2025-12-20T11:00:00-07:00
...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 Thursday 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.
Summary
The ideal streamflow range for this river is between 500-1500 cfs, making it a great spot for intermediate and expert level kayakers and rafters. The class rating for this river varies from Class III to Class V, with the most challenging sections being the upper and lower gorge, which feature steep drops and powerful rapids.
The segment mileage of Lake Creek is approximately 9 miles, with the upper gorge spanning 1.5 miles, the lower gorge spanning 2 miles, and the middle section spanning 5.5 miles. Some of the most notable rapids on this river include S-Turn, Black Hole, and The Notch, which can be challenging even for experienced paddlers.
Specific regulations for Lake Creek include obtaining a permit for commercial outfitters, as well as adhering to Leave No Trace principles and avoiding disturbing sensitive wildlife in the area. Additionally, it is important for paddlers to be aware of private land ownership in the vicinity of the river and to respect any posted signs or boundaries.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2025-06-28 |
| River Levels | 2020 cfs (5.64 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 48% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-v |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 13316500 |
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Witsher Creek Campsite
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Bullion Beach Campsite
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Cherry Creek Campsite
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Last Chance Campsite
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Desperation Bar Campsite
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Jeanette
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Lake Creek
Salmon River
French Creek
Payette Nf Boundary On Lake Creek (Just West Marshall Lake) To To And Including Chinook Campground