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

Low Head Dam

Alameda Creek - Sunol to Niles Junction near Fremont (CA)

Gauge Conditions
Runnable: 400.0 – 1,000.0 CFS
CDEC Flow Data California
ALAMEDA CREEK ALN Primary
Elevation: 86 ft
Photo
Low Head Dam
Photo courtesy of American Whitewater
Description
The Low Head Dam on Alameda Creek presents a hazardous river feature with a pronounced hydraulic that can create a dangerous recirculating effect, especially at certain water levels. Paddlers should carefully scout the chute on river right and be prepared to portage or take an alternate line to avoid the potential entrapment zone created by the dam's uniform downstream flow. Exercise extreme caution and consider this section only with advanced whitewater skills and local knowledge of the specific water conditions.
Location
Type
Rapid
Difficulty
Class II
Mile Marker
4.2 mi
Directions
View Full Run
Sunol to Niles Junction near Fremont
Alameda Creek
III 5.0 mi
Current Conditions
5-Day Forecast
Whitewater data from
American Whitewater