* WHAT...Heavy snow expected above 5000 feet. Total snow accumulations of 6 to 12 inches above 5000 feet, with 2 to 4 feet above 6000 feet. Locally higher amounts at highest peaks. Winds gusting as high as 55 mph. * WHERE...West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County/Lassen Park above 5000 feet. * WHEN...From 10 PM Friday to 4 PM PST Monday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday evening through Monday morning commutes. Strong winds could cause tree damage. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels 6500-7500 feet Friday night into Saturday morning, lowering to 5000 to 6000 feet Saturday afternoon into Sunday, and further to around 4500 to 5500 feet by early Monday morning. Heaviest snow expected on Sunday.
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.
| Last Updated | 2026-01-01 |
| River Levels | 2740 cfs (7.21 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 144% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 11413000 |
N Yuba R Bl Goodyears Bar Ca
|
2510cfs |
Spanish C A Quincy Ca
|
713cfs |
Spanish C Ab Blackhawk C At Keddie Ca
|
810cfs |
Deer C Nr Smartville Ca
|
605cfs |
Butte C Nr Chico Ca
|
1700cfs |
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)