Maryland river runs
Live streamflow, whitewater class, and length for every paddleable section in Maryland with a named USGS gauge. Built for kayakers, rafters, and canoeists.
Maryland paddle map
See which Maryland runs are in right now
Every run and gauge on one live map:
- Runnable now — too low, in range or too high
- Gauges — every river vs its normal flow
- Rain coming — 24/48/72-hr forecast, press play
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Maryland river runs today
What’s in range, the best bets by class and what’s running high — from live USGS gauges.
Best bets in range today — Class IV: Begins As River Passes Under The Herrington Manor Road Br… (318 cfs).
Maryland is a haven for whitewater enthusiasts, offering a variety of thrilling river runs for kayaking and rafting. One popular destination is the Upper Youghiogheny River, known for its challenging Class IV and V rapids and stunning scenery in the mountains of western Maryland. With a recommended streamflow level of 2.8-3.5 feet, this run offers adrenaline-pumping drops and technical maneuvers that will test even the most experienced paddlers. Another must-visit spot is the Potomac River's Great Falls, where kayakers can tackle the Class V rapids and experience the rush of navigating through steep drops and powerful currents.
For a more beginner-friendly experience, the Lower Youghiogheny River offers Class II and III rapids that are perfect for those looking to hone their skills. With a streamflow level of 2.2-2.5 feet, this run provides a fun and scenic adventure for paddlers of all experience levels. Safety is paramount when venturing out on Maryland's whitewater rivers, so be sure to check water levels, wear a properly fitting life jacket, and paddle with a group whenever possible. With its diverse range of river runs and stunning natural beauty, Maryland is a must-visit destination for whitewater enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable experience on the water.
Maryland paddle report
| River run | Streamflow | Status | Runnable range | Class |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Begins As River Passes Under The Herrington Manor Road Bridge At Oakland, Maryland To The Corporate Boundary Of Friendsville, Maryland | 318 cfs | Runnable | 180–1,000 cfs | III-IV |
About Maryland river runs
What does whitewater class mean?
The international whitewater scale (Class I–VI) rates a river's difficulty. I is moving water with riffles. II is straightforward rapids with clear channels. III requires complex maneuvers in fast water. IV is intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring decisive boat handling. V is extremely long, obstructed, or violent rapids with significant hazard. VI is considered impossible to run.
Where does the Maryland streamflow data come from?
USGS streamgauges. Each Maryland paddle run is keyed to a specific gauge that paddlers and outfitters have agreed represents flow on that section. Gauges report every 15 minutes; we re-pull throughout the day.
What's a runnable level?
Run-specific. A creek that's classic at 200 cfs might be too low at 100 and dangerously flooded at 1,000. Always cross-reference with a guidebook or a Maryland paddling club for the run's accepted gauge ranges before launching.
Can I get an alert when a run hits prime flow?
Yes. Save any paddle run as a favorite in the Snoflo iOS app, set a flow window (e.g. "alert me between 800 and 1,500 cfs"), and you'll get a push the moment it crosses into range. Free with a Snoflo account.
Is this a substitute for local guidebooks and trip leaders?
No. Snoflo is informational. Always carry appropriate skills, gear, and a sober assessment of the day's flow. For high-consequence runs (Class IV+), paddle with people who know the run and never solo. American Whitewater is the authoritative source for U.S. river information.