Rainfall from the past week has increased soil moisture to high levels across western Washington. Additional rainfall of of one to three inches is expected with the system today into Wednesday morning. This amount of rain will continue to put extra pressure on soil instability, leading to an increased threat of landslides and debris flows, especially from recent burned areas. This rain event could act as a trigger for new landslides. Areas most susceptible to landslides debris flows under these conditions are steep coastal bluffs, other steep hillsides or road cuts, and recent burned areas. A diminishing threat of landslides and debris flows will continue for several days after the rain ends. For more information about current conditions, visit www.weather.gov/seattle, select Hydrology, and then scroll down for the links to the landslide information pages. For more information on landslides, visit the website for the Washington State Department of Natural Resources landslide geologic hazards at: http://bit.ly/2mtA3wn
The ideal streamflow range for this river is between 1000 and 3000 cubic feet per second (cfs), which provides Class II-IV rapids. The segment mileage of the Whitewater River Run is approximately 15 miles, starting from the headwaters and including all tributaries to the confluence with the North Fork Skokomish River.
The river offers a range of rapids and obstacles, including Class II rapids with tight turns and small waves, Class III rapids with large waves and strong currents, and Class IV rapids with steep drops and powerful hydraulics. Some of the notable rapids on the river include the Pinball Rapid, the Corkscrew Rapid, and the Washing Machine Rapid.
To protect the natural habitat and maintain safety, there are specific regulations in place for the Whitewater River Run. All boaters are required to have a valid permit to access the river, and camping is not allowed along the riverbanks. In addition, all boaters must follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash and waste.
Overall, the Whitewater River Run is a challenging and exciting adventure for experienced whitewater enthusiasts. It is important to follow all regulations and safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
| Last Updated | 2025-12-15 |
| River Levels | 553 cfs (3.94 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 120% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | ii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Run Length | 9.0 Mi |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 12056500 |
Nf Skokomish R Bl Staircase Rpds Nr Hoodsport
|
1870cfs |
South Fork Skokomish River Near Union
|
3320cfs |
North Fork Skokomish River Near Potlatch
|
845cfs |
Wynoochee River Near Grisdale
|
2950cfs |
Skokomish River Near Potlatch
|
7300cfs |
Duckabush River Near Brinnon
|
1250cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Staircase
|
||
Staircase - Olympic National Park
|
||
Wagonwheel Camp
|
||
Spike Camp
|
||
Flapjack Lakes Camp
|
||
Big Log Camp
|
Headwaters- Includes All Tributaries To Confluence With North Fork Skokomish River
Headwaters To Confluence With North Fork Skokomish River
Headwaters- Includes All Tributaries Within Park To Olympic National Park Boundary
Headwaters- Includes All Tributaries And Excludes Flapjack Lakes To Confluence With North Fork Skokomish River