Gifford Pinchot NF

Davis Creek, Gifford Pinchot NF, Washington

Davis Creek is probably the most popular technical creek in Washington state. This half-day creek is accessible from both Seattle and Portland, has a minimal approach and a trivial exit with a short and easy car shuttle. What’s not to like? But there’s more! As one of the most highly rated creeks in Washington, Davis is spectacularly beautiful with deep fern-covered basalt walls, gorgeous waterfalls, fun rappels and jumps and an iconic log that spans the canyon. I think I’ve used all my superlatives already and I’m only on the first paragraph 😊 Our first trip to Davis this summer was at the beginning of August with a group of Utah friends who were visiting as well as my nephew Aron, also visiting us at the time. We had been working up to Davis for most of the week with smaller and easier canyons and finally we felt like [...]

Dark Creek, Gifford Pinchot NF, Washington

After a few weeks back in Washington taking care of the house and other emergencies, it was time to head out for a couple weeks of adventure. Our first stop was the PNW Rondy, in a remote part of the state near Randle, Washington. This is a great springboard for canyoning in Washington, with many of the classic creeks located within striking distance. We dropped by on Saturday, July 27th to run Dark Creek with our friends Sri and Vyonne, as well as some new friends who were in Sri's group. No permits are required for this creek, and beta is available here: Dark Creek - ropewiki. Dark is a pretty creek with a more open character in the upper area and narrows in the lower part. Access is very easy, via a well-maintained trail that goes steeply uphill in some sections, gaining about 800 feet of elevation. There [...]