California Whitewater

RATTLESNAKE CREEK


STREAMFLOW: 296 CFS



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Rattlesnake Creek is a tributary of the North Fork American River in the state of California. It is a popular whitewater run for experienced kayakers and rafters, with a class rating of III-IV. The ideal streamflow range for Rattlesnake Creek is between 300 and 800 cubic feet per second (cfs), which typically occurs during the spring months when snowmelt is at its peak.

The segment mileage of Rattlesnake Creek is approximately 6 miles, starting at the confluence with the North Fork American River and ending at the Rattlesnake Bar Bridge. The run features a number of challenging rapids and obstacles, including Rattlesnake, Bouncing Rock, and S-Turn.

There are a number of specific regulations in place for the Rattlesnake Creek area. For example, visitors are required to obtain a permit from the Bureau of Land Management before accessing the put-in and take-out points. Additionally, visitors are required to pack out all trash and leave no trace.

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RATTLESNAKE CREEK
Last Updated 2024-04-25
River Levels 73 cfs (5.38 ft)
Percent of Normal 60%
Reporting Streamgauge SF EEL R A LEGGETT CA
Elevation 712 ft.
River
Watershed South Fork Eel