River Class / Skill Level

• Class: III–IV whitewater with technical rapids and narrow canyon sections.

• Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced boaters comfortable with remote wilderness conditions.

Season / Permits / Weather

• Boating Season: March through May depending on snowmelt and rainfall.

• Permit Required: Yes — permits issued by the Bureau of Land Management.

• Best Time to Run: April during peak spring runoff.

• Weather: Cool spring weather with potential storms and fluctuating river levels.

Water Levels / River Character

• Typical Flow Range: ~1,000–10,000 cfs depending on runoff.

• Low Water: Technical maneuvering and slower travel.

• Optimal Flows: 3,000–6,000 cfs provides exciting rapids and steady current.

• High Water: Powerful hydraulics and faster current in narrow canyon sections.

• Special Considerations: Extremely remote desert river requiring careful trip planning.

Put-In / Take-Out

• Standard Put-In: Rome Launch Site.

• Standard Take-Out: Birch Creek Ranch.

• Trip Length: Approximately 65 miles, typically run in 4–5 days.