2025-12-17T14:00:00-07:00
* WHAT...Southwest winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 60 mph expected. * WHERE...Lower Hells Canyon/Salmon River Region, Orofino/Grangeville Region, Southern Clearwater Mountains, and Northern Clearwater Mountains. * WHEN...From 1 AM to 1 PM PST Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.
Summary
19, T39N, R13E to Road #581 near Moose Ck, Sec. 16, T39N, R11I is a popular destination for whitewater enthusiasts in Idaho. The ideal streamflow range for this segment is between 1,000 and 3,500 cubic feet per second (cfs), with the best time to run it being in late May to early June. The segment covers a total of 20 miles and is rated as Class III to IV, making it suitable for intermediate to advanced paddlers.
The river features several notable rapids and obstacles, including Devil's Tooth, a Class IV rapid that requires experienced maneuvering; Growler, a steep drop that can cause flips and wraps; and a tight canyon section known as the Squeeze. Paddlers should be prepared for technical maneuvering, rocks and boulders, and swift currents throughout the run.
Specific regulations to the area include a permit requirement for commercial outfitters, as well as a requirement to pack out all trash. The run is also subject to seasonal closures and restrictions, so paddlers should check with local authorities before planning their trip.
Sources consulted for this information include American Whitewater and Idaho River Sports.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2025-12-15 |
| River Levels | 506 cfs (2.57 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 134% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 12413875 |
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
St. Joe River At Red Ives Ranger Station Id
|
705cfs |
Nf Clearwater River Nr Canyon Ranger Station Id
|
2660cfs |
St. Regis River Near St. Regis
|
1530cfs |
Clark Fork At St. Regis Mt
|
9910cfs |
Lochsa River Nr Lowell Id
|
5670cfs |
Clark Fork Below Missoula Mt
|
5630cfs |
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Kelly Creek Camp
|
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Ruby Creek
|
||
Kelly Forks
|
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Kelly Forks Campground
|
||
Kelly Forks Cabin
|
||
Hidden Creek Campground
|
Source, Sec. 19, T39N, R13E To Road #581 Near Moose Ck, Sec. 16, T39N, R11I
Proposed Hoodoo Wilderness Boundary, Sec. 28, T10N, R26W To Mouth, Clearwater Nf
Road 581, Sec. 19, T39N, R13E To Mouth, Sec. 18, T39N, R10E