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

Low-Head Dam

San Gabriel - Georgetown to Jonah (10 miles) (TX)

Gauge Conditions
Runnable: ? – ? CFS

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

Photo
Low-Head Dam
Photo courtesy of American Whitewater
Description
The Low-Head Dam on the San Gabriel River presents a critical hazard for paddlers, creating a dangerous hydraulic recirculation zone that can trap and potentially drown boats and swimmers. This man-made structure forms a uniform, powerful backwash that creates a uniform, inescapable reverse current, making it essentially unrunnable and requiring a mandatory portage on river right or left. Extreme caution is advised, as low-head dams are considered among the most lethal obstacles in whitewater environments, with no safe route through the structure.
Location
Type
Rapid
Difficulty
Class N/A
Mile Marker
0.7 mi
Directions
View Full Run
Georgetown to Jonah (10 miles)
San Gabriel
II+ 10.0 mi
Current Conditions
5-Day Forecast
Whitewater data from
American Whitewater