2025-12-26T10:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Accumulation amounts uncertain at this time but may range from around a foot at 5500 feet and up 4 feet at highest elevations. Winds could gust as high as 45 mph. * WHERE...West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County/Lassen Park including Interstate 80 and Highway 50. * WHEN...From Tuesday evening through Friday morning. * IMPACTS...Dangerous travel conditions with chain controls and road closures possible. Low visibility due to combination of wind and heavy snow. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow accumulations will remain near or above pass level through Tuesday, then drop to around 5500 feet during the day Wednesday.
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 | 2025-12-18 |
| River Levels | 112 cfs (2.26 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 81% |
| 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)