Gauge Description:

This is the Cowlitz gauge a ways downstream. The Ohanapecosh and Clear Fork Cowlitz join together to form the Cowlitz River. The flow range is approximate to get you in the ballpark so keep in mind that the actual flow is about 1/3 of the reading on this gauge and the relationship fluctuates slightly depending on where the water is coming from (i.e. rain or snowmelt). Flows around 1200- 1500 cfs on this gauge are generally good for a first time run. Those who know the run paddle it higher. Although the river has been run in late summer down to 800 or so it does start to get pretty boney much below 1000 and the pin hazards start to become more serious.