Paddle Report

Headwaters In Sec 7, T11n, R18e To Blair Bridge river run

California, USA South Fork American River
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
800cfs
Optimal high
2,000cfs
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Headwaters In Sec 7, T11n, R18e To Blair Bridge -- California paddle run
Headwaters In Sec 7, T11n, R18e To Blair Bridge California · South Fork American River
About this run

Headwaters In Sec 7, T11n, R18e To Blair Bridge

The Whitewater River Run from Headwaters in Sec 7, T11N, R18E to Blair Bridge in California is a popular spot for whitewater rafting enthusiasts. The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 800-2000 cfs, which is generally available from April to June. The segment mileage for this run is approximately 12 miles, with a class rating of III-IV. The river rapids/obstacles in this run include several challenging drops and chutes, including "Meat Grinder" and "Souse Hole."

There are a few specific regulations to keep in mind when rafting on this river. First, all participants must wear a properly fitting personal flotation device (PFD) at all times while on the river. Second, all rafts must be equipped with a throw rope and a whistle. Finally, no glass containers or alcoholic beverages are permitted on the river.

It is important to note that the Whitewater River Run can be dangerous and should only be attempted by experienced rafters. As with any outdoor activity, it is essential to take all necessary safety precautions and to carefully scout the river before attempting any rapids. Sources such as the American Whitewater Association and local rafting companies can provide additional information and guidance for those planning to raft this run.
StateCalifornia
RiverSouth Fork American River
Elevation6,498 ft
Optimal range800 — 2,000 cfs
Current flow--
StreamgageUSGS 10336580
Latitude38.8105°
Longitude-120.0310°
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 Headwaters In Sec 7, T11n, R18e To Blair Bridge -- 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 Headwaters In Sec 7, T11n, R18e To Blair Bridge 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 Headwaters In Sec 7, T11n, R18e To Blair Bridge

What's the optimal flow for Headwaters In Sec 7, T11n, R18e To Blair Bridge?

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.