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Cispus (III-IV)

Description: The Cispus is a river that the club seldom runs, which is odd considering it's not that far from Seattle. There are two distinct sections which can be run.

The Upper Cispus from FS23 Bridge to just above the North Fork confluence is a Class IV high gradient run thru rapids such as Picky Picky, Big Bend, and White Lighting. Smoothrock Falls no longer exists due to river rerouting during recent floods. Due to the potential of logs, prior scouting may be required. When we ran this section in 2000 on a private run these was a mandatory portage just below White Lightning.

Pictures from the Upper Cispus: Blockage - White Lightning - Eddy Out

April 2004 conditions update: There were 2 river wide logs that we were able to limbo under but that would not have been possible for rafts. Another log blocked one channel however another channel at that location was open. In White Lightning, a log was present in the mostly far right of the channel 2/3 of way down but left the rest of the rapid free. Big Bend was free of wood. We had a mini portage just above our take out because of a log as well.

The Lower Cispus from Tower Rock Campground down to Huffaker Bridge (FS25) or possibly a few miles further, is a somewhat easier Class II+ III run, but yet the possibility of logs exists here also. Advance scouting to determine blockages and takeout alternatives is also recommended here.

Directions: 2 1/2 hour drive from Seattle going either via route 410 & 123 over Cayuse to Hwy 12 thru Packwood or Hwys 161 & 7 to Morton then East on 12.

Accommodations: Camping at Tower Rock Campground.

Last Update 11-Jun-08