Hazard Warning: Hazard information may be user-submitted and unverified. Conditions change frequently. Always scout rapids and obstacles yourself.
Rapid CA Class IV+

Lower Third

Big Creek - Fish Camp to South Fork Merced (CA)

Monitor this Rapid
Gauge Conditions
NF Willow Creek near Bass Lake CA Upstream Primary
Runnable: ? – ? CFS

Approximate - nearest available gauge. Use as general reference only.

Data from American Whitewater & USGS
Photo
Lower Third
Photo courtesy of American Whitewater
Description
Lower Third is a technical and consequential Class IV+ rapid featuring a steep, boulder-choked descent with multiple tight moves between large, potentially retentive holes. Paddlers must navigate a complex center line that requires precise boat placement to avoid powerful lateral waves and avoid getting pushed into undercut rocks on either side. The rapid demands expert-level skills, with minimal margin for error and the potential for serious consequence if the wrong line is chosen.
Location
Type
Rapid
Difficulty
Class IV+
Mile Marker
0.0 mi
Directions
Navigate
View Full Run
Fish Camp to South Fork Merced
Big Creek
II-V 4.3 mi
Current Conditions
5-Day Forecast
Whitewater data from
American Whitewater