Packsaddle Creek

This creek was overrun by the Beachie/Santiam Fire in Sept 2020 but has reopened. Use extreme caution when descending the creek. Between landslides, fallen trees, and loose rocks, this area may be unstable and dangerous for years to come. The canyon may have changed dramatically. Do not rely on the beta below being accurate. A nice short creek, good for beginners. Good for training. Best visited in the spring for decent water. Don't bother after June. Possibly a good one to visit when everything else in the area is running high.

From Gates, OR, head east on Hwy 22 for ~2mi and turn off onto an unsigned gravel road on the left (44.75566, -122.37628). Follow the road upward for ~2.9mi to where it crosses Packsaddle Creek. Road is a notch overgrown, but otherwise in good shape as of 2019. Park just past the creek in a wide grassy area on the left. From the parking area, proceed east down the road maybe 100ft and look for a flat area on the left/north where it’s easy to get into the forest. Follow a game trail up onto the ridge (steep at first) and then upwards wherever is easiest. Gain 600ft vertical and on nearing 2800ft elevation the terrain eases off. Bear left and keep going until you reach Packsaddle Creek. First rappel comes immediately after the drop-in.

Walk down through one last bedrock section. Road is visible ahead, so thrash out wherever is easiest.