ESFSEW A series of atmospheric rivers will provide rounds of increasingly impactful rainfall starting on Friday and continuing through early next week. Snow levels will remain around 5000 to 6000 feet. Expect rising rivers with potential for flooding especially for rivers flowing off the Olympics and Cascades. Urban flooding and landslides are also possible throughout this period as the soil conditions remain wet.
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 | 2025-12-03 |
| River Levels | 2070 cfs (14.64 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 49% |
| 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
|
301cfs |
Newhalem Creek Near Newhalem
|
30cfs |
Skagit River At Newhalem
|
4030cfs |
Stehekin River At Stehekin
|
640cfs |
Cascade River At Marblemount
|
494cfs |
| 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