Fortunately it is easily carried on the left. Portaging here gives one a chance to check out the first of many interesting geologic formations. The rocks in this case are a beautiful grey breccia, formed by ancient landslides or debris flows. The main hazards in the next several miles are downed trees, and running into rocks while gazing in awe at the 1000 foot cliffs girdling the creek bed. Pine trees huddle in shady north facing pockets high above the river, and numerous small waterfalls and streams tumble into the creek.
Fern grottos are common where springs seep out of the cliffs.
Sunblasted south facing slopes are often adorned with yuccas and other desert vegetation, contrasting sharply with lush oaks, sycamores, and bay laurels on the opposite banks. Most of this section is easy Class III, but portages around downed trees should be expected. About a third of the way into the run, a large rock landslide spills into the creek from river-left. This slide creates a formidable, seivy rapid that is easily portaged on the right bank. Soon thereafter lies the best whitewater of the run, in the first of two spectacular gorges.