Pelkey Creek

An unassuming tributary of the Molalla River. This creek was probably a gem before it was overrun by the Labor Day wildfires of 2020. All the rappels are still there and are in great as of 2020, but expect major tiresome bushwhacking on the entrance, descent, and exit. The creek is full of woody debris, fallen logs, and lots of loose rock underfoot. The creek will probably get worse before it gets better as the undergrowth is unchecked and when the dead trees come down. It'll likely return to it's prior glory in another half-century.

From Molalla, take S Feyrer Park Rd east for ~2mi. Upon crossing the river, turn right on S Dickey Prairie Rd for ~5mi. Turn right and re-cross the river to the west side to enter the Molalla River Recreation Area. Turn left and follow the S Molalla Forest Rd for ~8mi. Just before a third bridge over the river, parking a pullout on the left. Drive-time from Molalla is about 30min. Head back north for ~7.5mi and turn left on Guernsey Rd. Follow it upward for 3.2mi before turning left on S Sawtell Rd for 7mi. At the junction, continue straight on S Family Camp Rd (gravel) for 1.3mi. Turn left on Gawley Creek Rd for 0.2mi. Take the first left and drive down to a parking area at the roads end. Be aware: target shooters sometimes set up shop in this location.

From the upper parking area, drop steeply down the hill through a jungle of ferns and briars to the creek just above R1. (5min) Head downstream a short distance. From R2 it's a long walk downstream to the next series of falls. The creek itself is a mess of woody debris, fallen trees, and loose rocks. It's probably easiest to exit the creek proper and make your way along game trails on one side of the creek or the other. In June 2022, the undergrowth was sometimes head-high making it difficult to see where you're putting your feet. Beware loose rocks, loose dirt, and random occasional leg-deep holes in the ground where a tree's roots burned out during the fire. Use caution. Where the creek bends right with a large ridge ahead is a sign you're nearing the end of this slog. Drop back in and round the corner to:

Exit immediately DCR up over the ridge into the clear cut beyond. Follow good logging track northward until it gives out and thrash your way down to the river. Again, beware loose terrain and holes you could break a leg in. At the river, follow fisherman's trail / old road northwest, passing Pelkey Creek to the lower bridge where you left your car.