Little North Santiam (Opal Creek)
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| Difficulty:2B (v1a2) Raps:0
Red Tape:Closed to entry Shuttle: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Best season: | Jul-Sep (avg for this region)
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Introduction[edit]
Current Status: This creek was overrun by the Beachie/Santiam Fire in Sept 2020 and has been closed. Please check on local closures before planning a trip to this area. When the area eventually reopens, use extreme caution when descending the creek. Between landslides, fallen trees, and loose rocks, this area may be unstable and dangerous for years to come. The canyon may have changed dramatically. Do not rely on the beta below being accurate.
This a very scenic non-technical canyon descent with fine narrows and crystal clear water.
Approach[edit]
Descent[edit]
The original beta highlights 4 different segments, these can be descended separately or together as a long day. The last section, referred as the "fabulous narrows", is right above the exit of Henline Creek Canyon.
The "Three Pools" is a popular swimming hole that offers a good opportunity to practice 10, 20 and 30 feet jumps.
Exit[edit]
Red tape[edit]
The Detroit Ranger District has changed the regulations for nearby Three Pools Day Use Area, which could presumably affect canyoneering users. The full list of rules changes can be seen here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/willamette/recreation/?cid=fseprd536796
Highlights for canyoneers: park at the designated trailhead rather than on the road. No campfires, and if you decide to camp, double-check that you are doing so legally. Since these regulations just recently went into effect, expect a heavy enforcement presence for summer 2017. No alcohol in the Three Pools Day Use Area, which could be part of a canyoneering descent of this creek.
Beta sites[edit]
CanyoneeringNorthwest.com (archive.org) : Little North Santiam River (Opal Creek)