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Rapid CA Class IV

Marble Rapid (Gaping Maw)

Salmon - Butler Creek to Brannons Bar (CA)

Gauge Conditions
Runnable: 1,200.0 – 4,500.0 CFS
Description

A beautiful and long rapid, Marble Rapid (aka Gaping Maw) is also a must-run rapid. Soaring vertical walls line each side of the river, making a full portage impossible. Fortunately, the rapid is runnable at all flows and can be scouted from the top.

 

The classic line is down the right through the main part of the rapid. This route is rocky at lower flows, although high water in November 2024 appears to have cleaned up the right line a fair bit. The left line is overall sportier and requires more maneuvering and engagement with some fun reactionary currents off the left wall. A multitude of variations on lines can also be run, particularly at low to low-medium flows when there are numerous eddies and connecting currents.

 

The namesake Maw is no longer gaping. This was once a large hole in the center near the bottom. There's still a hole here at certain flows, but it is easily avoided and is no longer the beast it once was. This change in the rapid is a great reason the return to its original and more poetic name, Marble. Look for the distinct white marble boulder on river left in the pool before the entrance to the rapid.

Location
Type
Rapid
Difficulty
Class IV
Mile Marker
2.2 mi
Directions
View Full Run
Butler Creek to Brannons Bar
Salmon
III+(IV) 3.9 mi
Current Conditions
5-Day Forecast
Whitewater data from
American Whitewater