Pristine trickles of water drain the southern flanks of 14,162- foot Mt. Shasta in far Northern California. A mere 45 miles south of Oregon, these braided streams meander through Squaw Valley before joining and plunging into a deep canyon as Squaw Valley Creek. An exciting expedition for intermediate kayakers, and a rewarding journey for advanced paddlers, Squaw Valley Creek can be completed as an overnight or in a single long day.
The descent starts in coniferous forest with rich, moss-covered banks, steep canyon walls and continuous rapids. Within 11 miles, the creek gains tenfold its initial volume and drops over countless class III rapids and a handful of class IV, including a few small waterfalls. After 11 miles and only two portages around wood, Squaw Valley Creek combines with the renowned, aqua-blue McCloud River for 10 more miles of class III–IV (one IV+) river running through beautiful, private fishing reserves.
Squaw Valley Beta
Reach the take-out off Cali’s I-5 on Gilmand Road; follow to a bridge over the McCloud River. To find the put-in, exit the I-5 at Hwy 89, turn right on Squaw Valley Road in McCloud and after six miles turn right on Squaw Valley Creek Road.
Follow to Cabin Creek Trailhead and put on at the confluence. Squaw Valley’s season is March to May. Look for an optimum level of 1,500 cfs on the McCloud River above Shasta Lake. Plan six to 12 hours to cover the 21 miles. The best on-river camping option is at the confluence with Beartrap Creek at mile 4.75 on river right.
Planning
Expect cold weather if you are camping for free at Cabin Creek Trailhead.
Water levels for the McCloud River can be found at www.dreamflows.com/flows-canv.php#California_Sacramento_Valley.
This article originally appeared in Rapid magazine, Early Summer 2010. Download our free iPad/iPhone/iPod Touch App or Android App or read it here.
