* 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 river run is between 800-2000 cfs, which typically occurs during the spring and early summer months. The class rating for this river is Class III-IV, making it suitable for intermediate to advanced paddlers. The segment mileage for this river run is approximately 13.5 miles, starting at the Middle Santiam Wilderness Boundary and ending at the Willamette National Forest Boundary.
There are several notable rapids and obstacles on this river, including Green Wall, Gut Buster, and Boxcar. Green Wall is a challenging rapid that requires precise navigation through a tight channel with a steep drop and strong currents. Gut Buster is another difficult rapid that requires paddlers to navigate through a narrow chute with large waves and technical maneuvers. Boxcar is a technical rapid that requires precise navigation through a series of boulder fields and drops.
In terms of regulations, all boaters are required to obtain a permit from the Willamette National Forest before embarking on this river run. Additionally, there are restrictions on camping and campfires along the river, and all boaters are required to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the environment. Overall, the Middle Santiam River offers a thrilling whitewater experience for experienced paddlers seeking a challenge.
| Last Updated | 2025-12-06 |
| River Levels | 81 cfs (3.49 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 210% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 14185900 |
Quartzville Creek Near Cascadia
|
1040cfs |
Blowout Creek Near Detroit
|
127cfs |
Schafer Creek Near Lacomb
|
13cfs |
South Santiam River Below Cascadia
|
1270cfs |
No Santiam R Blw Boulder Crk
|
1070cfs |
Smith R Ab Smith R Res Nr Belknap Sprgs
|
81cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
South Pyramid Horse Camp
|
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Old Miners Meadow Group Use Area
|
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Yellowbottom Recreation Site
|
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Yellowbottom
|
||
Fernview
|
||
Fernview Group Camp
|
Middle Santiam Wilderness Boundary To Willamette Nf Boundary
Middle Santiam River
West Section Line Of Sec 31, T12S, R6E To Middle Santiam Wilderness Boundary
Confluence With Unnamed Creek West Of Bruler To Willamette Nf Boundary
Headwaters To Confluence With Unnamed Creek West Of Bruler Creek
Headwaters Of Sevenmile Creek To Confluence With Latiwi Creek