2026-01-05T16:00:00-08:00
Periods of moderate to heavy rain may fall this weekend over a decent snowpack from the Christmas storm system. Rain/snow elevations will be initially around 6500 to 7000 feet Saturday, increasing runoff as the snow melts. Flows in rivers may increase quickly and approach flood levels. Rain/snow elevations are forecast to drop below 6000 feet Sunday into Monday. * WHAT...Flooding caused by rain and snowmelt continues to be possible. * WHERE...A portion of northeast California, including the following area, Lassen-Eastern Plumas-Eastern Sierra Counties, including the Susan River near Susanville, and the Middle Fork Feather River near Portola. * WHEN...From Saturday morning through Monday afternoon. * 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. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Rockfalls are also possible in areas of steep terrain. The Susan River is currently forecast to reach action stage by Saturday afternoon, and the Middle Fork Feather River is currently forecast to reach action stage by Monday afternoon. However, greater than expected rainfall and/or delayed transition to snowfall could easily push the Susan and the Middle Fork Feather rivers higher. Slow rises and high flows are also expected on the Pit River near Canby. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Enhanced runoff and sediment transport are likely below recent burn areas, but debris flows are not expected. - For river forecast updates: https://www.cnrfc.noaa.gov For flood safety information: http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Summary
The ideal streamflow range for this area is between 200 and 800 cubic feet per second (cfs). This segment of the river is rated as a Class IV-V, which means it is recommended for experienced kayakers and rafters due to its difficult rapids and obstacles.
The segment of the river that runs through the Lower Horse Creek Canyon is approximately 4 miles long. This stretch of the river is known for its steep drops, tight chutes, and technical rapids, such as the "Staircase" and "Boulder Drop."
It is important to note that there are specific regulations in place for this area. All boaters must obtain a permit from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) before entering the river. Additionally, all boaters must wear a personal floatation device (PFD) and carry a rescue throw bag.
In conclusion, the Lower Horse Creek Canyon is a challenging whitewater river run in California, with an ideal streamflow range between 200 and 800 cfs and a Class IV-V rating. The segment of the river is approximately 4 miles long and features technical rapids and obstacles. Boaters must obtain a permit from the BLM and adhere to specific regulations while on the river.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2025-06-28 |
| River Levels | 287 cfs (3.54 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 112% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iv-v |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 11355500 |
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pit R Bl Pit No 1 Ph Nr Fall River Mills Ca
|
2140cfs |
Hat C Nr Hat Creek Ca
|
174cfs |
Burney C A Burney Falls Nr Burney Ca
|
168cfs |
Pit R Nr Canby Ca
|
202cfs |
Sf Pit R Nr Likely Ca
|
9cfs |
Cow C Nr Millville Ca
|
492cfs |
Lower Horse Creek Canyon
Begins 2.5 Miles West Of Little Valley, California To Juncture With The Pit River.
Begins Near Muck Valley To Ends Two Miles From The Fall River Valley
Upper Pit River Canyon