During the remaining 4 miles on the lake, the predominant southwest winds can be moderate to strong and strenuous rowing is required. Afternoon thunderstorms and strong lake winds can produce high waves that can swamp rafts and canoes. Advanced Most river accidents occur on this section, the most challenging stretch of the river in the park. The river drops more steeply, with faster flows than in other sections south of Pacific Creek, giving boaters very little time to maneuver their craft. Complex braiding obscures the main channel.
Strong current can sweep boaters into side channels blocked by logjams.
This section of the river is as difficult as the preceding section. Fast moving water, braiding, channel selection, logjams and route finding require advanced boating skills. The river slopes steeply and the narrow riverway provides challenging whitewater for rafts and kayaks. In spring, increased water volume creates large standing waves, haystacks, laterals and large holes capable of flipping rafts. It can be scouted by walking the canyon rim trail along the west bank of the river.