2026-01-08T10:00:00-08:00
Two fronts will bring impactful winter weather to the Cascades later tonight and again on Wednesday evening. Snow levels will fall to 2000 feet on Wednesday with snow possibly falling to the valley floors Wednesday night. * WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations 8 to 24 inches, with 19 to 23 inches in Crater Lake National Park and 8 to 11 inches over Mount Ashland ski park. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph over high and exposed terrain. * WHERE...The southern Oregon Cascades and Siskiyou Mountains. Including the locations of...Crescent Lake, Diamond Lake, Union Creek, Howard Prairie. This also includes the following passes or notable locations... Siskiyou Pass on I-5 at 4310 ft. Lake of the Woods on 140 at 5070 ft. Diamond Lake Junction on state highways 230 & 138 at 4478 ft. Mt. Ashland ski road and lodge at 6500 ft. Caves National Monument near highway 46 at 4000 ft. Willamette Pass on state highway 58 at 5090 ft. * WHEN...Until 10 AM PST Thursday. * IMPACTS...Travel may be very difficult to impossible. Road or highway closures are possible with feet of snow accumulation. The hazardous conditions could impact the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Probability of snow accumulation between 4 PM Tuesday to 4 PM Thursday. Probabilities don't always overlap the hazard's time range. Location >= >= >= >= 2in 8in 12in 18in -------- ---- ---- ---- ---- Siskiyou 78% 4% 0% 0% Pass Lake of 100% 54% 44% 35% the Woods Diamond 100% 99% 67% 42% Lake Junction Mt. A 100% 37% 15% 0% Lodge Crater 100% 97% 66% 44% Lake Visit weather.gov/mfr/winter for additional snow probabilities
Summary
Thielsen Wilderness area of Oregon and stretches from the wilderness boundary to Maidu Lake. The ideal stream flow range for this run is between 300-600 cfs. The segment mileage is approximately 9 miles and the class rating is considered to be class III-IV.
The river is characterized by continuous rapids, tight turns, and steep drops, making it a thrilling experience for experienced rafters. The river contains several notable rapids such as Zig Zag, Corkscrew, and Deadman's Drop which add to the excitement of the run.
As this is a wilderness area, there are specific regulations to be followed. A permit is required to access the area and groups are limited to 12 people. Additionally, campfires are not allowed within 200 feet of the river and all human waste must be packed out.
Overall, the Whitewater River run in the Mt. Thielsen Wilderness area of Oregon is a thrilling and challenging experience for experienced rafters. With the ideal streamflow range of 300-600 cfs, class rating of III-IV, and notable rapids and obstacles, it is sure to provide an exciting adventure while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding wilderness.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | |
| River Levels | 87 cfs (4.65 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | +100% |
| Optimal Range | 300-600 cfs |
| Status | Too Low |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 14313500 |
Kelsay Valley Campground / Trailhead
Kelsay Valley Trailhead Campground
Kelsay Valley Campground
Linda Lake Forest Camp
Inlet Campground
East Lemolo Campground
East Lemolo
Mt. Thielsen Wilderness Boundary To Maidu Lake
Oregon Cascades Recreation Area Boundary To Mt. Thielsen Wilderness Boundary
Lemolo Lake To Oregon Cacades Recreation Area Boundary