Paddle Report

Black Canyon Cr - M6 river run

Oregon, USA Black Canyon Cr - M6 Class IV-V
Today high
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Tonight low
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Current flow
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% of normal
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Linked streamgauge
-- cfs
Gauge height
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Optimal low
500cfs
Optimal high
1,500cfs
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Black Canyon Cr - M6 -- Oregon paddle run
Black Canyon Cr - M6 Oregon · Black Canyon Cr - M6
About this run

Black Canyon Cr - M6

The Black Canyon Run on the Whitewater River in Oregon is rated as a Class IV-V run and is best suited for experienced kayakers and rafters. The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 500-1500 cfs. The segment mileage of this run is approximately 4.5 miles.

This run features several challenging rapids, including "Entrance Exam," "Punchbowl Falls," and "Veil Falls." The most significant obstacle on this run is the 70-foot Veil Falls, which requires careful maneuvering and a high level of skill.

It is important to note that the Black Canyon Run is subject to specific regulations. The run is located within the Mt. Hood National Forest and is managed by the USDA Forest Service. All boaters must obtain a permit before running this section of the river. Additionally, boaters must abide by all Forest Service regulations, including fire restrictions and camping restrictions.

In summary, the Black Canyon Run on the Whitewater River in Oregon is a challenging Class IV-V run with an ideal streamflow range of 500-1500 cfs. It features several difficult rapids, including the 70-foot Veil Falls, and is subject to specific regulations managed by the USDA Forest Service. Experienced kayakers and rafters looking for a challenging run should consider the Black Canyon Run, but should also be aware of the specific regulations in place.
StateOregon
RiverBlack Canyon Cr - M6
ClassIV-V
Elevation3,278 ft
Optimal range500 — 1,500 cfs
Current flow--
StreamgageUSGS 13217500
Latitude43.8511°
Longitude-117.8992°
Detailed forecast

Plan your run down to the hour

Same weather feed Snoflo's iOS app uses -- updated continuously from NOAA / yr.no. Watch the precipitation column on the meteogram; rain ahead of a run typically lifts flows 12-48 hours later depending on the basin.

Hourly detail

Next 5 days, hour by hour

Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.

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Deep dive

5-day forecast table

Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind. Each cell is colour-coded relative to the column min/max.

TimeConditionTemp (°F)Snow (in)Rain (in)Humidity (%)Wind (mps)Wind dir
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Long-term outlook

15-day temperature & precipitation

Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks -- the upstream story that drives next week's flows.

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Regional flow

Regional streamflow levels

USGS streamgauges around Black Canyon Cr - M6 -- useful for spotting upstream pulses and gauging which tributary is contributing what.

Around the run

Plan a longer trip

The closest boat launches, other paddle runs, and campgrounds so a day on the water can grow into a full weekend.

Whitewater safety

Check the flow before you run
Use the linked-gauge card and Regional Flow panel above. Class ratings change with flow -- a Class III at low water can become Class IV+ at high water.
Know your skill ceiling
Pick runs comfortably below your ceiling. Cold-water and big-water runs raise the consequences of any mistake.
Wear the right gear
Helmet, PFD, drysuit / wetsuit when water is below 60°F. Throw bag, knife, and whistle on your person, not in the boat.
Scout, set safety, and run with a team
Scout new rapids on foot, set safety with throw bags above the consequence pool, and run with at least one other competent paddler.
Respect the river
Strainers, undercuts, low-head dams, and wood can kill at any class rating. When in doubt, portage.

Set push alerts in the Snoflo app

Save Black Canyon Cr - M6 as a favorite, set a discharge threshold (e.g. "alert me when flow hits 600 cfs"), and the iOS app pushes the moment the linked gauge crosses.

FAQ

About Black Canyon Cr - M6

What's the optimal flow for Black Canyon Cr - M6?

The optimal flow depends on the section and the craft. Check the Run Details panel for the linked gauge and current status.

How fresh is the cfs reading on this page?

The linked USGS streamgauge reports continuously (every 15 minutes); Snoflo refreshes throughout the day. Hover the streamflow sparkline to read individual datapoints.

What's the whitewater class?

See the Run Details panel for the class rating Snoflo tracks for this run. Class ratings change with flow -- a Class III at low water can become Class IV in high water.

Where do I put in / take out?

Tap Directions in the hero above to open driving directions to the put-in. For shuttle planning, check the Nearby Boat Launches panel and the river run operator's site.

Can I get alerts when flows hit the optimal range?

Yes -- alerts are managed in the Snoflo iOS app. Favorite this run, set a discharge threshold, and you'll get a push the moment the gauge crosses.

More river runs

Other runs near here

Snoflo-tracked paddle runs within driving distance of Black Canyon Cr - M6.