Little North Santiam (Opal Creek)

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Little North Santiam (Opal Creek) Canyoneering Canyoning Caving
Also known as: Little North Santiam River; Opal Creek Narrows.
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Difficulty:‌2B (v1a2)
Raps:‌0
Metric
Overall:
Red Tape:‌Closed to entry
Shuttle:‌
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Best season:
Jul-Sep (avg for this region)
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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]

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]

Trip reports and media[edit]

Background[edit]

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