New-Mexico Whitewater
HEADWATERS RIO PENASCO, WATER CANYON AND BENSON CANYON TO CONFLUENCE OF BENSON CANYON AND RIO PENASCO SEC 10, T17S, R12E
STREAMFLOW: 12 CFS
• Class III-IV River Run
The Headwaters Rio Penasco, Water Canyon, and Benson Canyon to Confluence of Benson Canyon and Rio Penasco Sec 10, T17S, R12E in New Mexico is a popular whitewater river run for experienced kayakers and rafters. The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 300-900 cfs, with higher flows being more challenging.
The class rating for this run is a Class III-IV, with some rapids reaching Class V at higher flows. The segment mileage is approximately 9.5 miles, with the run taking around 4-5 hours to complete.
Specific river rapids/obstacles include the Entrance Rapid, Water Canyon Falls, Six-Pack Rapid, and Benson’s Hole. These rapids are challenging and require technical skill to navigate safely.
In terms of regulations, the area is managed by the Lincoln National Forest and a permit is required for overnight camping. Visitors are also required to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash.
Overall, the Headwaters Rio Penasco, Water Canyon, and Benson Canyon to Confluence of Benson Canyon and Rio Penasco Sec 10, T17S, R12E in New Mexico is a challenging and rewarding whitewater run for experienced kayakers and rafters. It is important to check the streamflow levels and practice caution when navigating the rapids. Get driving directions.
The class rating for this run is a Class III-IV, with some rapids reaching Class V at higher flows. The segment mileage is approximately 9.5 miles, with the run taking around 4-5 hours to complete.
Specific river rapids/obstacles include the Entrance Rapid, Water Canyon Falls, Six-Pack Rapid, and Benson’s Hole. These rapids are challenging and require technical skill to navigate safely.
In terms of regulations, the area is managed by the Lincoln National Forest and a permit is required for overnight camping. Visitors are also required to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash.
Overall, the Headwaters Rio Penasco, Water Canyon, and Benson Canyon to Confluence of Benson Canyon and Rio Penasco Sec 10, T17S, R12E in New Mexico is a challenging and rewarding whitewater run for experienced kayakers and rafters. It is important to check the streamflow levels and practice caution when navigating the rapids. Get driving directions.
| Last Updated | 2024-04-25 |
| River Levels | 8 cfs (2.01 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 88% |
| Reporting Streamgauge | TULAROSA CREEK NEAR BENT, NM |
| Elevation | 5,448 ft. |
| River | |
| Watershed | Rio Penasco |
Nearby Camping
| Location | Campsites | Reservations | Toilets | Showers | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Karr Canyon | 15 | 9,351 ft | |||
| Deerhead | 20 | 8,776 ft | |||
| Hoosier Canyon | Numerous | 7,800 ft | |||
| Alamo Peak Road | Numerous | 9,224 ft | |||
| Apache | 24 | 8,889 ft | |||
| Pines | 24 | 8,645 ft | |||
| Silver | 29 | 8,997 ft | |||
| Silver Overflow | 52 | 9,006 ft | |||
| Lower Karr Canyon | 6 | 7,838 ft | |||
| Sleepy Grass | 21 | 8,814 ft | |||
| Prestridge Hill / Hay Canyon | Numerous | 7,983 ft | |||
| Saddle | 16 | 8,948 ft |
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