Sauk River

The Sauk provides good continuous class III action with a couple of drops that may push class IV. The main hazards are trees which extend out from the banks, a couple large holes that can swallow inattentive paddlers, and at higher water long swims are a possibility. This is an excellent intermediate run that also provides some fun waves and play spots for more advanced paddlers.

Starting at the confluence with the Whitechuck, the river starts off through a number of class III rapids separated by short recovery pools (which become smaller as the discharge increases). There are numerous catch-them-on-the-fly surf waves.

The one rapid that is somewhat challenging to boat scout is Jaws. It comes approximately 2 miles into the trip where some large boulders create a couple holes and large waves toward river right . This drop can push class IV although the route through is fairly straight forward and at higher water it's an easy sneak around the left. The drop can be scouted from an island on river right, but its a bit of a project and experienced boaters should be able to boat scout. Just downstream you'll come upon another island (you'll see the road as you approach) and the preferred river left channel takes you through Whirlpool . Those looking for a little action can run the meat on river left while those looking for the conservative line can cut hard to the right. You can see Whirlpool from the road.

Below Whirlpool the river calms down slightly. You will find the same good class III rapids and several great surfing waves, but rapids are just a bit less continuous.

Once you reach Clear Creek, paddle a short distance up the creek to the bridge and the takeout. Those looking for some added excitement and a peak at a beautiful gorge can paddle and scramble up the creek and around the corner to a fun III+ rapid. Those in rafts typically continue on downstream to Bachman Park or the bridge in downstream.