* WHAT...Heavy snow with additional snow accumulations up to 1 foot between 1000 and 3000 feet, 2 to 3 feet above 3000 feet, and up to 4 feet at peaks. Light snowfall accumulations up to 2 inches below 1000 feet in Shasta and Tehama Counties. Winds gusting as high 45 to 55 mph. * WHERE...Portions of Northern California, now including elevations below 1000 ft in Shasta and Tehama Counties * WHEN...Until 10 PM PST Thursday. * IMPACTS...Dangerous to near impossible travel conditions with chain controls and road closures. Additional power outages from downed trees and power lines. Low visibility due to a combination of gusty wind and heavy snow. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels remain around 1500 to 2500 feet through Thursday in the Sierra Foothills with potential to see snow levels as low as 1000 feet. Snow levels potentially down to 300 feet along the southern Cascades, Shasta County, and Tehama County in the morning hours.
The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 500 and 1,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), which provides Class III and IV rapids. The run is approximately 10 miles long and features several challenging rapids, including Fishtail, Sledgehammer, and Triple Threat.
One of the most significant obstacles on this run is the Fishtail rapid, which is a narrow chute with a tricky entrance that requires precise maneuvering. The Sledgehammer rapid features a steep drop that requires careful navigation, while Triple Threat is a series of three consecutive rapids that require skill and precision to navigate.
There are specific regulations that visitors must follow when on this river run. All participants are required to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) at all times, and alcohol use is strictly prohibited. In addition, visitors are not allowed to camp or build fires within 300 feet of the river, and they must pack out all trash and waste.
Overall, the Whitewater River Run from Headwaters to Slate Reservoir is a challenging and exciting destination for experienced river runners. With the ideal streamflow range, Class III and IV rapids, and specific regulations in place, visitors can enjoy a safe and exhilarating adventure on this beautiful California river.
Wind
Humidity
| Last Updated | 2026-02-07 |
| River Levels | 2740 cfs (7.21 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 75% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 11413000 |
N Yuba R Bl Goodyears Bar Ca
|
533cfs |
Spanish C A Quincy Ca
|
120cfs |
Spanish C Ab Blackhawk C At Keddie Ca
|
209cfs |
Deer C Nr Smartville Ca
|
299cfs |
Butte C Nr Chico Ca
|
635cfs |
Little Truckee R Bl Div Dam Nr Sierraville Ca
|
3cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Sly Creek Recreation Area
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Sly Creek
|
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Sly Creek Campground
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Golden Trout
|
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Golden Trout Crossing
|
||
Cal-Ida Campground
|
Headwaters To Slate Reservoir
Slate Reservoir To North Yuba River
Confluence With South Fork Canyon Creek To Confluence With North Yuba River
Headwaters Of North Yuba River (Sec 10, T20N, R13 E) To One-Eighth Mile Downstream Of Confluence With Cherokee Creek
One-Eighth Mile Downstream From Confluence With Cherokee Creek To One-Quarter Mile Upstream From Confluence With Slate Creek
One-Quarter Mile Upstream From Confluence With Slate Creek To Bullards Bar Reservoir Spillway (Elevation 1902 Feet)