Lava Gorge

Lava Gorge is a notorious Class V rapid characterized by a series of powerful hydraulics and tight technical moves through a narrow basalt canyon. Paddlers must navigate a complex sequence of ledge drops and vertical walls, with critical line selection required to avoid severe undercuts and potential pin spots, especially at lower water levels. The rapid demands precise boat control and immediate decision-making, with significant consequences for mistakes in this challenging section of the White Salmon River.