Canyon Creek (S.F. Still. trib), Washington, US

2 - Hampton Tree Farm Bridge to Fishing Access (Middle)

Usual Difficulty	II+ (for normal flows)
Length	4 Miles
Avg. Gradient	35 fpm

Gauge Information

Name	Range	Difficulty	Updated	Level
SF STILLAGUAMISH RIVER NEAR GRANITE FALLS, WA
usgs-12161000	5.20 - 6.50 ft	II+	22h26m	5.19 ft (rc= -0.0 )

River Description

FUN FACT: Excellent class 2 run with plenty of fun pool drop rapids along its entire length.

SEASON: Winter rains and snowmelt. November through May.

LOGISTICS:
The takeout is at the Fishing Access listed in the more well known lower run. To reach it turn onto the Mountain Loop Highway from Granite Falls. From here it's 2.1 miles to the turnoff for Canyon Drive. Follow Canyon Drive 0.7 miles to a fishing access point. If it's your first time down, it would be a good idea to walk down to the creek so that you can recognize the take-out. (You'll need a vehicle use permit from WDFW to park here.)

To reach the put-in return to the Mountain Loop Highway and continue east. In about 3 miles look for the sign marking the entrance to Masonic Park, and gated timber road. Masonic Park is members only. If you are a member of the Masons you can use the park, which probably provides an easier put-in and perhaps a few more rapids. Otherwise park here in a wide turnout, careful not to block the gate. The river is accessed by walking in past the gate and continuing 1/2 mile down the gravel road to a bridge over the river. Easiest access is on the downstream river right side of the bridge. The gravel road is owned by Hampton Tree Farm. Hampton allows non-motorized recreational use of their roads except in times of extreme fire danger. To check to see if there is any change to this policy you may call them at 360-848-0404.

DESCRIPTION:
The good news: Upstream from the better known class 4/5 run, Canyon Creek features an excellent class 2 run. It is similar in character to the classic class 2 runs on the SF Snoqualmie or Cedar River, but with more rapids! The creek winds through green forests and some residential areas. There are excellent class 2 - 2+ rapids along it’s entire length, with a couple drops that may push class 3 at higher flows.

The bad news, is the 1/2 mile walk in, but really its about an easy of a 1/2 mile as you can get. The road is either flat or slightly downhill the whole way and is well maintained.

The walk in may keep some folks away, but this run is really worth doing and has potential as a classic beginner/intermediate run. Just be sure to keep a look out for wood, as the trees sometimes topple into this narrow stream.