Little Potlatch River
Headwaters to Potlatch River
| Difficulty | IV-V |
| Length | 6.8 mi |
| Avg Gradient | 160 fpm |
| Gauge | Potlatch River Bel Little Potlatch Cr Nr Spalding |
| Flow Rate as of 54 minutes | 114 cfsbelow recommended |
| Reach Info Last Updated | March 20, 2011 |
River Description
The Little Potlatch River is one of the best runs in the Moscow area for those who love long days on steep creeks. The river has a lot to offer: beautiful scenery, several waterfalls, Class I-V rapids, at least one portage around a sieve, basalt slot canyons and spires, granite gorges, and a remote feel.
It takes high flows to paddle the Little P, and the level suggestions are just that, suggestions. Depending on snow and rain conditions the Little P could be run when the potlatch gage is significantly lower or higher than recommended. Your best chance of paddling the Little P is in January, February, or March.
The Little Potlatch flows through private property but is legal to float under Idaho law, which has been confirmed by local law officers. There is the very high likelihood of fences anywhere in the run, especially near the end. Be careful, and respect private property.
Brookfield Power has recently proposed a 230 foot tall dam that would flood almost the entire whitewater run, including the spectacular basalt slot canyon and spires.
River Features
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Trip Reports
Log in to add a reportLittle Potlatch Canyon is a total treat if you can catch it with water. We eeked out a run at a low but runnable level and enjoyed the whitewater of the upper granitic canyon and then the scenery of the basalt canyon. While small and hard to catch, Little Potlatch was and remains my favorite run in the Moscow area.