2026-02-01T20:00:00-07:00
* WHAT...Rapid rise in water levels and potential river flooding caused by an ice jam release is possible. * WHERE...The Roaring Fork River and Fryingpan River from Snowmass Canyon through the town of Basalt and downstream to the confluence with the Colorado River. * WHEN...Until 800 PM MST Sunday. * IMPACTS...A river ice jam release could result in a rapid increase in water levels and flow. Anyone near or in the Roaring Fork River or Fryingpan River should use extreme caution through the weekend. Rivers can fill with ice and debris in a matter of minutes downstream a river ice break. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - At 1107 AM MST, Emergency Management reported a river ice jam within the advisory area. Warmer weather forecast through the weekend could allow river ice jams to break and result in minor flooding downstream. - Some locations that may experience flooding include... Carbondale, Basalt, Snowmass, Snowmass Village, Emma, and El Jebel. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Summary
The best time to float this section of water is from May to September, with a recommended flow of 200-1000 cfs. The river features exciting rapids, including the Cemetery Rapids and the Entrance Exam, but also has sections of calm water allowing for scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Paddlers must navigate around several large boulders and be cautious of low-hanging trees. Overall, this run offers an enjoyable and adventurous experience for intermediate paddlers.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2023-06-13 |
| River Levels | 901 cfs (2.38 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 106% |
| Optimal Range | 600-8000 cfs |
| Status | Too Low |
| Class Level | II |
| Elevation | 5,726 ft |
| Run Length | 7.0 Mi |
| Gradient | 29 FPM |
| Streamflow Discharge | 350 cfs |
| Gauge Height | 1.5 ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 09085000 |
Hourly Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Lower Prince Creek Campground
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Thompson Creek Camp
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Upper Prince Creek Campground
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Avalanche Campground
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Avalanche
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Carbondale to Westbank (Pink to Black)
Catherine Store Section
Cemetery
Beaver Lake To Sweet Jessup Headgate
Shoshone Power Plant To Nf Boundary
Shoshone (Power Plant to Grizzly Creek)
Hyland Park
A E Axtell Park
Two Rivers Park