Idaho Whitewater

HEADWATERS TO CONFLUENCE WITH ELK CREEK


STREAMFLOW: 52 CFS

Class III-IV River Run

The Whitewater River Run from Headwaters to Confluence with Elk Creek in Idaho is a popular destination for whitewater rafting enthusiasts. The ideal streamflow range for this section of the river is between 600 and 1500 cfs, with the best time to run being in the late spring and early summer when snowmelt increases water levels.

The class rating for this run ranges from II to IV, with the more challenging rapids located closer to the confluence with Elk Creek. The total segment mileage for this run is approximately 13 miles.

Some of the notable rapids and obstacles on this section of the river include the Staircase Rapid, which is a Class III rapid with a steep drop and large waves, and the Big Kahuna Rapid, which is a Class IV rapid with a large hydraulic feature that requires precise navigation.

It is important to note that the Whitewater River Run falls under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management and has specific regulations that visitors must follow. These regulations include requirements for personal flotation devices, restrictions on alcohol consumption, and guidelines for camping and fires. Visitors should also be aware of potential hazards on the river, such as downed trees and submerged rocks, and should always exercise caution while navigating the rapids.

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HEADWATERS TO CONFLUENCE WITH ELK CREEK
Last Updated 2024-04-25
River Levels 206 cfs (3.24 ft)
Percent of Normal 41%
Reporting Streamgauge DEADWOOD RIVER BL DEADWOOD RES NR LOWMAN ID
Elevation 5,182 ft.
River Deadwood-River
Watershed Upper Middle Fork Salmon

Nearby Camping
Location Campsites Reservations Toilets Showers Elevation
Deer Flat 5 6,214 ft
Pen Basin 6 6,696 ft
Bear Valley 10 6,405 ft
Buck Mountain 4 6,586 ft
Bonneville 22 4,673 ft