Colorado Whitewater

BROWNS CANYON (FISHERMAN'S BRIDGE TO STONE BRIDGE) River Run
Whitewater Report

BUENA VISTA WHITEWATER PARK FRACTIONS

STREAMFLOW: 436 CFS

Class III-IV River Run

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The Whitewater River Run Arkansas River Segment 2 is a popular destination for whitewater enthusiasts in Colorado. The ideal streamflow range for this segment is between 800 - 2,000 cfs. The segment is rated as Class III-IV rapids, making it suitable for intermediate to advanced paddlers.

This segment covers 13 miles of the Arkansas River, starting at the Railroad Bridge in Howard and ending at the Texas Creek Bridge. There are several notable rapids and obstacles along the way, including the Pine Creek Rapids, which is a long and technical section of Class IV rapids. Other notable obstacles include the Three Sisters, a series of three large boulders in the middle of the river, and the Spike Buck Rapid, which features a large wave followed by a rocky drop.

There are specific regulations to be aware of when paddling this segment of the Arkansas River. The Bighorn Sheep Canyon section, which includes Segment 2, is designated as a "Wildlife Protection Area" by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission. As a result, paddlers are not allowed to stop on the shoreline or disturb wildlife in the area.

Overall, the Whitewater River Run Arkansas River Segment 2 is a challenging and exciting whitewater destination in Colorado. Paddlers should be experienced and familiar with Class III-IV rapids, and should be aware of specific regulations in the area. Get driving directions.
ARKANSAS RIVER SEGMENT 2
Last Updated 2024-04-25
River Levels 1610 cfs (13.63 ft)
Percent of Normal 134%
Reporting Streamgauge ARKANSAS RIVER BELOW GRANITE, CO
Elevation 8,629 ft.
River Arkansas-River
Watershed Arkansas Headwaters

Nearby Camping
Location Campsites Reservations Toilets Showers Elevation
Hecla Junction - Arkansas Headwaters State Rec Area Numerous 7,415 ft
Ruby Mountain - Arkansas Headwaters State Rec Area Numerous 7,651 ft
Mount Princeton 19 8,618 ft
Ohaver Lake 35 9,218 ft
Kite Lake 5 12,043 ft
Buffalo Springs 18 9,187 ft
Cascade 22 9,033 ft
Chalk Lake 19 8,743 ft
Fourmile 14 10,824 ft
Angel of Shavano 20 9,147 ft
Railroad Bridge - Arkansas Headwaters State Rec Area Numerous 8,039 ft
Horseshoe 19 10,538 ft
Weston Pass 14 10,277 ft