ROCK CREEK DAM TO CRESTA RESERVOIR
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 | 299 cfs (1.43 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 221% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | None |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage |
USGS 11390000 |
The whitewater river run from Rock Creek Dam to Cresta Reservoir in California is a popular adventure for experienced rafters. The ideal streamflow range for this segment is between 600-1500 cubic feet per second (cfs), which provides exciting rapids and a challenging run. The segment has a class rating of III-IV, indicating that it requires intermediate to advanced skills and experience.
The segment mileage is approximately 8.5 miles, which takes approximately 4-5 hours to complete. There are several specific river rapids and obstacles throughout the segment, including the Meatgrinder, the Chute, and the Pipeline. The Meatgrinder is a challenging rapid with a technical entrance, while the Chute is a narrow channel with a steep drop. The Pipeline is a series of small drops and waves that require precise maneuvering.
Some specific regulations to the area include the requirement of a permit to access the river, which can be obtained through the Plumas National Forest website. Additionally, all rafters must wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and helmets are highly recommended. The use of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited on the river, and rafters are responsible for leaving no trace and preserving the natural beauty of the area.
