Rainfall from the past week has increased soil moisture to high levels across western Washington. Additional rainfall of around 2-6 inches is expected early this week. This amount of rain will 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 500 and 1500 cfs, and it has a class rating of III-IV. The segment mileage for this river run is approximately 5.5 miles, stretching from the wilderness boundary to the confluence with the Tye River.
Some of the notable rapids and obstacles on this river run include the "Meatgrinder," "Stinkbug," and "Boulder Drop." The Meatgrinder is a rapid that requires precise navigation through a narrow channel, while the Stinkbug is a technical and steep drop. The Boulder Drop is a class IV rapid with a large boulder in the middle of the river that requires careful maneuvering.
There are specific regulations in place for this area, including the prohibition of motorized watercraft and camping within 200 feet of the river. Additionally, a permit is required to enter the Alpine Lakes Wilderness area. It is important for river runners to be knowledgeable about the regulations and to practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the environment.
| Last Updated | 2025-12-11 |
| River Levels | 939 cfs (5.99 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 1118% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 12458000 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Waptus Lake Camp
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Rock Island
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Rock Island Campground
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Pete Lake Backpacking Site
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Trout Lake Creek
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Chatter Creek Campground
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Alpine Lakes Wilderness Boundary To Confluence With Tye River
Headwaters In Nw1/4 Of Sec 12, T24N, R13E To Alpine Lakes Wilderness Boundary
Alpine Lakes Wilderness Boundary To Private Land Boundary At North Section Line Of Sec 3, T23N, R14E
Headwaters In Sw 1/4 Of Sec 11, T24N, R13E To Alpine Lakes Wilderness Boundary
Headwaters At Josephine Lake To Alpine Lakes Wilderness Boundary
Headwaters At Outlet Of Trico Lake In Sw 1/4 Of Sec 5 T24N, R14E To Alpine Lakes Wilderness Boundary