The White Salmon run continues below the standard BZ Corner to Husom run as it meanders down to the Lake backed up by the Condit Dam.  This dam is pending removal by the Washington Department of Ecology (Article on AW).  However, there are still a few miles of fun whitewater before you reach the lake.  Jessica and I ran this twice so she could try out her new Dagger Kingpin 6.1.  I had never done the run before the first run that morning with the rafting group, so it was fun to see the same river a few times in one day.  I enjoy getting on rivers twice the first day I run them...  I think it allows me to remember the run and the moves better.

The first rapid on the run is Rattlesnake Hole, which is a park and play spot all on its own.  Below the hole the river mellows to Class II+ for most of the run.  There are 4 distinct rapids, all good for beginners.  The lines are clear and not very difficult.  The first run, Jessica swam once in the largest rapid after hitting a combat roll and then going over the other side.  She also hit 2 other combat rolls on the run.

About half way down there is a Castle on the left side.  The story here (according to raft guide Andy Round...might be BS) is that some rich dude met a woman in Scotland, wanted to marry her, and she wouldn't leave unless he would build her a castle.  So he did, but then she dumped him, and now he's stuck with this awesome house.  Nice work gents. 

Jessica in front of the Castle.

After the Castle there are some currents and stuff, but it is mostly flat.

On the second run, Jessica got a few combat rolls and didn't swim.  First time on the river without swimming... good work...  We hitched the shuttle here back to Husom twice without a problem.  I think this section is way under rated for beginners, and just for beauty in general.  I enjoyed it.  There were also beautiful views of Mt. Hood on the way back into Hood River.

Mt. Hood towers over Hood River.  Jonathan Blum photo.

Looking down the gorge from the Hood River Toll bridge.  At least I got a nice picture for my $.75.

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