Another active weather pattern with a moderately strong atmospheric river is expected in the Cascades, especially the Washington Cascades, beginning Monday and Tuesday. Moderate to heavy rain is possible at the Cascade crest with amounts decreasing away from the crest. By Tuesday night, snow levels drop to around 2500 feet and mountain rain will turn over to snow. Snoqualmie Pass and White Pass have a 45 to 65 percent chance of 2 feet of snow from Tuesday through Thursday night, while Santiam Pass has a 30 percent chance of 2 feet of snow in the same period. This precipitation will lead to river rises and potential additional flooding on the Yakima and Naches Rivers as well as an increased risk of rock and mud slides in areas of steep terrain and near burn scars. However, the transition to snow is expected to keep flooding at lower levels than the past few days. While the Yakima and Naches Rivers are forecast to reach minor flood stage by Tuesday and Wednesday, other rivers in the area are expected to remain below bankfull. Also, windy conditions are expected Tuesday night and Wednesday which may lead to difficult mountain driving conditions. Those living or having travel plans through the Cascades should be prepared for impactful weather next week.
The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 300-800 cubic feet per second (cfs), which typically occurs during the spring and early summer months.
This Class III+ run spans a distance of 9 miles and features several rapids and obstacles, including the "Slalom Rapid" and "Big Eddy." The run culminates in the Crane Prairie Reservoir, providing a calm and scenic finish to the adventure.
It is important to note that this run requires a Northwest Forest Pass to park at the Little Lava Lake Trailhead. Additionally, boaters must follow all Oregon State Marine Board regulations, such as wearing proper personal flotation devices and carrying safety equipment.
Overall, the Whitewater River Run from Little Lava Lake to Crane Prairie Reservoir offers an exciting and challenging adventure for experienced boaters, with stunning natural scenery along the way.
| Last Updated | 2025-12-11 |
| River Levels | 373 cfs (4.1 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 121% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii+ |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 14159200 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Cow Meadow Campground
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Cow Meadow
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Cow Camp Campground
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Crane Prairie
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Crane Prairie Campground
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Quinn River Campground
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