* WHAT...Dangerously cold wind chills of 45 to near 60 degrees below zero. * WHERE...Crow Wing, Aitkin, Pine, Koochiching, Cass, Itasca, Carlton, St. Louis, Cook and Lake Counties. This includes the Tribal Lands of the Fond du Lac Band, the Grand Portage Reservation, the Mille Lacs Band, East Lake, Hinckley, Lena Lake and, Big Sandy Lake areas and the Bois Forte Band, Deer Creek, Lake Vermilion and, Nett Lake areas. Other locations including Voyageurs National Park. The entire Boundary Waters is also included. * WHEN...Until noon CST Saturday. * IMPACTS...The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 55 degrees below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 5 minutes.
The ideal streamflow range for this river is between 200 and 700 cubic feet per second (cfs), which allows for a good balance of challenging rapids and navigable stretches. The river is rated as a Class II-III run, making it suitable for intermediate-level paddlers.
The segment mileage for the Whitewater River Run is 8.5 miles, starting at the diversion dam in St. Charles and ending at Riverton. Along the way, paddlers will encounter several rapids and obstacles, including the "Powerline Drop," "Tub Grinder," and "Lunch Counter." These rapids range in difficulty from Class II to Class III, depending on the water level.
To ensure the safety of paddlers and protect the natural environment, there are several regulations in place for the Whitewater River Run. Paddlers are required to wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) at all times, and alcohol is prohibited on the river. Additionally, there are designated access points for put-ins and take-outs, and paddlers are not allowed to disturb the riverbed or surrounding vegetation.
Overall, the Whitewater River Run is a challenging and rewarding whitewater experience for intermediate paddlers. It is important to consult multiple sources to verify current water levels and any updates to regulations or access points.
| Last Updated | 2025-11-28 |
| River Levels | 1920 cfs (5.24 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 40% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | ii-iii |
| Elevation | ft |
| Run Length | 27.0 Mi |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 05227500 |
Mississippi River At Aitkin
|
1010cfs |
Mississippi River At Brainerd
|
2040cfs |
Crow Wing River Near Pillager
|
560cfs |
Mississippi River At Grand Rapids
|
1030cfs |
Crow Wing River At Nimrod
|
279cfs |
Kettle River Below Sandstone
|
170cfs |