Colorado Whitewater

BEGINS 0.5 MILES UPSTREAM FROM END OF FERN LAKE ROAD TO EASTERN BOUNDARY OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK


STREAMFLOW: 95 CFS

Class IV-III River Run

The Whitewater River Run in Colorado begins 0.5 miles upstream from the end of Fern Lake Road and stretches to the eastern boundary of Rocky Mountain National Park. The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 100-500 cubic feet per second (cfs). The segment mileage of the run is approximately 10 miles and has a class rating of III-IV.

There are several specific rapids and obstacles within the Whitewater River Run, including the Entrance Rapid, which is a class IV rapid that requires a technical entry. The next notable rapid is the Narrows, which is a class III rapid that requires precise maneuvering. Other notable rapids include the Pinball rapid, which is a technical class III rapid, and the Plunge, which is a class IV rapid that requires a hard left turn before a steep drop.

There are specific regulations that apply to the Whitewater River Run. For example, all boaters are required to have a personal flotation device and a helmet. In addition, boating is only allowed during daylight hours, and commercial use of the river is prohibited without proper permits. It is important for visitors to be aware of and follow all regulations to ensure the safety of themselves and others on the river.

Overall, the Whitewater River Run is a challenging and exciting whitewater adventure for experienced boaters. Visitors should be prepared for technical rapids, precise maneuvering, and changing river conditions. Get driving directions.
BEGINS 0.5 MILES UPSTREAM FROM END OF FERN LAKE ROAD TO  EASTERN BOUNDARY OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
Last Updated 2024-04-25
River Levels 79 cfs (8.25 ft)
Percent of Normal 34%
Reporting Streamgauge GRAND LAKE OUTLET BLW CHIPMUNK LN AT GRAND LK
Elevation 8,371 ft.
River
Watershed Big Thompson

Nearby Camping
Location Campsites Reservations Toilets Showers Elevation
Pawnee 55 10,354 ft
Peaceful Valley 17 8,552 ft
Reverends Ridge - Golden Gate State Park 106 9,105 ft
Kelly Dahl 46 8,615 ft
Hermit Park Open Space Numerous 8,313 ft
Marys Lake - USBR 270 8,032 ft
Camp Dick 41 8,716 ft
Glacier Basin - Rocky Mountain National Park 150 8,604 ft
Olive Ridge 56 8,361 ft
Mountain Park 54 6,678 ft
Big Bend 8 7,717 ft
Kelly Flats 29 6,751 ft
Dowdy Lake 70 8,176 ft
Longs Peak - Rocky Mountain National Park 26 9,397 ft
West Lake 36 8,254 ft
Bellaire Lake 26 8,665 ft
North Fork Poudre 9 9,159 ft
Moraine Park Numerous 8,111 ft
Meeker Park Overflow 29 8,611 ft
Tom Bennett 10 8,963 ft
Jacks Gulch 56 8,100 ft
Buckingham 10 10,095 ft
Aspenglen - Rocky Mountain National Park 51 8,227 ft
Rainbow Lakes 16 9,961 ft
Cold Springs 38 9,331 ft