Headwaters In The Vicinity Of Hayden Pass In The East Central Part Of The Park Flowing East And South From An Elevation Of About 5700 Feet To Confluence With Station Creek Paddle Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Whitewater River, located in the state of Washington, begins in the vicinity of Hayden Pass in the east central part of the park and flows east and south from an elevation of about 5700 feet to its confluence with Station Creek.


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Summary

The ideal streamflow range for this river is between 500 and 1500 cubic feet per second (cfs) during the summer months.

The class rating for the Whitewater River is class III-IV, with some sections reaching class V during high water. The river has a total segment mileage of approximately 6 miles, with the most challenging rapids being located in the upper section. The river features several notable rapids, including S-Turn, The Notch, and Pinball.

To ensure the safety of all visitors, the National Park Service has implemented specific regulations for the Whitewater River. All visitors must wear a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) at all times while on the river. Additionally, all boats must have a whitewater permit and a properly outfitted safety kit, including a throw bag, whistle, and first aid kit. It is also recommended that visitors have previous whitewater experience before attempting to navigate the Whitewater River.

Overall, the Whitewater River offers a thrilling whitewater experience for experienced paddlers, with challenging rapids and beautiful scenery. However, visitors should take care to follow all regulations and use caution while on the river to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

River Run Details

Last Updated
River Levels 725 cfs (539.27 ft)
Percent of Normal +100%
Optimal Range 500-1500 cfs
Status Too Low
Class Level iii-iv
Elevation ft
Run Length 14.0 Mi
Streamflow Discharge cfs
Gauge Height ft
Reporting Streamgage USGS 12044900
       

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