California Whitewater

SMOKE CREEK


STREAMFLOW: 271 CFS

Class IV-IV River Run

Smoke Creek is a popular section of the Whitewater River in California, which offers a thrilling and challenging experience for kayakers and rafters. The ideal streamflow range for this stretch of river is between 800 and 1200 cubic feet per second (cfs). The class rating for Smoke Creek is Class IV, which means that it requires advanced skills to navigate the rapids and obstacles.

The segment mileage of this river run is around 6 miles, which can take anywhere between 2-4 hours to complete. The river rapids and obstacles in Smoke Creek include several challenging drops, sharp turns, and large boulders. Some of the major rapids to watch out for include Upper Smoke, Lower Smoke, and Smokestack.

It is important to note that there are specific regulations to the area, which are designed to ensure safety and environmental conservation. For instance, all participants are required to wear a life jacket and helmet at all times. Additionally, no littering or camping is allowed in the river or surrounding areas. These rules are enforced by park rangers, who may issue citations for non-compliance.

In conclusion, Smoke Creek is a challenging and exciting river run, which offers a thrilling adventure for experienced kayakers and rafters. The ideal streamflow range is between 800-1200 cfs, and the class rating is Class IV. With specific regulations in place, visitors can enjoy this beautiful natural resource while ensuring safety and environmental conservation. Get driving directions.
SMOKE CREEK
Last Updated 2024-04-25
River Levels 217 cfs (3.28 ft)
Percent of Normal 206%
Reporting Streamgauge SF PIT R NR LIKELY CA
Elevation 4,515 ft.
River
Watershed Smoke Creek Desert

Nearby Camping
Location Campsites Reservations Toilets Showers Elevation
Ramhorn Springs 10 5,671 ft
Dodge 11 5,746 ft