Scenic River Classifications

Rivers or segments of rivers selected for state scenic river designation are categorized into classifications based on set criteria to best suit the manner in which the river shall be managed. The three state scenic river classifications are:

Class I - Natural River Areas - Those rivers or sections of rivers that are free flowing, unpolluted, and with shorelines and scenic vistas essentially primitive and generally inaccessible except by trail.

Class II - Pastoral River Areas - Those rivers or sections of rivers that are free flowing, unpolluted, and with shorelines and scenic vistas partially or predominately used for agricultural and other recreational activities which do not interfere with public use and enjoyment of the river and shores.

Class III - Partially Developed River Areas - Those rivers or sections of rivers that are free flowing, unpolluted, and with shorelines and vistas essentially more developed.

Class IV - Olympic River Areas - Those rivers or sections of rivers in areas with river management zones affected by the works of man but which still possess actual or potential scenic values, the land adjacent to that which is managed by the state in cooperation with federal agencies, and which rivers are suited to recreational whitewater rafting.