California Whitewater
HELL HOLE DAM TO ELLICOTTS BRIDGE
STREAMFLOW: 3 CFS
• Class IV-V River Run
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. Get driving directions.
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. Get driving directions.
| Last Updated | 2023-11-30 |
| River Levels | 112 cfs (2.26 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 78% |
| Reporting Streamgauge | GENERAL C NR MEEKS BAY CA |
| Elevation | 6,243 ft. |
| River | |
| Watershed | North Fork American |
Nearby Camping
| Location | Campsites | Reservations | Toilets | Showers | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northshore | 15 | 6,411 ft | |||
| Fashoda | 30 | 4,869 ft | |||
| Pleasant Dispersed | 10 | 6,413 ft | |||
| Robinson Flat | 14 | 6,696 ft | |||
| Ahart | 12 | 5,341 ft | |||
| Woodchuck | 8 | 6,256 ft | |||
| Airport Flat | 16 | 5,383 ft | |||
| Camino Cove | 32 | 4,898 ft | |||
| Wentworth Springs | 8 | 6,153 ft | |||
| Wench Creek | 2 | 4,947 ft | |||
| Jones Fork | 10 | 5,052 ft | |||
| Hampshire Rocks | 30 | 5,921 ft | |||
| Lewis | 40 | 5,280 ft | |||
| Ice House | 83 | 5,493 ft | |||
| Northwind | 9 | 5,477 ft | |||
| West Point | 8 | 4,999 ft | |||
| French Meadows | 75 | 5,330 ft | |||
| Sunset | 139 | 4,970 ft | |||
| Gerle Creek | 50 | 5,272 ft | |||
| Strawberry Point | 10 | 5,440 ft | |||
| Hell Hole | 10 | 5,167 ft |
Weather Forecast
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