Run Map

Run Time Estimate

Put-in

Take-out

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Whitewater timing varies with scouting, portages, and group pace. Use as a planning baseline.

Description

If you're up for a 3-mile hike along the Buck Creek trail, the Chiwawa River offers a stunning 2.5-mile stretch of fast, continuous Class 3+ to 4 rapids through a gorge. It's akin to Ingalls and upper Peshastin but more remote and demanding. You can hike to the trail bridge or bushwhack through the old burn zone below Buck Creek confluence. Eddies are small, choked with brush, and not always conveniently located. Quick reactions are essential to navigate around or portage some tricky wood obstacles, and blind corners can be challenging. Portages can be difficult due to dense vegetation, and expect several tree portages, especially after the valley opens near Trinity—stay vigilant. A Chiwawa gauge reading of 1000-1100 cfs is suitable for first-time paddlers unfamiliar with the wood conditions. The easiest takeout is at the horse camp half a mile below the trailhead.