...RED FLAG WARNING SATURDAY FROM NOON UNTIL MIDNIGHT FOR THE NORTHEAST HIGHLANDS, NORTHEAST PLAINS, AND CENTRAL HIGHLANDS DUE TO STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY... ...FIRE WEATHER WATCH SATURDAY FROM 3 PM UNTIL 8 PM FOR WESTERN NM, NORTH CENTRAL NM AND THE SANDIA AND MANZANO MOUNTAINS DUE TO STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY... ...FIRE WEATHER WATCH SUNDAY FOR ALL OF NORTHERN AND CENTRAL NM FROM 9 AM THROUGH 8 PM DUE TO STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY... .Critical fire weather conditions will impact much of central and northern NM through the weekend. On Saturday, westerly winds will increase areawide, but will start earlier and linger longer across eastern NM. Therefore, long duration critical fire weather conditions are expected across much of eastern NM on Saturday, while a more focused period of critical fire weather conditions are possible from mid afternoon through early evening elsewhere. Very strong to damaging winds will develop early on Sunday and persist through the afternoon as both a Pacific and backdoor cold front press through the area. With gusts between 50 and 70 mph and single digit humidity values in many areas, critical to extreme fire weather conditions are likely despite cooling temperatures. * AREA AND TIMING...Northwest Plateau (Zone 101), West Central Mountains (Zone 105), West Central Basin and Range (Zone 109), North Central Mountains (Zone 120), Upper Rio Grande Valley and Lower Chama River Valley (Zone 121), Sangre de Cristo Mountains (Zone 122), and Sandia and Manzano Mountains (Zone 124) on Saturday from 3 PM until 8 PM and again Sunday from 9 AM through 8 PM. * 20 FOOT WINDS...On Saturday, west winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph. The strongest winds will be during the evening. On Sunday, northwest winds 25 to 40 mph with gusts between 45 and 55 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...Minimum values between 6 and 15 percent with locally higher values across the peaks of the Tusas Mountains and Sangre de Cristo Mountains each day. * IMPACTS...Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.
This route runs from the El Rito Ranger District Boundary to the Felipito Bridge and covers a distance of approximately 7 miles. The ideal streamflow range for this section of the river is between 300 to 700 cfs. The class rating for the Whitewater River Run is Class III+.
This section of the river features several rapids and obstacles, including the Little Arsenic Rapid, the Big Arsenic Rapid, and the Pinball Rapid. The Little Arsenic Rapid is a Class III rapid that requires precise maneuvering to navigate through the rocks and narrow channels. The Big Arsenic Rapid is a Class III+ rapid that features a steep drop and large waves. The Pinball Rapid is also a Class III+ rapid that requires paddlers to navigate through several boulders and turbulent waters.
There are specific regulations that apply to this area. The use of personal flotation devices (PFDs) is mandatory for all watercraft users. Additionally, all kayakers and rafters must wear helmets while on the river. There are also restrictions on the use of alcohol and drugs while on the river.
In conclusion, the Whitewater River Run from the El Rito Ranger District Boundary to Felipito Bridge is a thrilling adventure for experienced kayakers and rafters. With its ideal streamflow range, class rating, specific rapids and obstacles, and specific regulations, it is a must-visit destination for water sports enthusiasts in New Mexico.
Wind
Humidity
| Last Updated | 2026-03-11 |
| River Levels | 816 cfs (3.9 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 90% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii+ |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 08284100 |
Rio Ojo Caliente At La Madera
|
23cfs |
Rio Chama Near La Puente
|
158cfs |
Rio Chama Below Abiquiu Dam
|
51cfs |
Rio Grande At Embudo
|
592cfs |
Rio Grande Near Cerro
|
437cfs |
Rio Chama Above Abiquiu Reservoir
|
83cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hopewell Lake Campground
|
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Hopewell Lake
|
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Canjilon Lakes Campground
|
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Canjilon Lakes
|
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Canjilon Creek
|
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Trout Lakes Campground
|