Fred V. Habenicht Rotary Park, Highway 169 and Highway 18 Bridges

Fred V. Habenicht Rotary Park provides whitewater access to the Cedar River at the confluence of Highway 169 and Highway 18 bridges in King County, Washington. The Cedar River is a large river system with a stream order of 7, characterized by significant flow averaging 6,336 cubic feet per second and a moderate gradient of 2.3 feet per mile. The location sits at an elevation of approximately 175 meters, offering access to a river known for dynamic water conditions typical of Pacific Northwest rivers.

Paddlers should be aware that the Cedar River maintains a strong average velocity of 3.28 feet per second with considerable drainage basin influence from 7,266 square miles. The river features a substantial elevation drop of 787 feet across its total length, which influences the character of the water. This access point provides entry to a major river system that flows for over 1,700 miles to the ocean, making it an important waterway for various recreational and paddling activities.

The park setting at this highway bridge location offers a public access point, though specific amenities and facility details should be verified with King County Parks before visiting. Paddlers should assess their skill level against the river's current conditions and flow rates, particularly given the Cedar River's significant average discharge and velocity characteristics.