2025-12-26T22:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible from multiple lines of showers and thunderstorms, strong at times, moving across the area. * WHERE...San Francisco County, San Mateo Peninsula, East Bay, South Bay, and Central Coast * WHEN...Through Friday evening. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. Low water crossings may become flooded. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Numerous lines of showers and thunderstorms will move across the Bay Area and Central Coast through Friday evening. An additional 1-2" of rain is expected across the interior with locally higher totals between 2-3" across the Santa Cruz Mountains and up to 3" across the Santa Lucia Range. Flooding potential will increase with each successive round of rain. Sharp rises in smaller creeks and streams are expected with at least some potential for minor flooding in mainstream rivers. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Summary
The ideal streamflow range for this section of the river is between 800 and 2,000 cfs, with the best time to go rafting being in the spring when snowmelt is at its highest. The class rating for this section of the river is typically between III and IV, making it a challenging but manageable trip for experienced rafters.
The segment mileage for this run is approximately 7 miles, with several notable rapids and obstacles along the way. One of the most challenging rapids is called Pinball, which features a tight S-curve and several large rocks that can easily flip a raft if not navigated correctly. Other notable rapids include Roller Coaster, which features a steep drop followed by a series of large waves, and The Maze, which features a complex series of channels that can be difficult to navigate.
There are specific regulations to the area that visitors must follow, such as obtaining a permit to access the area and adhering to strict guidelines for camping and waste disposal. Visitors are also required to wear appropriate safety gear, including helmets and life jackets, and to follow the guidance of experienced guides when navigating the rapids.
Overall, the Whitewater River Run from Headwaters to Sportsman's Club offers a challenging and exciting rafting experience for experienced rafters. With its ideal streamflow range, class rating, and unique rapids and obstacles, this run is a must-visit for anyone looking for an adventure on the water in California.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2025-12-24 |
| River Levels | 67 cfs (4.76 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 19% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | None |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 11143000 |
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Arroyo Seco Nr Soledad Ca
|
233cfs |
Big Sur R Nr Big Sur Ca
|
151cfs |
Arroyo Seco Bl Reliz C Nr Soledad Ca
|
0cfs |
Salinas R A Soledad Ca
|
44cfs |
Carmel R A Robles Del Rio Ca
|
84cfs |
Salinas R Nr Chualar Ca
|
0cfs |
Horse Pasture (Adobe) Primitive Camp
Tassajara Creek Campground
Arroyo Seco Group Campground
Hanging Valley Campground
Arroyo Seco Campground
Arroyo Seco
Headwaters To Sportsman'S Club
0.25 Milesupstram Of The Impoundment At Sportsman'S Lodge To 0.25 Miles Downstream Of The Impoundment At Sportsman'S Lodge
0.25 Miles Downstream Of The Impoundment Of Sportsman'S Lodge To Ventana Wilderness Boundary
Ventana Wilderness Boundary To Nf Boundary