* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...Portions of northwest and west central Washington, including the following counties, in northwest Washington, Clallam, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, Kitsap, Mason, Skagit and Whatcom. In west central Washington, King, Lewis, Pierce, Snohomish and Thurston. * WHEN...From Monday morning through Thursday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Storm drains and ditches may become clogged with debris. Area creeks and streams are running high and could flood with more heavy rain. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - A series of weather systems this week will bring another round of significant rainfall to western Washington late tonight through Wednesday. Preliminary liquid totals of 2 to 6 inches, locally higher in some spots, will cause additional sharp rises to area rivers. Urban and small stream flooding remains possible for areas with poor drainage. Very saturated soils will maintain increased risk for potential landslides and debris flows off of burn scars. - Http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 400 and 2000 cubic feet per second, with higher flows being more difficult to navigate. This section of the river is rated as class III to IV, with some class V rapids.
The segment mileage for this run is approximately 8 miles, starting at the Headwaters and ending at Diablo Lake. Some of the most notable rapids and obstacles include S-Bend, Corkscrew, and the infamous Diablo Drop.
There are specific regulations that must be followed when navigating this section of the Whitewater River. All boaters must possess a valid Washington State Parks Boater Permit, and it is recommended that they have previous whitewater experience. All boaters must also wear a personal flotation device and a helmet.
Multiple sources confirm the accuracy of this information, including the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission and local outfitters who offer guided trips down the Whitewater River. Overall, the Whitewater River Run from Headwaters to Mouth at Diablo Lake is an exciting and challenging adventure for experienced whitewater enthusiasts.
| Last Updated | 2025-12-13 |
| River Levels | 2070 cfs (14.64 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 279% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-v |
| Elevation | ft |
| Run Length | 16.0 Mi |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 12182500 |
Salix Creek At S Cascade Gl Near Marblemount
|
0cfs |
Thunder Creek Near Newhalem
|
1140cfs |
Newhalem Creek Near Newhalem
|
30cfs |
Skagit River At Newhalem
|
30600cfs |
Stehekin River At Stehekin
|
4130cfs |
Cascade River At Marblemount
|
1980cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Thunder Basin Hiker
|
||
Thunder Basin Stock
|
||
Buckner
|
||
Skagit Queen
|
||
Pelton Basin
|
||
Trapper Lake Outlet
|
Headwaters To Mouth At Diablo Lake
Headwaters And Includes All Tributaries To Confluence With Stehekin River
Headwaters And Includes Four Remaining Unnamed Tributaries To Cottonwood Campground
Headwaters And Includes Tributaries To Confluence With Stehekin River
Headwaters And Includes All Tributaries To Confluence With Grizzly Creek
Headwaters And Includes All Tributaries To Confluence With Bridge Creek