Colorado Whitewater

HEADWATERS TO ENDS 0.5 MILES UPSTREAM FROM END OF FERN LAKE ROAD


STREAMFLOW: -999 CFS

Class III-IV River Run

The Whitewater River Run in Colorado is a popular destination for kayakers and rafters. The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 300-600 cfs. The segment mileage for this run is 3.6 miles long, beginning at the headwaters and ending 0.5 miles upstream from the end of Fern Lake Road. The class rating for this run is Class III-IV, which means it is recommended for experienced paddlers.

There are several rapids and obstacles along the Whitewater River Run, including the "Punchbowls," a series of steep, narrow drops that create large waves and hydraulics. Other notable rapids include "The S-Turns," "The Pinball Machine," and "The Narrows."

Visitors to this area should be aware of specific regulations put in place by the park service. All visitors must obtain a permit before entering the area, and camping is only allowed in designated campsites. Additionally, visitors should be mindful of the surrounding ecosystem and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.

Overall, the Whitewater River Run provides an exciting challenge for experienced paddlers, but visitors should be prepared for the fast-paced, technical nature of the run. Safety should always be a top priority, and visitors should be aware of their limitations and skill level before attempting the run. Get driving directions.
 HEADWATERS TO ENDS 0.5 MILES UPSTREAM FROM END OF FERN LAKE ROAD
Last Updated 2024-04-25
River Levels 44 cfs (0.96 ft)
Percent of Normal -6691%
Reporting Streamgauge GRAND RIVER DITCH AT LA POUDRE PASS, CO.
Elevation 10,170 ft.
River Grand-River
Watershed Big Thompson

Nearby Camping
Location Campsites Reservations Toilets Showers Elevation
St. Louis Creek 17 8,859 ft
Hideaway Park Dispersed Numerous 8,784 ft
Sleeping Elephant 15 7,865 ft
North Fork Poudre 9 9,159 ft
Idlewild 24 8,893 ft
Big South 4 8,580 ft
Tunnel 49 8,608 ft
Green Ridge 78 8,360 ft
The Crags - State Forest State Park 26 9,917 ft
Chambers Lake 44 9,166 ft
Grand View 9 10,038 ft
Stillwater 129 8,315 ft
Aspen Glen 9 8,694 ft
Browns Park 28 8,450 ft
Big Bend 8 7,717 ft
Timber Creek - Rocky Mountain National Park 100 8,933 ft
Long Draw 25 10,059 ft
Arapaho Bay 84 8,337 ft
Sunset Point 25 8,297 ft