2026-01-05T16:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Moderate to heavy snow. Additional snow accumulations of 4 to 8 inches south of Interstate 80. For areas north of Interstate 80, 2 to 6 inches above 4500 feet, 8 to 24 inches above 5000 feet, and 1 to 3 feet above 6000 feet. Southwest wind gusts of up to 40 mph. * WHERE...West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County/Lassen Park above 5000 feet. * WHEN...Until 4 PM PST Monday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning commute. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels around 4500 to 5500 feet on Monday. Heaviest snowfall expected north of Interstate 80.
Summary
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.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2026-01-03 |
| River Levels | 112 cfs (2.26 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 240% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iv-v |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 10336645 |
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hell Hole
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Hell Hole Campground
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Big Meadows Campground
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Middle Meadows Group Campground
|
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Upper Hell Hole Campground
|
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French Meadows Campground
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Hell Hole Dam To Ellicotts Bridge
Ellicots Bridge To Big Grizzly Canyon
Interbay to Oxbow (End of the World)