Alabama river runs
Live streamflow, whitewater class, and length for every paddleable section in Alabama with a named USGS gauge. Built for kayakers, rafters, and canoeists.
Alabama paddle map
See which Alabama runs are in right now
Every run and gauge on one live map:
- Runnable now — too low, in range or too high
- Gauges — every river vs its normal flow
- Rain coming — 24/48/72-hr forecast, press play
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Alabama river runs today
What’s in range, the best bets by class and what’s running high — from live USGS gauges.
Best bets in range today — Class III: Confluence With Yellow River To County Road In Sec 7 (1,040 cfs) and Begins Approximately 1 River Mile Upstream From The U.S.… (15 cfs).
Alabama is a hidden gem for whitewater enthusiasts, offering plenty of thrilling river runs for kayaking and rafting. One must-visit destination is the Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River, particularly the Devil's Shoals section. This Class III-IV rapids provides a challenging yet exhilarating experience, especially after a heavy rain when the water levels are high. Another popular spot is the Mulberry Fork, known for its continuous Class II-III rapids and stunning scenery. Make sure to check the streamflow levels before heading out, as water levels can vary drastically depending on recent rainfall.
For a more leisurely paddle, the Tallapoosa River near Horseshoe Bend National Military Park offers serene Class I-II rapids, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxing day on the water. Safety is paramount when whitewater kayaking, so always wear a helmet and a personal flotation device, and make sure to paddle with a group or a guide if you're unfamiliar with the river. With its diverse range of river runs and picturesque landscapes, Alabama is a must-visit destination for any whitewater enthusiast looking for a thrilling adventure on the water.
Alabama paddle report
| River run | Streamflow | Status | Runnable range | Class |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Desoto Falls In Desoto State Park To Confluence With Little River | 5 cfs | Too low | 900–10,000 cfs | II-III |
| Al 35 Bridge To Ends One Mile Upstream From Al 273 Bridge | 5 cfs | Too low | 250–3,500 cfs | III-IV |
| Confluence With East And West Branches To Al 37 Bridge | 104 cfs | Too low | 250–3,500 cfs | II-III |
| Begins One Mile Upstream From Al 273 Bridge To Lake Weiss | 5 cfs | Too low | 250–3,500 cfs | II-III |
| Begins Approximately 1 River Mile Upstream From The U.S. Highway 98 Bridge To The Jackson County Route 614 Bridge | 15 cfs | Runnable | 10–148 cfstypical | II-III |
| The Confluence With Scarsborough Creek To The Confluence With The Escatawpa River | 15 cfs | Runnable | 10–148 cfstypical | II-III |
| Confluence With Yellow River To County Road In Sec 7 | 1,040 cfs | Runnable | 786–4,183 cfstypical | II-III |
| Southern Nf Boundary To Northern Nf Boundary | 154 cfs | Too low | 365–6,456 cfstypical | V |
About Alabama river runs
What does whitewater class mean?
The international whitewater scale (Class I–VI) rates a river's difficulty. I is moving water with riffles. II is straightforward rapids with clear channels. III requires complex maneuvers in fast water. IV is intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring decisive boat handling. V is extremely long, obstructed, or violent rapids with significant hazard. VI is considered impossible to run.
Where does the Alabama streamflow data come from?
USGS streamgauges. Each Alabama paddle run is keyed to a specific gauge that paddlers and outfitters have agreed represents flow on that section. Gauges report every 15 minutes; we re-pull throughout the day.
What's a runnable level?
Run-specific. A creek that's classic at 200 cfs might be too low at 100 and dangerously flooded at 1,000. Always cross-reference with a guidebook or a Alabama paddling club for the run's accepted gauge ranges before launching.
Can I get an alert when a run hits prime flow?
Yes. Save any paddle run as a favorite in the Snoflo iOS app, set a flow window (e.g. "alert me between 800 and 1,500 cfs"), and you'll get a push the moment it crosses into range. Free with a Snoflo account.
Is this a substitute for local guidebooks and trip leaders?
No. Snoflo is informational. Always carry appropriate skills, gear, and a sober assessment of the day's flow. For high-consequence runs (Class IV+), paddle with people who know the run and never solo. American Whitewater is the authoritative source for U.S. river information.