* WHAT...For the Winter Weather Advisory below 1500 ft, wet snow expected. Additional snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches. For the Winter Storm Warning above 1500 ft, heavy snow expected. Additional snow accumulations 3 to 6 inches for the passes north of I-5, and the Illinois Valley except up to 10 inches for the southern portions of the Illinois Valley. 1 to 2 ft in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness region. * WHERE...For the Winter Weather Advisory below 1500 ft, this includes Grants Pass, Wilderville, Merlin, Galice and Agness as well as portions of I-5 and Highway 199. For the Winter Storm Warning above 1500 ft, this includes Cave Junction, Obrien, Selma and Wolf Creek. This also includes portions of I-5 and Highway 199 and the Sexton Pass, Smith Hill and Stage Pass on I-5, Hayes Hill on Highway 199 and Bear Camp road in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness. * WHEN...Until 10 AM PST Thursday. * IMPACTS...Travel may be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the evening and morning commutes. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Precipitation will be lighter and more showery tonight into Wednesday with mostly light accumulations. Another round of heavier snowfall is expected Wednesday night into Thursday. Visit weather.gov/mfr/winter for additional snow probabilities
The ideal streamflow range for this river run is between 1,000 and 5,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), with peak runoff occurring in May and June. The river has been rated as a Class III-IV, which makes it suitable for intermediate to advanced kayakers and rafters.
Along the river, there are several rapids and obstacles that add to the excitement and challenge of the run. Some of these rapids include the infamous Blossom Bar, which is a Class IV rapid that requires expert maneuvering and technical skill to navigate. Other notable rapids include Devil's Staircase, Upper and Lower Black Bar Falls, and Mule Creek Canyon.
There are specific regulations that must be adhered to when running this section of the river. All boaters must have a valid permit, and the number of boaters per trip is limited to 12. In addition, all boaters must carry appropriate safety equipment, including personal flotation devices, helmets, and first aid kits. The river is also subject to seasonal closures and restrictions, so it is important to check with local authorities before planning a trip.
In summary, the West Section Line of Sec 31, T40S, R10W to Confluence with North Fork Smith River in Oregon is a challenging and exciting river run with a Class III-IV rating. With its ideal streamflow range of 1,000 to 5,000 cfs, it offers a thrilling experience for intermediate to advanced kayakers and rafters. However, it is important to follow all regulations and safety guidelines when running this section of the river.
Wind
Humidity
| Last Updated | 2026-02-07 |
| River Levels | 347 cfs (0.2 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 27% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 14400000 |
Chetco River Near Brookings
|
1110cfs |
Smith R Nr Crescent City Ca
|
1390cfs |
Illinois River Near Kerby
|
662cfs |
Sucker Cr Bl Lt Grayback Cr Nr Holland
|
100cfs |
Indian C Nr Happy Camp Ca
|
227cfs |
Applegate River Near Wilderville
|
345cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Winchuck
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Ludlum
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Ludlum House Group Site Recreation Rental
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Ludlum Campground
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West Section Line Of Sec 31, T40S, R10W To Confluence With North Fork Smith River
Headwaters And Perennial Tributaries To West Section Line Of Sec 31, T40S, R10W
West Fork Illinois River
Headwaters Including Both Unnamed Forks And Rr Lakes To Confluence With Rough And Ready Creek
Confluence Of North And South Forks Rough And Ready To Middle Of Sec 15, T40S, R9W