Run Map

Run Time Estimate

Put-in

Take-out

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Whitewater timing varies with scouting, portages, and group pace. Use as a planning baseline.

Description

Perhaps the trickiest intermediate Class III/IV section in NorCal to chase for an ideal flow window. Bear Creek spikes and drops quickly, and many a boater have been known to cowboy camp and kill time around Cache Creek waiting for just the right amount of water to chase the Ursas (ask me how I know, as Trent Pearce would say). The main features of the run are 4-6 ledges known as the Ursas, most of which you can scout from roadside pull-outs and/or short walks. As a tributary to Cache Creek, you can expect the same oak woodland/chaparral landscape you'd find there. Those wanting a Class II/III run can also get out before the Ursas and walk along the road to meet up with your braver friends. A shorter run can be done be using the alternate put-in below, which gives you a 5 mile run with 73 fpm average gradient. For a longer run, combine this with the Rumsey run of Cache Creek. Other information sources: - CaCreeks.com - A Wet State