* WHAT...Light to moderate valley snow and heavy mountain snow. Several inches of accumulation below 7,000 feet, including 5 to 8 inches in Stanley and Ketchum. One to two feet accumulation above 7,000 feet, including two feet on Galena Summit. Wind gusts as high as around 45 mph. * WHERE...Big Lost Highlands/Copper Basin, Frank Church Wilderness, Sawtooth/Stanley Basin, and Sun Valley Region. * WHEN...From 5 AM Thursday to 5 AM MST Saturday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Thursday morning and evening commutes. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches.
The ideal streamflow range for this section of the river is between 800 and 1500 cfs, which offers a challenging yet manageable experience. The class rating for this section of the river is class III to IV, with some rapids reaching class V during high water.
The segment mileage of this run is approximately 6 miles. One of the most famous rapids on this section of the river is "Punch Bowl," which is a class IV rapid known for its large standing waves and technical maneuvering. Other notable rapids include "Double Drop," "The Wall," and "Little Falls."
There are specific regulations that paddlers must follow when navigating this section of the river. All boaters must have a valid Idaho State Parks permit, and all passengers must wear a properly fitted personal flotation device. Additionally, motorized watercraft are prohibited on this section of the river, and all boaters must adhere to Leave No Trace principles to protect the river's sensitive ecosystem.
In summary, the Whitewater River Run from Headwaters to Confluence with North Fork Big Wood River in Idaho is a challenging and exciting experience for experienced paddlers. With a class rating of III to IV, a 6-mile segment mileage, and notable rapids such as "Punch Bowl" and "Double Drop," this run is sure to provide a thrilling adventure. However, it is important to adhere to specific regulations and leave no trace principles to protect the river's ecosystem.
| Last Updated | 2025-12-17 |
| River Levels | 645 cfs (6.92 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 98% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-v |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 13135500 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Caribou
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Murdock Campground
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Murdock
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Wood River campground
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Easley
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Easley Campground (Wood River Valley Area)
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