Put In

Rush Creek is a medium-sized river in Skamania County, Washington, with a total length of 116 miles and significant elevation change of 1,257 feet. This whitewater put-in provides access to a stream characterized by an average gradient of 10.8 feet per mile, which indicates moderately technical whitewater conditions. With an average flow of 84 cubic feet per second and velocity of 1.95 feet per second, paddlers should expect moving water and the need for basic to intermediate whitewater skills.

The put-in location sits at approximately 4,000 feet elevation in the Cascade region. Boaters using this access should be prepared for the creek's relatively steep gradient and associated current. The drainage area of 1,195 square miles indicates a substantial watershed that can experience significant flow variations depending on season and weather conditions. Paddlers should check current water levels and conditions before launching, as whitewater rivers can change rapidly.

This is a classic whitewater creek put-in suitable for kayaks and canoes operated by paddlers with intermediate whitewater experience. The site provides access to technical creek paddling in the southern Washington Cascades.