Colorado Whitewater
BELOW BIG MEADOWS RESERVOIR DAM TO SEC 9 AND 10, T39N, R3E
STREAMFLOW: 865 CFS
• Class III-IV River Run
The Whitewater River run below Big Meadows Reservoir Dam to Sec 9 and 10, T39N, R3E in Colorado is a popular destination for whitewater rafting enthusiasts. The ideal streamflow range for this section is between 500-2000 cfs. The class rating for this section ranges from III-IV depending on the water level. The segment mileage is approximately 6 miles long and contains a variety of rapids and obstacles, including Rock Garden, Pinball, and S-Turn.
Rock Garden is a class III rapid that requires paddlers to navigate through a narrow chute with large boulders on either side. Pinball is a class IV rapid that features a series of large, unpredictable waves that can easily flip rafts. S-Turn is a class III rapid that requires precise maneuvering through a tight channel with two sharp turns.
As for regulations, this section of the Whitewater River is located on public land managed by the US Forest Service. A permit is not required for private boaters, but commercial outfitters must obtain a permit. Additionally, all boaters are required to wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) and follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize environmental impact.
Get driving directions.
Rock Garden is a class III rapid that requires paddlers to navigate through a narrow chute with large boulders on either side. Pinball is a class IV rapid that features a series of large, unpredictable waves that can easily flip rafts. S-Turn is a class III rapid that requires precise maneuvering through a tight channel with two sharp turns.
As for regulations, this section of the Whitewater River is located on public land managed by the US Forest Service. A permit is not required for private boaters, but commercial outfitters must obtain a permit. Additionally, all boaters are required to wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) and follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize environmental impact.
Get driving directions.
| Last Updated | 2024-04-25 |
| River Levels | 916 cfs (4.38 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 176% |
| Reporting Streamgauge | SOUTH FORK RIO GRANDE AT SOUTH FORK, CO. |
| Elevation | 8,229 ft. |
| River | |
| Watershed | Rio Grande Headwaters |
Nearby Camping
| Location | Campsites | Reservations | Toilets | Showers | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Beaver Creek | 14 | 8,523 ft | |||
| Stone Cellar | 5 | 9,476 ft | |||
| Highway Springs | 11 | 8,433 ft | |||
| Palisade - South Fork | 12 | 8,350 ft | |||
| Lower Beaver Creek | 23 | 8,465 ft | |||
| Park Creek - South Fork | 16 | 8,505 ft | |||
| Tucker Ponds | 16 | 9,678 ft | |||
| Hansons Mill | 5 | 10,859 ft | |||
| Cross Creek | 12 | 8,841 ft | |||
| Stunner | 10 | 9,849 ft | |||
| Mix Lake | 22 | 10,081 ft | |||
| Cathedral | 29 | 9,411 ft |
Weather Forecast
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