WEST BRANCH NELSON CREEK HEADWATERS TO CONFLUENCE WITH NELSON CREEK
River Runs • Kayaking • Whitewater
November 21, 2024
National Weather Service • Until 2024-11-21T16:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations between 1 and 4 feet possible from Friday afternoon through Tuesday afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 50 mph. * WHERE...West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County/Lassen Park Counties. * WHEN...From Friday afternoon through Tuesday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning and evening commutes. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels around 6000-7000 feet this morning, rising through the day and into Friday. Snow levels Friday afternoon around 6000-7000 feet, lowering to around 4500-5500 feet over the weekend. A brief break in snowfall will be possible from late Saturday afternoon into the overnight period with lighter snowfall amounts.
SUMMARY
| Last Updated | 2024-11-21 |
| River Levels | 205 cfs (6.23 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 247% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | ii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage |
USGS 11401920 |
The Whitewater River Run in California is a popular destination for kayakers and rafters, running from the West Branch Nelson Creek Headwaters to the Confluence with Nelson Creek. The ideal streamflow range is between 200-500 cubic feet per second (cfs), with higher flows being more challenging and lower flows requiring more technical maneuvers. The class rating for this run ranges from Class II to Class IV, depending on the section.
The segment mileage for this run is approximately 7.5 miles, with specific river rapids and obstacles including S-turns, boulder gardens, and drops. One of the more notable rapids is called "Fuji" and is a Class IV rapid with a large boulder in the middle of the channel.
There are specific regulations to the area, including the requirement for a valid California fishing license if fishing, and a permit is required for any camping in the surrounding areas. Additionally, all boaters must wear a personal flotation device (PFD) while on the river.
Overall, the Whitewater River Run is a challenging and exciting destination for experienced boaters, with its varying flow and class rating providing a unique and thrilling experience.
