Clear Creek
About
Class IV(V) drops through 16 miles of BLM-managed canyon, with Clear Creek Gorge forming the technical crux between more moderate upstream and downstream sections. At 201 CFS average, the creek runs optimal between 100–300 CFS on gauge 11372000. The Whiskeytown put-in leads to several miles of warm-up water before the gorge section, where continuous boulder gardens and undercut walls demand precise boat handling. Below the gorge, the gradient eases toward the China Gardens takeout. This is pool-drop technical paddling that becomes pushy and unforgiving as flows climb toward the upper end of the window.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.