Kimta Creek to Quinault

This is a fantastic packraft run featuring a majestic hike through old-growth rainforest, fun whitewater, multiple mossy gorges, and towering cedars along the river. The river can be accessed at multiple points to make for a class IV+, III, or II+ day. The first mile from Kimta Creek to Elip Creek contains some class IV+ drops in a cliffed out gorge. Be prepared for a very difficult climb out if there is gorge spanning wood clogging a drop. All drops can be scouted, but only one can be portaged. The next four miles starting at Elip creek or Halfway House contain fun class III whitewater and some beautiful gorges. Shortly after the last gorge just downstream of Wolf bar camp, the next six river miles to the Quinault bridge settles down to class II+ braided river. There are big views of the surrounding mountains as the river braids through active floodplain. Watch for wildlife and enjoy the views. Keep an eye out for wood in this section. This stretch of river can be accessed via a couple points along the hiking trail, along the road, or at the bridge over the Quinault below the confluence with the main stem.