Yuba River
About
Class III-IV drops through the Sierra Nevada foothills make the Yuba a year-round technical run when most California rivers go dry. The South Fork from Edwards Crossing to Purdon Crossing covers six miles of consistent Class III-IV water, while the North Fork between Goodyears Bar and Downieville steps up to Class IV over 12 miles. The Middle Fork from Milton to the confluence runs 10 miles of Class III-IV through more remote canyon. At 1,600 CFS average with an optimal range of 800–3,000, the Yuba holds water longer into summer than most Sierra drainages. The South Fork gained state park protection in 2003, and portions fall under BLM Wild & Scenic study designation. USGS gauge 11421000 tracks flows across 65 miles of main stem and tributaries through Sierra and Nevada counties. The gradient and snowpack timing make this a go-to run for paddlers chasing technical water when the high country is still locked in ice.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.