HELL HOLE DAM TO ELLICOTTS BRIDGE
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 | 112 cfs (2.26 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 40% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iv-v |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage |
USGS 10336645 |
The Hell Hole Dam to Ellicotts Bridge stretch of the North Fork of the American River in California is a popular whitewater run for experienced kayakers and rafters. This segment covers 18 miles and is rated as class IV-V, with some of the most challenging rapids being the Staircase and the infamous Chamberlain Falls.
The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 800-1,500 cubic feet per second (cfs), although it can be run at higher flows with caution. It is not recommended to run this section at flows below 600 cfs, as it can become too rocky and difficult to navigate.
The area is regulated by the Bureau of Land Management and there are specific regulations in place to protect the environment and ensure public safety. These regulations include a permit requirement for commercial outfitters, a ban on alcohol and drugs, and limitations on group size.
Overall, the Hell Hole Dam to Ellicotts Bridge run is a thrilling and challenging whitewater experience that should only be attempted by experienced paddlers with the appropriate equipment and safety gear. It is important to check the current streamflow, weather conditions, and local regulations before embarking on this adventure.
