2025-12-06T17:00:00-07:00
...PROLONGED SNOW EVENT... .A plume of snow will continue to impacted north central Idaho into west central and southwest Montana tonight. The snow activity will decrease in intensity during the day on Friday, then a second plume of precipitation will impact the region late Friday through Saturday. * WHAT...Heavy snow expected. There is a likelihood of major winter storm impacts. Total snow accumulations 2 to 6 inches in the valleys and 9 to 18 inches in the higher terrain including Lolo Pass. * WHERE...Highway 11 Pierce to Headquarters, Highway 12 Lowell to Lolo Pass, Elk River, Elk City, Pierce, and Dixie. * WHEN...From 4 PM this afternoon to 4 PM PST Saturday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes, especially over higher passes.
Summary
The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 1,000-4,000 cfs, making it perfect for intermediate to advanced rafters. The run is classified as Class III-IV, meaning that it has some moderate to difficult rapids and obstacles, including House Rock, Cutthroat, and Black Creek Falls.
The segment mileage for Smith Creek to Confluence with Main Salmon is approximately 50 miles, and it takes about 3-5 days to complete the entire run. Along the way, adventurers will encounter stunning views of the Salmon River Canyon, wildlife, and unique geologic formations.
There are specific regulations to the area that all visitors should be aware of. The river is managed by the Bureau of Land Management, and permits are required for all overnight trips. Additionally, all visitors must follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash and waste. Camping is only allowed in designated areas, and fires are only permitted in fire rings.
In summary, the Smith Creek to Confluence with Main Salmon Whitewater River Run in Idaho is an exciting adventure for intermediate to advanced rafters. The ideal streamflow range is between 1,000-4,000 cfs, and the run is classified as Class III-IV. The segment mileage is approximately 50 miles, and visitors can expect to encounter unique rapids, stunning views, and wildlife. Specific regulations to the area include a required permit, Leave No Trace principles, designated camping areas, and fire ring restrictions.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2025-12-03 |
| River Levels | 1230 cfs (4.41 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 56% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 13310700 |
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
South Fork Campsite
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South Fork Island Campsite
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Dead Man Campsite
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Cove Creek Campsite
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Red Harlan Campsite
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Pine Tree Hole Campsite
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Smith Creek To Confluence With Main Salmon
Headwaters (Boise Nf) To Confluence With Smith Creek (Smith Creek Landing Strip) (Payette Nf)
Crooked Creek, Sec. 10, T25N, R7E To Gospel-Hump Wilderness Boundary