Cherry Creek may be the most popular class 5 whitewater in California because it receives dependable flows from Holm Powerhouse most of the summer and sometimes in the fall and winter. Many people boat this reach week after week through the summer, learning every facet of every rapid.
Near the end of the summer there is an annual but informal Cherry Creek downriver race and party. Spectators and safety volunteers spread out along the race section and hotshots paddle as fast as they can down a section containing some of the major rapids. Dates for the race are usually announced on Boof.com and other kayaking websites and email lists.
Put in: Holm Powerhouse
google map. Boaters usually gather up off the main highway at Casa Loma to carpool and coordinate shuttles.
Take out: Lumsden Bridge is the first possible take out and the most commonly used one.
google map. Boaters can also continue downstream to Meral's Pool by Lumsden Campground.
Good rapid by rapid video of Cherry Creek on you tube.
Groveland Ranger Station: (209) 962-7825
Cassady & Calhoun, Holbek & Stanley, Martin