* WHAT...River and urban flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. Landslides possible in areas of steep terrain, and debris flows possible over recently burned areas. * WHERE...Counties in Oregon: Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill. Counties in Washington: Clark, Cowlitz, Pacific, Skamania, and Wahkiakum. * WHEN...From late tonight through late Thursday night. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Landslides and debris flows are possible during this flood event. People, structures, and roads located below steep slopes, in canyons, and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk from rapidly moving landslides. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - A prolonged atmospheric river is expected to bring periods of heavy rain to northwest Oregon and southwest Washington Monday through Wednesday, with periods of lighter rain continuing Thursday into Friday. Rivers draining the coastal mountains and several Willamette Tributaries have the highest chance of flooding at 40 to 80%. Chances for flooding along the Willamette mainstem remains low at less than 10%. Urban flooding is possible and water on roadways will increase the risk of hydroplaning. Landslides in areas of steep terrain will be possible, as well as debris flows over recently burned areas. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
The ideal streamflow range for this run is around 500-1000 cfs. This stretch of river is class III-IV, with some sections pushing into class V during high water. The segment mileage is approximately 10 miles from the Headwaters to the Confluence with Unnamed Creek West of Bruler Creek.
The Whitewater River features many challenging rapids, including Upper and Lower Bouncing Betty, The Wall, and Widowmaker. These rapids contain steep drops, technical moves, and big waves. There are also several sections with boulder gardens and tight channels that require precise navigation.
In terms of regulations, the Whitewater River is located within the Kalmiopsis Wilderness and is protected under the Wilderness Act. This means that visitors must follow Leave No Trace principles, and no mechanized or motorized equipment is allowed. Additionally, there are restrictions on group size and camping locations to protect the fragile ecosystem.
Overall, the Whitewater River run is a thrilling adventure for experienced whitewater enthusiasts. It is important to check current streamflow levels and weather conditions before attempting this run, as it can be dangerous during high water.
| Last Updated | 2025-12-06 |
| River Levels | 30 cfs (3.44 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 129% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 14180300 |
Blowout Creek Near Detroit
|
127cfs |
No Santiam R Blw Boulder Crk
|
1070cfs |
Breitenbush R Abv French Cr Nr Detroit
|
1040cfs |
Quartzville Creek Near Cascadia
|
1040cfs |
North Santiam River At Niagara
|
2780cfs |
Schafer Creek Near Lacomb
|
13cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
South Pyramid Horse Camp
|
||
Old Miners Meadow Group Use Area
|
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Southshore Campground
|
||
Yellowbottom Recreation Site
|
||
Cove Creek Campground
|
||
Yellowbottom
|
Headwaters To Confluence With Unnamed Creek West Of Bruler Creek
West Section Line Of Sec 31, T12S, R6E To Middle Santiam Wilderness Boundary
Middle Santiam River
Middle Santiam Wilderness Boundary To Willamette Nf Boundary
Confluence With Unnamed Creek West Of Bruler To Willamette Nf Boundary
Confluence With North Fork Breitenbush River To Detroit Reservoir