Greendale 8.0 mi. to Route 66, 3.0 mi. to Allegheny R.

Dave Woten gives the beta: Cowanshannock Creek is a small delightful run that flows into the Allegheny River in Kittanning. It is perfect for the up-and-coming creeker ready to step up from Slippery Rock Creek towards more gradient and tighter lines. Numerous tight lines to choose from, some rock banging, log boofing and even pipe dodging are all part of what makes this trip creeky. The take-out is at the PA Fish Commission boat launch area on Cowanshannock Creek just before its confluence with the Allegheny River. You drive parallel to the run for much of the shuttle. There is a put-in area in the woods partway up the run which cuts out the flat water and a couple rapids. The long version has you putting in around route 28/66. We hop on the creek just behind a min-mart type store. Watch for the "no parking" signs lining the road. Here is an obvious flat area across from the mining operation where we get a visual. If the little ripple looks like you can float downstream it is runnable. If the water is coming out of the banks into the river right grass it is definitely on the high side. The photo "Buttermilk Falls" at the bottom of the page was taken with the water up in the grass (very high). Compare both photos since they are the same rapid. The Cowanshannock begins with a long stretch of flatwater, however, time passes quickly due to the fast current and enjoyable scenery. The first couple rapids are a good place to warm-up, do some eddy hopping and even a little surfing. You will soon approach a small steep slide. You can have some fun playing at the bottom. You will notice the gradient begin to pick up. Soon you will approach the steepest part of the creek beginning with Buttermilk Falls, a 2-3 foot ledge stretching from river left to 2/3 of the way across the creek. The lead-in to the falls is shallow. You can go over the drop anywhere--just stay straight. The far right line requires a more technical but easily manageable move with an ill-placed rock. If you get out to scout Buttermilk Falls, scout the next drop while you are on the banks because it is just a few feet downstream. This drop starts center, goes sharp right, then immediately left. This happens fast with a decent amount of gradient. You can use the pillowed rock at the bottom of the drop to turn left but if you do, watch out for the hole. The footbridge should now be very close and easily visible. Approach with caution! I have seen strainers, pipes and other "nasties" become lodged around the abutment and in this area of the creek. They are often right in the middle of the desired line. Though the creek continues to drop, the steepest and most difficult drops are behind you at this point. You should be able to read and run the rest of the creek as it continues to become easier. Before you know it, you will be at the take-out, ready for run number 2! The fast run, easy shuttle, and great put-in/take-out make it a nice run on a cold snowy winter day.