HEADWATERS TO ELK MEADOW TRAILHEAD

RIVER RUNS
2024-12-05
6,222 ft 44.29, -115.07

Winter Storm Warning
2024-12-27T17:00:00-07:00

* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 4 and 19 inches. In the central Idaho mountains, including the towns of Stanley, Ketchum, and Hailey, amounts will range from 5 inches at the lowest elevation to more than 24 inches on the very highest peaks. For the areas bordering Utah, expect 1 inch at the lowest elevations to more than 20 on the highest peaks in that area. In the eastern and southeastern highlands, snowfall will range from 3 inches at lowest elevation to more than 20 inches in passes heading to Wyoming. * WHERE...Big Lost Highlands/Copper Basin, Sawtooth/Stanley Basin, Sun Valley Region, Wood River Foothills, Big Hole Mountains, Centennial Mountains - Island Park, Teton Valley, Bear River Range, Blackfoot Mountains, Caribou Range, Franklin/Eastern Oneida Region, Marsh and Arbon Highlands, Raft River Region, and Southern Hills/Albion Mountains. * WHEN...From 5 AM Thursday to 5 PM MST Friday. * IMPACTS...Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Thursday morning and evening commutes.


°F

°F

mph

Windspeed

%

Humidity

The Whitewater River in Idaho is a popular destination for rafting and kayaking enthusiasts. The ideal streamflow range for this river run is between 800-2,000 cfs, depending on the season and recent precipitation. The river is classified as class III-IV, which means it contains moderate to difficult rapids with higher waves and obstacles.

The Headwaters to Elk Meadow Trailhead segment of the Whitewater River is approximately 15 miles long and takes about 3-4 hours to complete. This section of the river contains several notable rapids, including "Big Eddy," "Elk Meadow Rapid," and "Jaws." These rapids require experienced paddlers and strong teamwork, as they can be challenging to navigate.

To ensure safety and preserve the natural beauty of the area, there are specific regulations and guidelines that visitors must follow. For example, all visitors must have an appropriate personal flotation device (PFD) and helmet. Additionally, camping and fires are only allowed in designated areas, and visitors must pack out all trash and debris.

Overall, the Whitewater River run from Headwaters to Elk Meadow Trailhead is a thrilling and rewarding experience for experienced paddlers. However, it is important to respect the regulations and guidelines to ensure safety and protection of the environment.

Last Updated 2024-12-05
River Levels 595 cfs (2.09 ft)
Percent of Normal 57%
Status
Class Level iii-iv
Elevation ft
Streamflow Discharge cfs
Gauge Height ft
Reporting Streamgage USGS 13295000
       

Get Unparalelled Insights

Explore the 3D Map

Whether you're planning your next ski trip or tracking stream flows for an upcoming rafting expedition, our map has it all.

Weather Forecast