Mississippi river runs
Live streamflow, whitewater class, and length for every paddleable section in Mississippi with a named USGS gauge. Built for kayakers, rafters, and canoeists.
Mississippi paddle map
See which Mississippi 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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Mississippi river runs today
What’s in range, the best bets by class and what’s running high — from live USGS gauges.
Mississippi may not be the first state that comes to mind when thinking about whitewater rafting and kayaking, but there are some hidden gems waiting to be explored by outdoor enthusiasts. One popular destination is the Chunky River, located near Meridian, which offers a mix of Class II and III rapids, making it perfect for both beginners and more experienced paddlers. The Pascagoula River also provides a unique kayaking experience, winding through a diverse ecosystem of cypress swamps and marshes in the southern part of the state.
For those seeking a more thrilling adventure, the Okatoma Creek in southern Mississippi is known for its challenging Class III rapids, providing a true test of skill for advanced paddlers. The Black Creek, located near Hattiesburg, is another favorite spot for whitewater enthusiasts, offering a mix of rapids and calm stretches surrounded by scenic wilderness. It's important to check streamflow levels before heading out, as water levels can vary depending on rainfall and dam releases. Safety should always be a top priority, so be sure to wear a life jacket, paddle with a buddy, and be aware of potential hazards such as submerged rocks and fast currents. So grab your gear, hit the water, and get ready for an unforgettable whitewater adventure in the heart of Mississippi.
Mississippi paddle report
| River run | Streamflow | Status | Runnable range | Class |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Jackson County Route 614 Bridge To Ends Approximately 2 River Miles From The Southern Terminus Of The Study Area | · | No reading | 57–875 cfstypical | II-III |
| East Forest Boundary To Forest Road 162 Crossing | · | No reading | 200–2,000 cfs | II-III |
| Forest Road 162 Crossing To Bridge On Blaisdell Lake | · | No reading | 200–2,000 cfs | II-III |
| 1 Mile West Of Alto Pass, Il To 1/2 Mile South Of Confluence With Clear Creek, West Of Trail Of Tears State Forest | 476 cfs | Too low | 801–11,804 cfstypical | · |
| 1/2 Mile Downstream Of Confluence With Kinkaid Creek To Confluence With Mississippi River, Approx 4 Miles South Of Grand Tower, Il | 79 cfs | Too low | 148–2,229 cfstypical | · |
About Mississippi 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 Mississippi streamflow data come from?
USGS streamgauges. Each Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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.