Chiwawa River

The Chiwawa River rises in the Glacier Peak Wilderness of the North Cascades on the southern slopes of Chiwawa Mountain and Fortress Mountain, then flows roughly thirty-seven miles south through the Wenatchee National Forest between Chiwawa Ridge and the Entiat Mountains before joining the Wenatchee River near Plain. Its upper watershed stays largely pristine, characterized by dense conifer forests, clear cold waters, and glacially carved valleys. Recreation centers on challenging hikes along the Chiwawa River Trail offering alpine views and meadows, whitewater kayaking and rafting through continuous class-two to class-three rapids, and camping at numerous sites beside the river and its access road.