Tunnel Run (Ralston Powerhouse To Greenwood)
Class IV- TO IV Difficulty
STREAMFLOW: 1,500 CFS
Runnable73°, Sunny
The Tunnel Run section of the American River in California is a Class III-IV river run, with a total distance of 7.5 miles from Ralston Powerhouse to Greenwood. This section features a number of challenging rapids, including the infamous "Tunnel Chute" and "Chamberlin Falls." It is best to float this section in the spring months, when the snowmelt provides enough water flow to make the rapids more manageable. The recommended flow for this section is between 1,000 and 2,000 cfs. It is important for rafters and kayakers to be experienced and skilled in navigating Class III-IV rapids, as the Tunnel Run section can be dangerous for beginners.
Weather today, Sunny, with a high near 73. North northeast wind 5 to 11 mph becoming west northwest in the morning.
Status | Runnable |
Class Level | IV- to IV |
Elevation | 717 ft |
Run Length | 16.5 Mi |
Gradient | 23 FPM |
Streamflow Discharge | 1500 cfs |
Gauge Height | 2.0 ft |
Reporting Streamgage |
Nf American R A North Fork Dam Ca
USGS 11427000 |