Cherry Creek

Bird’s Eye View

Ah Cherry Creek, some of the most sublime and thrilling whitewater in the nation, let alone California. Its class V rapids provide a serious challenge and ultimate adventure to both expert kayakers and seasoned boaters. These waters should not be attempted by someone who has not had considerable class IV+ kayaking experience. Commercial rafting trips with a professional guide are recommended if you haven’t been commandeering your personal boat on other challenging Class IV+ & V rivers.

Cherry Creek Whitewater Photo Gallery

The “Creek” in a Nutshell

Difficulty: Solid Class V

Gradient: 110 ft/mi

Length: 8 miles

Season: June – September

Put-in: Holm Powerhouse

Take-out: Meral’s Pool

Who should go: Expert, experienced kayakers and rafters; intermediate rafters should book a trip with a commercial outfitter.

Whitewater & Scenery

Whitewater rapids are nonstop on the creek. Many Class IV rapids aren’t even named. Blind drops, boat-swallowing holes, and mandatory boofs will keep your heartrate up all day.

Read more about Cherry Creek Whitewater.

River Flows

Make sure to get started early because water shuts off from Holm Powerhouse at 11am. If you are doing are doing a trip on Cherry Creek, prepare for an early morning!

Learn more about Cherry Creek Flows.

Logistics

Casa Loma is the typically meet spot for both commercial and private trips. The road to put-in is easy, but boater joke that driving Lumsden Road, on the way out, is harder than running the river.