Parks and Recreation Whitewater Boating
When scouting the Chelan Gorge prior to boating or viewing the boaters during the runs, please be respectful of landowners and do not trespass on private property.
The Chelan River, although one of the shortest rivers in the northwest, offers some of the most challenging whitewater boating in the nation. The initial three miles of the Chelan River offer rapids categorized as Class II (novice), however the river then quickly changes to Class V+ (expert) for approximately three-tenths of a mile through the “Gorge” before spilling into the lower reaches of the Chelan River and its confluence with the Columbia River.
The Chelan River is just downstream from the popular recreation destination, Lake Chelan and the water flowing into the Chelan River is regulated by the Lake Chelan Dam, owned and operated by Chelan County PUD under a license from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).
As part of a new license issued by FERC on November 1, 2006, Chelan PUD, in cooperation with American Whitewater, is conducting a three-year whitewater boating monitoring study in the Chelan River beginning in July of 2009. Each year, during the three year study period, whitewater releases for kayakers will occur only on the second and fourth weekends in July and September.
All boaters must be at least 18 years of age and are required to pre-register and complete the reservation process. Only non-motorized hard-shelled kayaks suitable for Class V whitewater will be permitted. Public access to this area is limited at all times due to hazardous terrain. Visitors are reminded to adhere to posted restrictions.