North Fork Washougal By Jason Rackley Location: Washington, Western Columbia Gorge Class: IV ( V ) Gradient: 128 fpm Length: 5.71 miles Flow: 1,000 cfs estimated, see flow details at the end of report Nature: Short bedrock slides and ledges, narrow gorges, waterfalls Torture Factor : Low Copyright © 2009 , Oregon Kayaking. No part of this page may be reproduced, linked, or copied without the express written permission of the Oregon Kayaking webmaster. Despite its close proximity to Portland, the North Fork Washougal spent years in relative obscurity because it wasn't possible determine flows in the Washougal drainage. All of that changed when a gauge was installed a few years ago, and this run has steadily gained popularity ever since. In my opinion, the North Fork of the Washougal is the best class four 'back yard' run for Portland paddlers when the flows are righ...