About
Tieton River, Washington — 1907 Tieton Dam Highest Earthfill, Rimrock Lake, Bumping River, Naches. Yakama Territory encompasses the Tieton Valley, where 25 miles of technical whitewater drop through Wenatchee National Forest in Yakima County. The Tieton runs Class III–IV from Rimrock Dam to Windy Point, then eases to Class II–III on the lower stretch to Naches. At 1,800 CFS average with an optimal range of 1500–3000, this is dam-controlled water that peaks during the annual September release — a whitewater pilgrimage that draws paddlers from across the Northwest. River Riders operates commercial trips on the upper section, where the gradient and boulder gardens create the most technical drops. USGS gauge 12492500 tracks the releases that transform the Tieton from a trickle to a Class IV run each fall.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.