Headwaters To Boundary Of Rocky Mountain National Park Paddle Report

Summary

The ideal streamflow range for this river is between 500 and 1500 cfs, with the best time to run the river being from May to July. The class rating for the river varies between Class II and Class IV, depending on the segment.

The river run is approximately 26 miles long, and can be divided into three segments. The first segment is from the headwaters to the town of Tabernash, which is approximately 7 miles long and rated as Class II-III. The second segment is from Tabernash to the town of Granby and is approximately 10 miles long, with a rating of Class III-IV. The final segment is from Granby to the boundary of Rocky Mountain National Park, which is approximately 9 miles long and rated as Class II-III.

The river features several rapids and obstacles, including the Railroad Rapids, which is a Class III rapid that requires precise navigation to avoid rocks and other obstacles in the river. There are also several other Class III-IV rapids throughout the river, such as the Devil’s Elbow and the Pinball Rapids.

There are specific regulations in place for the Whitewater River Run, including a requirement for all boaters to wear personal flotation devices and a restriction on the use of motorized watercraft. Additionally, all participants in the river run must adhere to Leave No Trace principles, including properly disposing of trash and minimizing the impact on the surrounding natural environment.