Minnesota Whitewater

CARLTON COUNTY STATE AID HIGHWAY #12 BRIDGE TO THE SITE OF OLD SANDSTONE HYDROELECTRIC DAM


STREAMFLOW: 1,320 CFS

Class II-III River Run

The Whitewater River run in Carlton County, Minnesota spans a 7.5-mile segment from the Carlton County State Aid Highway #12 Bridge to the old Sandstone Hydroelectric Dam site. The ideal streamflow range for this section of the river is between 100 and 600 cubic feet per second (cfs), with peak flows occurring in the spring and after heavy rainfall.

The Whitewater River run is rated as a Class II-III rapids, with some sections reaching a Class IV difficulty level. The river features several rapids and obstacles, including the "Wave", "The Potholes", and "The Pipeline", which offer exciting challenges for experienced paddlers.

Specific regulations for the area include a requirement for a valid Minnesota watercraft registration or a non-resident watercraft permit for all motorized watercraft. Paddlers are also required to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) at all times while on the river.

The Whitewater River run is a popular destination for whitewater enthusiasts seeking a challenging and scenic paddle. It is important to check streamflow levels and weather conditions before embarking on this adventure, as conditions can change rapidly and affect the difficulty of the rapids. Additionally, all paddlers should have the appropriate experience and skills to navigate the rapids safely. Get driving directions.
 CARLTON COUNTY STATE AID HIGHWAY #12 BRIDGE TO  THE SITE OF OLD SANDSTONE HYDROELECTRIC DAM
Last Updated 2024-04-25
River Levels 187 cfs (4.17 ft)
Percent of Normal 47%
Reporting Streamgauge KETTLE RIVER BELOW SANDSTONE, MN
Elevation 936 ft.
River Kettle-River
Watershed Kettle

Nearby Camping
Location Campsites Reservations Toilets Showers Elevation
St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park 70 869 ft
Buhl RV Park 10 1,521 ft
Lake Byllesby Regional Park 60 868 ft
Old Railroad Bridge - St. Croix National Scenic River Numerous 782 ft
William OBrien State Park 125 797 ft
Moose Lake City Park 82 1,053 ft
Sunrise Ferry Landing - St. Croix National Scenic River Numerous 789 ft
Banning State Park 35 1,118 ft
County O Landing - St. Croix National Scenic River Numerous 781 ft
Willow River - Gen Andrews State Forest 38 1,048 ft
Veterans Campground - Big Marine Lake Numerous 962 ft
Stubler Beach 8 1,511 ft
Snake River - Chengwatana State Forest 28 828 ft
Lake Elmo County Park Preserve 80 908 ft
Afton State Park 25 970 ft
McCarthy Beach State Park 90 1,393 ft
St. Croix - Governor Knowles State Forest 30 814 ft
Sandrock Cliffs - St. Croix National Scenic River Numerous 891 ft
Ash River - Kabetogama State Forest 8 1,130 ft