The Santiam at 4,000 cfs is big water, and on this run there was a tree in play that we had to avoid.
Video: The Upper Santiam at 4000 CFS on the SOLWYRX Paddlesports YouTube channel.
At 4,000 cfs the familiar runs on the North Santiam change completely. Waves stack up, holes get grabby, and on the harder sections above, rapids that are moderate at medium flows become serious (Oregon Kayaking). I've seen what this river can do at high water firsthand, as I wrote in Spencer's Hole: The Morning I Saw It Coming.
Trees are the real danger
At high flows, wood is often a bigger threat than any rapid. A strainer lets water through but not people or boats, and the current pins you against it. Know where the wood is before you launch, scout anything you can't see around, and set your line early so you're never surprised. If it's a must-make move, row or paddle away from it well before you get there.
Swiftwater rescue training teaches strainer awareness better than any article can. See How Private Boaters Can Learn to Row and Rescue.
Music: "Rooftop Sunsets" by Alexey Anisimov (Tunetank). Source: Oregon Kayaking, Niagara section of the North Santiam
Personal trip report: flows, wood and hazards change, and what worked for me that day isn't a rule for your boat or group. Check current conditions, scout, and boat within your training.
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Updated October 28, 2026 · By Jacob Linkhart, owner of SOLWYRX Paddle Gear · Spot a mistake? Email me and I'll fix it.
