Paddle Report

State Highway 108 To Donnell Reservoir river run

California, USA Niagra Creek Class III-IV
Today high
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Tonight low
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Current flow
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% of normal
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Linked streamgauge
-- cfs
Gauge height
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Optimal low
500cfs
Optimal high
1,000cfs
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State Highway 108 To Donnell Reservoir -- California paddle run
State Highway 108 To Donnell Reservoir California · Niagra Creek
About this run

State Highway 108 To Donnell Reservoir

The Whitewater River Run is a popular destination for whitewater enthusiasts in California. This stretch of river, from State Highway 108 to Donnell Reservoir, spans approximately 8 miles and is rated as a class III-IV run, with some challenging rapids and obstacles that require skill and experience to navigate. The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 500-1000 cfs, which is generally found during the spring months when snowmelt is at its peak.

There are several notable rapids on this stretch of river, including "Deadman's Drop", "Satan's Cesspool", and "Pinball", all of which require precise maneuvering and quick decision-making. Other obstacles include boulder gardens, steep drops, and tight chutes, which add to the excitement and challenge of the run.

To ensure the safety of all participants, there are specific regulations that must be followed when running the Whitewater River. All participants must wear a properly fitting personal flotation device (PFD), and helmets are strongly recommended. Additionally, all boats must be equipped with a throw rope and a whistle, and all participants should have basic first aid and rescue training.

In conclusion, the Whitewater River Run from State Highway 108 to Donnell Reservoir is a thrilling and challenging stretch of river that requires skill and experience to navigate safely. With its class III-IV rating, ideal streamflow range, and challenging rapids and obstacles, this run is a popular destination for whitewater enthusiasts in California. However, it is important to follow all safety regulations and to have the necessary skills and equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
StateCalifornia
RiverNiagra Creek
ClassIII-IV
Elevation4,666 ft
Optimal range500 — 1,000 cfs
Current flow--
StreamgageUSGS 11277100
Latitude38.3273°
Longitude-119.9201°
Detailed forecast

Plan your run down to the hour

Same weather feed Snoflo's iOS app uses -- updated continuously from NOAA / yr.no. Watch the precipitation column on the meteogram; rain ahead of a run typically lifts flows 12-48 hours later depending on the basin.

Hourly detail

Next 5 days, hour by hour

Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.

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Deep dive

5-day forecast table

Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind. Each cell is colour-coded relative to the column min/max.

TimeConditionTemp (°F)Snow (in)Rain (in)Humidity (%)Wind (mps)Wind dir
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Long-term outlook

15-day temperature & precipitation

Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks -- the upstream story that drives next week's flows.

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Regional flow

Regional streamflow levels

USGS streamgauges around State Highway 108 To Donnell Reservoir -- useful for spotting upstream pulses and gauging which tributary is contributing what.

Whitewater safety

Check the flow before you run
Use the linked-gauge card and Regional Flow panel above. Class ratings change with flow -- a Class III at low water can become Class IV+ at high water.
Know your skill ceiling
Pick runs comfortably below your ceiling. Cold-water and big-water runs raise the consequences of any mistake.
Wear the right gear
Helmet, PFD, drysuit / wetsuit when water is below 60°F. Throw bag, knife, and whistle on your person, not in the boat.
Scout, set safety, and run with a team
Scout new rapids on foot, set safety with throw bags above the consequence pool, and run with at least one other competent paddler.
Respect the river
Strainers, undercuts, low-head dams, and wood can kill at any class rating. When in doubt, portage.

Set push alerts in the Snoflo app

Save State Highway 108 To Donnell Reservoir as a favorite, set a discharge threshold (e.g. "alert me when flow hits 600 cfs"), and the iOS app pushes the moment the linked gauge crosses.

FAQ

About State Highway 108 To Donnell Reservoir

What's the optimal flow for State Highway 108 To Donnell Reservoir?

The optimal flow depends on the section and the craft. Check the Run Details panel for the linked gauge and current status.

How fresh is the cfs reading on this page?

The linked USGS streamgauge reports continuously (every 15 minutes); Snoflo refreshes throughout the day. Hover the streamflow sparkline to read individual datapoints.

What's the whitewater class?

See the Run Details panel for the class rating Snoflo tracks for this run. Class ratings change with flow -- a Class III at low water can become Class IV in high water.

Where do I put in / take out?

Tap Directions in the hero above to open driving directions to the put-in. For shuttle planning, check the Nearby Boat Launches panel and the river run operator's site.

Can I get alerts when flows hit the optimal range?

Yes -- alerts are managed in the Snoflo iOS app. Favorite this run, set a discharge threshold, and you'll get a push the moment the gauge crosses.