Valsetz Dam Site to Confluence

An interesting class III-IV run in the Siletz drainage, the South Fork Siletz comes out of Valsetz Lake and immediately enters its steepest section of whitewater (class IV at healthy flows).  The first half mile is the most narrow and steep, slowly transitioning to class II-III then class II before finally merging with the NF Siletz about 4 miles later. The whole run is roadside, so there are many put in and take out options.  The run can be done at a range of flows, with a very different character at 4,000 cfs on the gauge than 12,000. There is playboating potential at high water for the bold, but most will enjoy this as a class III-IV run when the Siletz is running at a healthy flow.  5,000 cfs seems to be a good bet for an enjoyable flow. Watch out for wood, the heavy logging in the area provides the access roads but means more wood in the stream. Access the stream using Valsetz Road, either out of Falls City or through Moonshine Park.  Because the land is managed by logging companies, this area is understandably only open to the public on weekends.