Winter Weather Advisory
2026-04-16T09:00:00-06:00

* WHAT...Snow expected. There is a likelihood of minor to moderate winter weather impacts. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches below 5,000 feet, with 5 to 10 inches in the higher terrain. * WHERE...Highway 12 Lowell to Lolo Pass, Highway 11 Pierce to Headquarters, Elk City, Elk River, Dixie, and Pierce. * WHEN...From 5 PM Wednesday to 8 AM PDT Thursday. * IMPACTS...For MODERATE winter weather impacts, expect disruptions to normal activities. Hazardous traveling conditions. Use extra caution while driving. Closures and disruptions to infrastructure may occur. The hazardous conditions could impact the Wednesday morning and evening commutes, especially over higher passes.

Paddle Report

Oregon

Last Updated: 2025-02-06

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The Hard Creek section of the Whitewater River in Oregon is a popular destination for kayakers and rafters.

Summary

The ideal streamflow range for this section is between 600 and 1200 cfs, with higher flows making the rapids more challenging. The class rating of the Hard Creek section is mostly Class III with some Class IV rapids, making it a moderate to difficult run.

The Hard Creek section of the Whitewater River spans approximately 6 miles, starting at the Hard Creek trailhead and ending at the Whitewater River campground. The rapids on this section include several technical drops, including "S-Turn" and "Boulder Drop," as well as a few larger waves and holes.

The Oregon State Marine Board requires all boaters to carry a personal flotation device, and helmets are strongly recommended. Additionally, a permit is required to launch a watercraft on this section of the Whitewater River. The permit can be obtained online or at several locations throughout the area.

Overall, the Hard Creek section of the Whitewater River offers a challenging and exciting run for experienced boaters, with stunning scenery and unique rapids. It is important to always check current streamflow conditions and follow all regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Regional Streamflow Levels

Little Salmon River At Riggins Id 1410.0cfs	1410cfs
Snake River At Hells Canyon Dam Id-Or State Line 19200.0cfs	19200cfs
Nf Payette River At Mccall Id 935.0cfs	935cfs
Lake Fork Payette River Ab Jumbo Cr Nr Mccall Id 311.0cfs	311cfs
Sf Salmon River Nr Krassel Ranger Station Id 1420.0cfs	1420cfs
Imnaha River At Imnaha 150cfs	150cfs

15-Day Long Term Forecast

River Run Details

Last Updated	2025-02-06
River Levels	23000 cfs (67.93 ft)
Percent of Normal	136%
Status
Class Level	iii-iv
Elevation	ft
Streamflow Discharge	cfs
Gauge Height	ft
Reporting Streamgage	USGS 13290450

Explore Interactive Map

Winter Weather Advisory
Until 2026-04-16T09:00:00-06:00 • National Weather Service
* WHAT...Snow expected. There is a likelihood of minor to moderate winter weather impacts. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches below 5,000 feet, with 5 to 10 inches in the higher terrain. * WHERE...Highway 12 Lowell to Lolo Pass, Highway 11 Pierce to Headquarters, Elk City, Elk River, Dixie, and Pierce. * WHEN...From 5 PM Wednesday to 8 AM PDT Thursday. * IMPACTS...For MODERATE winter weather impacts, expect disruptions to normal activities. Hazardous traveling conditions. Use extra caution while driving. Closures and disruptions to infrastructure may occur. The hazardous conditions could impact the Wednesday morning and evening commutes, especially over higher passes.

HARD CREEK

Paddle Report • Streamflow Levels • Weather Forecast

April 15, 2026

Last Updated	2025-02-06
River Levels	23000 cfs (67.93 ft)
Percent of Normal	136%
Status
Class Level	iii-iv
Elevation	ft
Streamflow Discharge	cfs
Gauge Height	ft
Reporting Streamgage	USGS 13290450