Cougar Creek NE

The northeastern tributary of Cougar Creek (located south of Mt. St. Helens) is a canyon destination all on its own. This tributary drops into classic Cougar in the lower narrows. It has two nice technical sections separated by a long-ish creek walk. Warning: Cougar NE is a relatively high pay-to-play. Start early, and be prepared for a long day. There's a 2mi crosscountry hike out.

From the pulloff along the road, follow an old logging grade that leads right into the creek. Walk downstream a few hundred yards to R1.

There are several downclimbs not described in the beta. Not far below, reach a confluence with a minor tributary coming in DCL. This marks the beginning of a lengthy creekwalk, broken up by occasional rampy drops (often nuisance rappels). Expect it to take about an hour or so. Eventually, the canyon starts to narrow up with regular bedrock along the sides.

The final rappel in NE Cougar drops you into the narrows on classic Cougar. Water levels may double or more. You're not done yet, as there's still a giant logjam and +3 drops ahead, followed by a long hike out. This is detailed on the main page for Cougar Creek.