full Throttle,” and “Slam Dunk”
- Opportunity for squirt boaters to practice mystery moves at Big Eddy
Rapids and Features of the Cazadero Stretch
The Cazadero Stretch of the Clackamas River is known for its exhilarating rapids and unique features that make it a thrilling destination for kayakers. This section offers a variety of rapids, each with its own set of challenges and excitement. Let’s take a closer look at some of the notable rapids and features you’ll encounter on this stretch.
Notable Rapids
One of the most thrilling rapids on the Cazadero Stretch is “The Wall.” It’s a class V rapid that demands precise navigation through a tight and technical channel between large boulders. As you conquer this rapid, you’ll experience the rush of adrenaline and the satisfaction of successfully maneuvering through the challenging terrain.
Another noteworthy rapid is “Full Throttle,” a class III rapid that lives up to its name. It features a fast and powerful current, creating an exciting ride for kayakers. “Slam Dunk” is yet another thrilling rapid, offering a class IV challenge with its steep drops and powerful hydraulic features. It’s a true test of skill and bravery.
Key Features
In addition to the thrilling rapids, the Cazadero Stretch also boasts some unique features that make it a standout destination. One of these features is Big Eddy, a large eddy where squirt boaters can practice their mystery moves. It’s a popular spot for kayakers looking to show off their skills and enjoy some playful fun on the water.
| Rapid | Difficulty |
|---|---|
| The Wall | Class V |
| Full Throttle | Class III |
| Slam Dunk | Class IV |
As you can see, the Cazadero Stretch offers a range of rapids, each with its own level of difficulty and excitement. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker looking for a challenge or a thrill-seeker seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure, this stretch of the Clackamas River has something to offer.
So grab your kayak, gear up, and get ready to conquer the rapids and experience the unique features of the Cazadero Stretch. It’s a kayaking experience you won’t soon forget.
The Clackamas River – Portland’s Classic Class III Run
The Clackamas River in Oregon is a renowned destination for kayakers and rafters seeking a classic Class III whitewater experience near Portland. With its accessible flows throughout much of the year, this river offers thrilling rapids, play spots, and eddies suitable for both experienced paddlers and novices.
Popular put-in locations include Three Lynx Powerhouse, Sun Strip Campground, and Fish Creek, providing convenient access to the river. For those looking for an exhilarating challenge, the Upper Clackamas section is a must-visit. It features scenic beauty, including steep rocky walls, clear water, and stunning vistas, making every moment on the water an unforgettable experience.
To enhance the adventure, kayakers can explore Bob’s Hole, a famous playspot on the Upper Clackamas. This renowned feature is part of the national whitewater rodeo series, offering an exciting and challenging experience for paddlers. The combination of scenic beauty, adrenaline-pumping rapids, and notable play spots makes the Clackamas River a must-visit destination for kayakers seeking a classic Class III run near Portland.
Table: Put-in Locations and Take-out Spot on the Clackamas River
| Put-in Locations | Take-out Spot |
|---|---|
| Three Lynx Powerhouse | Bob’s Hole |
| Sun Strip Campground | |
| Fish Creek |
Explore the Clackamas River in Oregon and embark on a thrilling kayaking adventure. With its classic Class III rapids, breathtaking scenery, and accessible put-in locations, this river provides an unforgettable experience for paddlers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, the Clackamas River offers a perfect blend of excitement and natural beauty right on the doorstep of Portland.
Notable Rapids and Key Sections of the Clackamas River
The Clackamas River in Oregon offers a thrilling kayaking experience with its notable rapids and key sections. Paddlers can test their skills and enjoy the adrenaline-pumping adventure provided by the river’s challenging rapids. Here are some of the notable rapids that kayakers can encounter along the Clackamas River:
Hole in the Wall
This rapid, located in the Upper Clackamas section, requires caution and careful navigation due to the dangerous terminal eddy created by a rock wall on the left side. Kayakers should approach this rapid with precision to avoid the hazardous eddy and safely navigate the rapid.
Carter Falls
Situated further down the Clackamas River, Carter Falls offers an exciting challenge for kayakers. This rapid requires skilled maneuvering through powerful currents and obstacles, making it a thrilling section of the river for those seeking an adrenaline rush.
Rock and Roll
As the name suggests, Rock and Roll provides an exhilarating experience with its swift currents and dynamic features. Paddlers must navigate through boulders and powerful waves, requiring precise boat control and quick decision-making to successfully conquer this rapid.
Toilet Bowl
Located near the end of the Clackamas River run, Toilet Bowl is known for its powerful hydraulics and challenging features. Kayakers must carefully choose their line and execute precise maneuvers to avoid getting caught in the powerful whirlpool at the bottom of the rapid.
By studying the river map and planning their routes accordingly, kayakers can safely navigate these notable rapids and fully immerse themselves in the thrilling adventure offered by the Clackamas River.
| Rapid | Section | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Hole in the Wall | Upper Clackamas | Challenging |
| Carter Falls | Middle Clackamas | Advanced |
| Rock and Roll | Middle Clackamas | Intermediate |
| Toilet Bowl | Lower Clackamas | Expert |
Conclusion
The Clackamas River in Oregon offers thrilling kayak surf spots and memorable whitewater experiences. From the Upper Clackamas with its scenic beauty and playspots like Bob’s Hole, to the novelty run of the Cazadero Stretch and the classic Class III rapids of the Portland section, the Clackamas River provides diverse opportunities for kayakers of all skill levels.
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping rapids or breathtaking scenery, the Clackamas River in Oregon delivers an unforgettable kayaking adventure. Its year-round flow and easy roadside access make it a convenient and accessible destination for adventure enthusiasts. Paddlers can immerse themselves in the picturesque beauty of the Upper Clackamas, with its steep rocky walls, clear water, and stunning vistas.
The river’s notable rapids, such as “The Wall,” “Hole in the Wall,” Carter Falls, Rock and Roll, and Toilet Bowl, provide exciting challenges for experienced kayakers. Safety is paramount, and caution should be exercised when navigating these rapids. Additionally, the Cazadero Stretch offers a unique and thrilling experience with its class III, IV, and V rapids, accessible only when the river level rises above 5,000 cfs.
Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or new to the sport, the Clackamas River is sure to captivate with its diversity of rapids, stunning scenery, and accessibility. Embark on an unforgettable kayaking adventure on the Clackamas River and discover the beauty and excitement it has to offer.
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