Idaho Whitewater

JOHNSON CREEK TO CONFLUENCE WITH HUNTER CREEK


STREAMFLOW: 1,430 CFS

Class II-IV River Run

The Johnson Creek to Confluence with Hunter Creek section of the Whitewater River in Idaho is a popular destination for kayakers and rafters. The ideal streamflow range for this section is between 500 and 1,500 cubic feet per second (cfs), with the best conditions occurring in the spring and early summer. The segment mileage for this stretch is approximately 22 miles, with class ratings ranging from Class II to Class IV.

The river features several notable rapids and obstacles, including Radio Wave, a Class III rapid with a large wave train, and Staircase, a Class IV rapid with steep drops and technical maneuvering. Other notable obstacles include House Rock, a large boulder in the middle of the river that requires careful navigation, and Boulder Slide, a steep and rocky section of the river with multiple drops.

There are several regulations in place for this section of the river. All boaters are required to have a permit, which can be obtained from the Forest Service. Additionally, all boaters must wear a properly fitting personal flotation device (PFD) and carry a whistle or other audible signaling device. Camping is allowed at designated sites along the river, but fires are only allowed in established fire rings.

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JOHNSON CREEK TO CONFLUENCE WITH HUNTER CREEK
Last Updated 2024-04-25
River Levels 2540 cfs (5.28 ft)
Percent of Normal 90%
Reporting Streamgauge SF PAYETTE RIVER AT LOWMAN ID
Elevation 3,778 ft.
River
Watershed North And Middle Forks Boise

Nearby Camping
Location Campsites Reservations Toilets Showers Elevation
Helende 10 4,189 ft
Big Roaring River Lake 12 8,081 ft
Little Roaring River Lake 4 7,847 ft
Bonneville 22 4,673 ft
Graham Bridge 4 5,686 ft
Big Trinity Lake 17 7,836 ft