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 river is approximately 21 miles long and runs from its headwaters to its confluence with the Hoh River. The ideal streamflow range for the river is between 300 and 1,500 cubic feet per second (cfs). The river is rated as a Class III-IV, which means that it is a moderately difficult river with rapids that require technical skills and experience.
The Whitewater River is divided into two segments: the upper and lower sections. The upper section is approximately 12 miles long with class II-III rapids. The lower section is approximately 9 miles long and has class III-IV rapids. Some of the most challenging rapids on the river include Triple Drop, Power House, and Nozzle. There are also several obstacles on the river, including fallen trees and boulders.
Visitors to the Whitewater River are subject to specific regulations. The river is located within the Olympic National Park, which means that visitors must obtain a permit to access the river. Additionally, visitors must follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash. Camping is allowed in designated areas along the river, but fires are not permitted.
Overall, the Whitewater River is a challenging and scenic destination for kayakers and rafters. Visitors should be experienced and properly equipped to navigate the rapids and obstacles on the river.
| Last Updated | |
| River Levels | 725 cfs (539.27 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | +100% |
| Optimal Range | 300-1500 cfs |
| Status | Too Low |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Run Length | 83.0 Mi |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 12044900 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Elk Lake Campground
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13.3 Miles Camp
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13.2 Miles Camp
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Dodger Point Camp
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12.4 Miles Camp
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Lewis Campsite
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Headwaters And Includes All Tributaries To Confluence With Hoh River
Headwaters At About 4500 Feet In The Queets Basin From Glaciers On The Mount Olympus Massif And From The Queets Glacier On Mount Queets. To Southwestern Boundary Of Olympic National Park At End Of "Queets Corridor"
Headwaters At 4000 Ft To Beginning Of Hoh River Trial And End Of Upper Hoh Road.
Headwaters To Former Backwaters Of Lake Mills Created By The Former Glines Canyon Dam