Summit Creek (Klickitat)

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Summit Creek (Klickitat) Canyoneering Canyoning Caving
 For other features with similar names, see Summit Creek (disambiguation)
The exploration of this location has not yet been documented
All information is unverified estimation
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Summit Creek (Klickitat) Banner.jpg

‌
Difficulty:‌3C (v3a4)
Raps:‌3-4?, max ↨80ft
Metric
Overall:
Exit: ⟷0.5mi
Red Tape:‌No permit required
Shuttle:‌Optional 1.4mi
Vehicle:Passenger
Start:
Parking:
Shuttle:
Condition Reports:

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Weather:
Best season:
Aug-Sept
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Regions:
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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]

A significant tributary of the Klickitat River. Summit Creek appears to be spring-fed and seems to sport significant flow all year. Kayakers run this one in high water, but it may be low enough to be safe for canyoneering late in the season (?). There appear to be two particular sections of interest on the creek: a series of falls between 1300-1500ft elevation on land owned by the Columbia Land Trust-- and a second series between 1600-1800ft on Yakama Reservation Land. This page describes the lower section of the creek.

  • Visiting the upper canyon likely requires permission from the Yakama Nation. Please do not trespass on reservation land.

Approach[edit]

An unsigned closed/abandoned spur road off of Summit Creek Rd (Rd 207) may provide good access to the lower portion of the canyon. Hikers occasionally make their way down to Skatepark Falls.

Descent[edit]

  • R1: 30ft?
  • R2: Skate Park Falls 70-80ft - it gets its name as it resembles a quarter-pipe and launches paddlers 15ft into the air and downstream at high speed. Described as very tall with consequences for mistakes.
  • R3: "The Slot Drop" - 25ft that narrows as it drops.
  • R4 - 30ft ramp?

Exit[edit]

LIDAR shows an old track or trail leading from the creek up to the lower switchback on FR 207.

Red tape[edit]

Please respect all postings and private property.

  • The lower section of Summit Creek is on land owned by the Columbia Land Trust. Being that close to the boundary with reservation land can cause some friction, however.
  • The upper section is on Yakama Nation land. Permission / permits may be required. Being in the area sans-permit may be subject to some stiff fines.

Beta sites[edit]

Kayakers run Summit Creek in early June.

Curious Gorge - 4th edition by Scott Cook describes a steep scramble route to reach the top of Skatepark Falls.

Trip reports and media[edit]

Background[edit]

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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