Arizona Whitewater
FOREST ROAD 486 TO HELLSGATE WILDERNESS BOUNDARY
STREAMFLOW: 13 CFS
• Class III-IV River Run
The Whitewater River Run on Forest Road 486 to Hellsgate Wilderness Boundary in Arizona offers a thrilling adventure for experienced whitewater enthusiasts. The ideal streamflow range for this segment varies between 500-3000 cfs. The class rating of this section ranges from Class III to IV, with some technical rapids and obstacles that require advanced paddling skills. The segment covers a distance of approximately 10 miles and offers stunning scenery of the Tonto National Forest.
Some of the notable rapids and obstacles on this section include El Capitan Rapid, which is a Class IV drop that requires precise navigation. The Corkscrew Rapid offers a technical challenge and requires advanced maneuvering skills. Other notable rapids include Pinball and Nasty Habit. It is important to note that high water levels can make this section extremely dangerous and should be avoided.
Specific regulations to the area include the requirement of a permit from the Tonto National Forest, which can be obtained online or in-person. Camping is permitted in designated areas along the river, but campfires are only allowed in established fire rings. Littering and disturbing the natural environment are strictly prohibited. Visitors are also advised to carry out all trash and leave the area as they found it.
Get driving directions.
Some of the notable rapids and obstacles on this section include El Capitan Rapid, which is a Class IV drop that requires precise navigation. The Corkscrew Rapid offers a technical challenge and requires advanced maneuvering skills. Other notable rapids include Pinball and Nasty Habit. It is important to note that high water levels can make this section extremely dangerous and should be avoided.
Specific regulations to the area include the requirement of a permit from the Tonto National Forest, which can be obtained online or in-person. Camping is permitted in designated areas along the river, but campfires are only allowed in established fire rings. Littering and disturbing the natural environment are strictly prohibited. Visitors are also advised to carry out all trash and leave the area as they found it.
Get driving directions.
| Last Updated | 2023-12-06 |
| River Levels | 19 cfs (2.01 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 35% |
| Reporting Streamgauge | TONTO CREEK ABV GUN CREEK, NEAR ROOSEVELT, AZ. |
| Elevation | 2,523 ft. |
| River | |
| Watershed | Tonto |
Nearby Camping
| Location | Campsites | Reservations | Toilets | Showers | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rose Creek | 5 | 5,460 ft | |||
| Workman Creek Falls | 5 | 6,240 ft | |||
| Haigler Canyon | 14 | 5,314 ft | |||
| Upper Tonto Creek | 9 | 5,550 ft | |||
| Windy Hill | 347 | 2,167 ft | |||
| Crook | 26 | 7,626 ft | |||
| Grapevine Bay | 40 | 2,309 ft | |||
| Ponderosa | 61 | 5,680 ft | |||
| Sharp Creek | 28 | 6,007 ft | |||
| Tonto Creek | Numerous | 5,400 ft | |||
| Christopher Creek | 43 | 5,690 ft | |||
| Schoolhouse | 211 | 2,192 ft | |||
| Sawmill Flats | 5 | 5,560 ft | |||
| Mogollon | 26 | 7,656 ft |
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