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WA - Cowlitz Falls Letterbox (NEW!!!)

1 messages in this thread | Started on 2002-09-21

WA - Cowlitz Falls Letterbox (NEW!!!)

From: Dave (fudrick@attbi.com) | Date: 2002-09-21 23:10:52 UTC
First some comments...

When I put 'cowlitz falls' in the search, I found a site that lists
many NW waterfalls, and a list of waterfalls that are no more, like
Cowlitz Falls. A good source for waterfall information.

A warning, the stamp is only 1.8 (uncertified) on the LBNASAI :-(



Cowlitz Falls

Nearest Town: Morton, Washington
County: Lewis
Placed: 9-17-02
Placed By: Fudrick
Clues: Trivial
Trek: Easy
Blackberries: delicious, in season

Cowlitz Falls is no more

Historically known as the Cowlitz Falls run and enjoyed as one of the
best bigwater runs in the state, this section is now buried beneath
the waters of Scanwea Reservoir. Construction of the Cowlitz Falls
project was completed in 1994 resulting in a 610 acre reservoir. In
the first edition of his guidebook published in 1991, Bennett
described Cowlitz Falls as follows, "The Falls begins with an
exciting ride over big rollercoaster waves, then through smaller
waves before hurling baoters around a left bend and into more
powerful hydraulics...at higher flows, the big waves that dominate
Cowlitz Falls become minature versions of rapids like Granite on
Hell's Canyon of the Lower Snake. This drop was dynamited and a 140
foot high dam now stands in its place

Cowlitz Falls Parks
The PUD has constructed a campground and day-use park for the public
at locations along the project reservoir

Day-Use Park
The park is situated along Lake Scanewa which was formed by the
Cowlitz Falls Dam. This is a nine acre park designed for "day use" at
a site where a unique wooden arch logging bridge previously spanned
the river. The Champion 200 Road that led you to the bridge now gives
access to the lake where it narrows and becomes confined within the
previous river banks. Picnic tables are found at various locations.
A boat ramp with a dock is available, as well as a small swimming
area for children. No overnight camping is allowed. The gate is open
from dawn to dusk. Use of the Park is free to the public.

Leonard "Bud" Allen Campground
The Campground offers a quiet natural environment. A good place to
stay while visiting Mount St. Helens and Mount Rainier, or to relax
and do a little fishing. The Campground covers 110 acres and provides
over 100 campsites, 40 with water and electric hookups. A picnic area
with tables and barbecue units is available. There are nature trails
for your walking and biking enjoyment as well as a play set for the
kids. A boat launch gives boaters access to the lake. Rainbow trout
are planted regularly throughout the summer.

To The Trailhead

The easiest way to get there is to follow the signs. As you drive
along US 12 you will see a brown sign at milepost 111 that will lead
you to the site. Turn south onto Savio Road. Turn right on Kiona
Road at the brown sign. Turn Right on Falls Road at the brown sign
to the Day Use Park; note the smaller blue signs. Turn left on 280
road at the blue signs. Follow the curve to the left to get on 200
Road, which takes you right to the Day Use Park. Park in the lot,
out of the way of the boat launch.

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