Cynthia Creek

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Cynthia Creek Canyoneering Canyoning Caving
Also known as: Cynthia Falls.
Rating:
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Cynthia Creek Banner.jpg

Difficulty:3C I (v3a4 I)
Raps:‌1-2, max ↨50ft
Metric
Overall:
Approach: ⟷1.3mi ↑650ft
Red Tape:No permit required
Shuttle:None
Vehicle:Passenger
Start:
Parking:
Condition Reports:
18 Nov 2023




"Youtube vid added on the main page Interesting small slot canyon, with one 50ft rappel in the flow, you could rappel this 3 different ways, fro

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Weather:
Best season:
Apr-Jun
winterspringsummerfall
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Regions:


Welcome! Canyons in the Pacific Northwest can be different from those you might be used to. Be ready for unlinked bolts, retrievable traverse lines, and challenging aquatic environments. For more on local practices, and the best way to get started in the region, check out the WCC Safety page.
  • Unlinked Bolts - groups should be comfortable rigging unlinked bolts, either temporarily linking them for all but the last person, or using a passive redundancy method. Most importantly, if you find two bolts side by side that are unlinked, do not add webbing to them. Linking bolts designed to be unlinked will likely cause damage during seasonal floods.
  • Traverse Lines - many canyons are rigged to allow traverse line access to an exposed anchor station. This should be done using self-belay or team belay techniques. Do not leave fixed lines in the canyons.
  • Challenging Environments - the highly aquatic nature of PNW canyons can surprise many. Cold temperatures, slippery rocks, loud waterfalls, and strong currents all lead to unexpected problems. Do not underestimate the need for strong team work and technical proficiency. Belays are frequently not possible. Unattended gear will sink or float away. Sliding and jumping is the cause of most major injuries, so it's critical to effectively communicating water depth & submerged hazards.

Introduction[edit]

A single waterfall plunging into a short slot canyon located north of Archer Mountain. There are not too many slots like this in the Columbia Gorge. Be aware: approach & exit time will likely take longer than time spent in the canyon. A high pay-to-play.

Approach[edit]

Backtrack along Duncan Creek Rd and turn off right onto a gated powerline track. Follow the track west about ~1mi, 650ft gain to about 1600ft elevation where Cynthia Creek passes under the road through a culvert. Look for a sign on a tree with a short trail leading to the top of the falls.

Descent[edit]

  • R1: 50ft from a tree. Beware several old hoses hanging down over the falls that may complicate rope deployment. These hoses either lead to a private home, or, more likely, a defunct pot-grow somewhere downstream. It'd be great to get these removed.

At the bottom it's possible to exit immediately up a steep dirty chute, or pass through the bottom of the waterfall and exit up DCR onto a ledge to walk off.

  • R2: Two tier with a pool between: 6ft, 6ft. Or bypass DCR.

Exit[edit]

Exit the creek DCR below the falls and up a steep slope into the woods. Thrash back over to the powerline track. Return the way you came.

Red tape[edit]

Cynthia Creek lies inside the Columbia Falls Natural Area Preserve (NAP) which is managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR). In theory, NAP areas are as close to wilderness as it gets. Historically, however, this area has been open to access. The falls lies just adjacent to a powerline access track, and was used as a water collection system back in the day (ref: the network of hoses hanging down the falls). The area around the waterfall was also extensively logged back in the day.

  • Hikers and waterfall photographers probably visit this area far more than canyoneers.
  • For more information, see Columbia Falls Natural Area Preserve. The webpage mentions basalt cliffs and steep talus slopes. This appears to be a reference to Archer Valley, the large drainage to the southwest, which is home to several endangered plant and animal species. According to the website, the valley is closed to visitors.

Beta sites[edit]

Trip reports and media[edit]

https://youtu.be/K6HkQHoxiN0

Background[edit]

An old retention wall once existed in the bottom of Cynthia Creek before it was blown out by a winter flood. It's original purpose is unknown.

Credits

Information provided by automated processes. KML map by (unknown). Main photo by (unknown). Authors are listed in chronological order.

In all habitats live animals and plants that deserve respect, please minimize impact on the environment and observe the local ethics. Canyoneering, Canyoning, Caving and other activities described in this site are inherently dangerous. Reliance on the information contained on this site is solely at your own risk. There is no warranty as to accuracy, timeliness or completeness of the information provided on this site. The site administrators and all the contributing authors expressly disclaim any and all liability for any loss or injury caused, in whole or in part, by its actions, omissions, or negligence in procuring, compiling or providing information through this site, including without limitation, liability with respect to any use of the information contained herein. If you notice any omission or mistakes, please contribute your knowledge (more information).

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