...ATMOSPHERIC RIVER TO BRING SIGNIFICANT MOUNTAIN SNOW... .A plume of subtropical moisture associated with an atmospheric river will bring significant mountain snow Thursday into Friday. Snow levels will rise above 5,000 feet Thursday night before quickly dropping Friday morning as strong cold front passes. The heaviest snow accumulations will impact higher elevations above 6,000 feet, especially across the Clearwater and Bitterroot Mountains. * WHAT...Snow expected. There is a likelihood of moderate to isolated major winter weather impacts. Total snow accumulations of 8 to 14 inches in the higher elevations, including Lolo Pass. Total accumulations of 3 to 7 inches across lower elevations. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph. * WHERE...Dixie, Elk City, and Highway 12 Lowell to Lolo Pass. * WHEN...From noon today to 10 AM PST Saturday. * IMPACTS...For MODERATE winter weather impacts, expect disruptions to normal activities. Hazardous traveling conditions. Use extra caution while driving. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels will briefly rise above 5,000 feet Thursday night before dropping below 3,000 feet Friday morning as a cold front passes.
The ideal streamflow range for this river is between 1,000 and 4,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), with the best time to run it being in late spring and early summer. The South Fork Clearwater River is rated as a class III-IV river, with several challenging rapids and obstacles along the way.
The segment mileage for this river run is approximately 47 miles, starting at Section 30, T29N, R5E and ending at the headwaters. Some of the notable rapids on the South Fork Clearwater River include Four Corners, Mile Long, and Schoolhouse. The river also has several boulder gardens and technical sections that require paddlers to navigate with precision.
It is important to note that there are specific regulations in place for the South Fork Clearwater River. For instance, commercial outfitters are required to have permits to operate on the river, and private boaters are required to obtain a permit as well. Additionally, there are restrictions on the use of motorized boats, and certain portions of the river are closed to boating during certain times of the year to protect fish habitat.
Overall, the South Fork Clearwater River is a challenging and exciting whitewater run that requires experienced paddlers to navigate safely. With the right conditions and careful planning, it can provide an unforgettable adventure for those who are up for the challenge.
| Last Updated | 2021-10-01 |
| River Levels | 42 cfs (4.68 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 104% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 13337500 |
Sf Clearwater River Nr Elk City Id
|
42cfs |
Sf Clearwater River At Stites Id
|
926cfs |
Salmon River At White Bird Id
|
7060cfs |
Clear Ck At Kooskia National Fish Hatchery
|
18cfs |
Selway River Nr Lowell Id
|
6890cfs |
Lochsa River Nr Lowell Id
|
7150cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Castle Creek
|
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Sourdough Saddle
|
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Fish Creek Group Use Campground
|
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Corral Creek
|
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Tenmile Creek Campsite
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