Ellis River
About
From Pinkham Notch through Jackson, the Ellis River drops Class II-III through White Mountain National Forest, averaging 280 CFS with an optimal range of 200–800 CFS on gauge 01064300. The upper mountain run delivers the technical water, while the lower stretch from Jackson to Glen eases to Class I-II as it passes through the covered bridge corridor. Fifteen miles total through Coos County, with Jackson Ski Touring Foundation offering guided trips on the more accessible lower sections. The Pinkham Notch put-in sits high in the White Mountains, and the gradient shows — this is snowmelt and rainfall dependent, running best during spring freshet and after storm events when flows push toward the upper end of the optimal range.
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.