Whitewater River Flow & Safety Level Information
Education, Information, and Safety is our focus. Sharing ways for river access with residents and visiting river recreation enthusiasts.
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Below 2000 cfs (cubic feet per second)
Typical River Conditions
- Chili Bar Dam controls flows
- Clear Water
- Rapids rated up to Class III+
- Flows may increase quickly due to upstream hydroelectric operations
Group Responsibility
(each level builds on previous levels)
- Class III equipment: multi-chamber raft, Type III white water PFD's, full size paddles, throw rope, first aid & wrap kits
- Class III skills - boat in control, allow adequate space between groups in rapids, no loose lines or gear, standard hand signals
- Be trained in swift water safety / rescue, CPR, first aid
2000 - 4500 cfs
Typical River Conditions
- Current speed, wave size & hydraulics increase noticeably
- Cold snow melt water during winter and spring months
- Strainer hazards on some riverbanks
Group Responsibility
- Wet suits/dry suits recommended
- Guide has South Fork high flow experience
- Keep group compact for quick response to swimmers
- No single-boat trips
4500 - 8000 cfs
Typical River Conditions
- Large waves & holes can flip boats
- Water always extremely cold
- Hypothermia risk from long swims
- Strainer hazards along entire river
- Flow may increase rapidly, turn silty during and after storms
- Some rapids Class IV (above 6000 cfs)
Group Responsibility
- Wet suits/dry suits necessary
- Helmets recommended Advanced boating skills required
- Wear high flotation PFD's Know routes to avoid boat flips - "When in doubt, scout"
- Rig boat for flips
- Group fitness: Everyone must be able to paddle hard, recover from flips, swim to safety in strong current
Warning: Flows above 8,000 cfs demand the utmost respect and caution
8000 - 12,000 cfs
Typical River Conditions
- Winter storm flows and harsh weather
- Large floating debris
- Swims are a distinct possibility
Group Responsibility
- Trained safety boaters advised
- Swims may be life threatening due to strainers
- Scout all rapids
12,000 - 30,000 cfs
Typical River Conditions
- Difficult to avoid boat flipping waves & holes
Group Responsibility
- Teams of experts only with trained safety boaters
- Rescue & communication gear necessary
Above 30,000 cfs
Typical River Conditions
Group Responsibility
- Boating not recommended due to extreme hazards
- River subject to immediate closure