Designated Reach: October 28, 1988. From Big Springs to Big Cliff.
Classification/Mileage: Scenic -- 20.0 miles; Recreational -- 27.0 miles; Total -- 47.0 miles.
Originating in the Cascade Range, the Clackamas flows through a steep-walled canyon lined with dense forest and basalt crags on its way to the Columbia River. A superb fishery, spectacular scenery, and various recreational activities are its special features.
National Wild and Scenic River Designation. In order for a river to become a National Wild and Scenic River, it must be free-flowing and have at least one resource that is considered to be "outstandingly remarkable" -- i.e., of importance to the region or nation. Assessment of the Clackamas River found five different resource categories to be "outstandingly remarkable" -- recreation, fish, wildlife, historic, and vegetation.
Recreation Resources. The river offers a wide variety of recreation opportunities, including white water boating in close proximity to the Portland metropolitan area.
Fish. The Clackamas River provides necessary habitat for several anadromous fish species. It is the last significant run of wild late winter coho in the Columbia Basin, and it is also one of only two remaining runs of spring chinook in the Willamette Basin. In addition, it supports a significant population of winter steelhead.
Wildlife. The Clackamas River also provides habitat for the federally threatened bald eagle and northern spotted owl, and it is potential habitat for the threatened peregrine falcon as well.
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