* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations 1 to 5 inches between 7500 and 9000 feet and 6 to 12 inches above 9000 feet. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph. * WHERE...Tusas Mountains Including Chama. * WHEN...From 5 AM Saturday to 11 AM MST Sunday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult, especially on Highway 64 near the Brazos Summit. Tire traction will be reduced. Extend the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels will vary between 8000 and 9000 feet on Saturday, then drop below 6000 feet Saturday night behind a strong cold front.
The ideal streamflow range for this section is between 500 and 1500 cfs, as anything lower than 500 cfs can be too shallow and anything higher than 1500 cfs can be too dangerous. The class rating for this section is between II to III, meaning that it is suitable for intermediate paddlers.
This section of the Whitewater River Run covers a distance of approximately 8 miles, starting from 15 Springs and ending at the FR 106 Bridge. Along the route, paddlers will encounter several challenging rapids, including the Big Horn Rapid and the Corkscrew Rapid, which require technical paddling skills and experience to navigate.
To ensure the safety of all paddlers, there are specific regulations that must be followed when paddling this section of the river. All paddlers must wear life jackets at all times, and it is recommended that they wear helmets as well. Additionally, motorized watercraft are not allowed on this section of the river, and all paddlers are required to practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and waste.
In conclusion, the Whitewater River Run from 15 Springs to FR 106 Bridge in New Mexico is a challenging yet rewarding section for intermediate paddlers. With the ideal streamflow range, class rating, specific river rapids/obstacles, and regulations in place, paddlers can safely enjoy the beauty and excitement of this section of the river.
| Last Updated | 2025-12-25 |
| River Levels | 38 cfs (3.39 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 96% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | None |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 08289000 |
Rio Ojo Caliente At La Madera
|
16cfs |
Rio Chama Below Abiquiu Dam
|
74cfs |
Rio Chama Above Abiquiu Reservoir
|
105cfs |
Rio Chama Near La Puente
|
56cfs |
Rio Chama Below El Vado Dam
|
100cfs |
Rio Grande At Embudo
|
612cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Canjilon Creek
|
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Canjilon Lakes Campground
|
||
Canjilon Lakes
|
||
El Rito
|
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El Rito Campground
|
||
Trout Lakes Campground
|