This river run begins at Kepler Cascades and continues for approximately 16 miles until it reaches the confluence with the Madison River. The ideal streamflow range for this segment of the river is between 1,000 and 4,000 cubic feet per second (cfs).
The class rating for this river run is a class III-IV, which is considered intermediate to advanced rapids. The segment is divided into several sections, including the Upper Whitewater, Lower Whitewater, and Yankee Jim Canyon. The Upper Whitewater section contains several class III rapids, including Big Kahuna, Lunch Counter, and the famous Champagne Rapid. The Lower Whitewater section contains more technical class IV rapids, including the Narrows, No Name, and Stovepipe. Yankee Jim Canyon is a narrow section of the river with steep canyon walls and several class III-IV rapids.
There are specific regulations to the area, including the requirement for all boaters to wear personal flotation devices and helmets. It is also recommended to have an experienced guide or to have previous whitewater rafting experience before attempting this river run. Additionally, there are restrictions on the number of boats allowed on the river per day to limit overcrowding and maintain the natural beauty of the area.
In summary, the Whitewater River Run in Wyoming is an exciting and challenging segment of the river with a class III-IV rating. It spans approximately 16 miles and is divided into several sections with specific rapids and obstacles. The ideal streamflow range for this river run is between 1,000 and 4,000 cfs, and there are specific regulations in place to ensure the safety of boaters and preserve the natural environment.
| Last Updated | 2026-05-03 |
| River Levels | 466 cfs (3.62 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 71% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Run Length | 20.0 Mi |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 06036905 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lone Star
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Upper Firehole
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Mallard Lake Outlet
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Mallard Lake SE
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OB2
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Mallard Lake E
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Begins Approximately At Kepler Cascades To The Confluence With The Madison River
The Headwaters To Ends Approximately At Kepler Cascades
The Headwaters To The Confluence With Falls River
The Junction Of The Firehole And Gibbon Rivers To The Western Yellowstone National Park Boundary
The Headwaters To The Southern Yellowstone National Park Boundary
Begins Above Blanding Hill And The Road Access To Virginia Cascades To The Confluence With Firehole River