* WHAT...Heavy snow. Total snow accumulations between 4 and 8 inches across much of eastern New Mexico with higher amounts of 8 to 16 inches above 9,000 feet. Localized areas in eastern Torrance, Guadalupe, and De Baca counties will receive between 8 and 10 inches. Bitterly cold temperatures will accompany the snow. * WHERE...Much of central to east central New Mexico, including Interstate 40 from Tijeras to Santa Rosa to the Texas border. * WHEN...Until 8 AM MST Sunday. * IMPACTS...Travel will become very difficult to impossible for an extended period of time, most notably along I-40 from Tijeras Canyon to the Texas border. The weight of accumulating snow will stress the power grid, potentially creating outages. An extended period of cold temperatures will increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Bitterly cold temperatures will also accompany this winter storm, with the coldest temperatures in the eastern plains of New Mexico. Temperatures will be coldest Sunday and Monday mornings when much of the eastern half of New Mexico will be in the single digits with wind chills below zero.
The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 500-1500 cfs. This section of the river is rated as class III-IV, which means it contains moderate to difficult rapids and requires experienced paddlers.
The segment mileage for this run is approximately 8 miles, which usually takes about 3-4 hours to complete. Some of the notable rapids and obstacles include "The Narrows," "The Squeeze," and "The Keening." These rapids require technical maneuvering and careful navigation.
There are specific regulations related to this area that paddlers need to be aware of. For instance, there is a mandatory portage at "The Narrows," which is a narrow and rocky section of the river that can be dangerous to navigate. Additionally, paddlers are required to wear personal floatation devices at all times while on the river.
In conclusion, the Whitewater River Run NF Boundary to Above McCrystal Campground is an exciting and challenging run that requires experienced paddlers. It is important to check the streamflow range, understand the class rating, and be familiar with the specific rapids and obstacles. Paddlers should also be aware of the regulations related to the area and take necessary safety precautions.
| Last Updated | 2025-11-21 |
| River Levels | 43 cfs (2.0 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 113% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 08254000 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
McCrystal
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McCrystal Campground
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Ring Place Camp
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Whiteman Vega
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Seally Canyon Camp
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McCrystal Creek Camp
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