Smoky Hill River near Mentor

Is this flow normal for October 19?

Today's 156 cfs is 49% above the median for this date — which counts as normal water here.

The median flow on this date is 105 cfs, across 101 years of USGS record at this gauge. Whether that is runnable depends on the stretch — this is context, not a recommendation.

Why this score

• Wind — 14 mph — elevated wind-26
• Gusts — Gusting to 26 mph — 12 mph over sustained-3

We don't have launch notes for this one

This page is built from the USGS gauge at this location, and uses available public readings. We haven't verified where to put in, what the hazards are, or whether this stretch is legal or sensible to paddle. We'd rather say that than invent it. The links below are where to find out.

We also don't have a verified safe-flow range here, so the Paddle Score reflects weather only. Judge the flow number against local knowledge, not against our score.

Do your own homework

We show you live conditions. For local knowledge — where to put in, what the hazards are, whether it's worth the drive — here's where paddlers actually talk about this water. We don't vet these sources; check the dates and judge for yourself.

• Paddler discussion on Reddit ↗

  Trip reports and local warnings, straight from the source

• Search American Whitewater ↗

  Rapid classifications and gauge-linked run descriptions

• Satellite view and access roads ↗

  Check parking, put-ins, and what the banks actually look like

• Video from this water ↗

  The fastest way to see the character of a run before you drive

• USGS gauge 06866500 ↗

  Full hydrograph, historical flows, and station metadata

Nearby water

• Gypsum Creek near Gypsum10 mi
• Mulberry Creek near Salina11 mi
• Smoky Hill River at Lindsborg11 mi
• Smoky Hill River at New Cambria12 mi
• Solomon River at Niles19 mi
• Smoky Hill River near Langley22 mi