2026-03-14T12:00:00-06:00
* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow possible above 5000 feet. There is a chance of major winter weather impacts. Total snow accumulations between 1 to 3 feet. Wind gusts of 40 to 60 mph. * WHERE...US Highway 12 over Lolo Pass, Dixie, and backcountry areas. * WHEN...From Wednesday afternoon through Saturday morning. * IMPACTS...Visibilities may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and blowing snow. The strong winds and weight of snow on tree limbs may down power lines and could cause sporadic power outages. Whiteout and blizzard conditions are possible in backcountry areas and may make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. For MAJOR winter weather impacts, expect considerable disruptions to normal activities. Dangerous or impossible traveling conditions. Widespread closures and disruptions to infrastructure may occur. Strong winds could cause tree damage. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels will be climbing Wednesday into Thursday afternoon, reaching as high as 5,000 feet near Lolo Pass and 6,000 feet across the southern Clearwater Mountains. The worst travel conditions are expected during the overnight and early morning periods.
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.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2026-03-08 |
| River Levels | 1230 cfs (4.41 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 123% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 13310700 |
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
South Fork Campsite
|
||
South Fork Island Campsite
|
||
Dead Man Campsite
|
||
Cove Creek Campsite
|
||
Red Harlan Campsite
|
||
Pine Tree Hole Campsite
|
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