Paddle Report

Colorado River Segment 3a river run

Utah, USA Colorado River Segment 3a
Today high
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Tonight low
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Current flow
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% of normal
37%
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Linked streamgauge
-- cfs
Gauge height
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Colorado River Segment 3a -- Utah paddle run
Colorado River Segment 3a Utah · Colorado River Segment 3a
About this run

Colorado River Segment 3a

The Whitewater River Run located in Colorado River Segment 3A in the state of Utah is a popular destination for whitewater enthusiasts. The ideal streamflow range for this segment is between 1,000 and 7,000 cubic feet per second (cfs). This segment has a class rating of III to IV, making it challenging for intermediate to advanced paddlers. The segment is 9.5 miles long and features several exciting rapids such as Skull Rapid, Little Niagra, and Satan's Gut. These rapids are known for their steep drops, technical lines, and large waves. There are also several eddies and boulder gardens along the way that pose additional challenges for paddlers.

To ensure the safety of all visitors, there are specific regulations in place for this area. All boats must have a Type III or V personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board. Additionally, all boats must have a whistle and a throw rope. Boats must also be equipped with a permit, which can be obtained through the Bureau of Land Management. There are also specific regulations in place to protect the environment, including restrictions on camping and fires along the riverbank.

In conclusion, the Whitewater River Run in Colorado River Segment 3A is a challenging and exciting destination for whitewater enthusiasts. With its ideal streamflow range, class rating, specific river rapids/obstacles, and regulations, this segment offers a thrilling experience for those seeking adventure on the water.
StateUtah
RiverColorado River Segment 3a
Elevation4,094 ft
Current flow--
Percent of normal37%
StreamgageUSGS 09180500
Latitude38.8652°
Longitude-109.2737°
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 Colorado River Segment 3a -- useful for spotting upstream pulses and gauging which tributary is contributing what.

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 Colorado River Segment 3a 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 Colorado River Segment 3a

What's the optimal flow for Colorado River Segment 3a?

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 Colorado River Segment 3a.