3 - Verlot to Granite Falls (Robe Canyon Run)

Considered one of North America's classic whitewater runs, and a dependable class V standard for boaters in Western Washington, the run starts with five and a half miles of class I/II before slamming into a three mile canyon of class IV, V, and V+ rapids. Most cut off this warm up and utilize the private access at Paca Pride. You can have a look at the rapids at the start of the canyon along the Old Robe Historical Trail (an old railroad grade through the canyon) and potentially use it as an alternative access (although it's nearly a mile to the river). The trailhead is on Mt. Loop Highway at mile 7.2 and you can view approximately 1/2 a mile of the canyon's whitewater before the trail basically ends. Check out a video guide to Robe Canyon. Logistics: Take-out at the Mountain Loop Highway Bridge just outside of Granite Falls (Granite Falls lurks just downstream so make sure you get out here). Verlot Campground is one potential public access point if you're looking for a warm-up. Alternative hike-in access of about a mile, which cuts off some of the flatwater, is available along the Old Robe Historical Trail which is part of Snohomish County Parks. Access across private property east of the trailhead is also possible at Paca Pride if you have permission (check with local paddlers. You can find them on the Robe Facebook Group).