Gauge Description:

The "virtual gauge" used here is based upon two USGS gauges and the maximum penstock capacity. It should reflect the flow in the dewatered reach, but there are variables that could affect this.

This is a normally dewatered reach and flow needs to exceed the penstock capacity to provide good runnable flows.

800 to 1200 cfs should be an "ideal" for most folks

This reach has been run and is runnable at flows above the listed maximum, though at such flows it features exploding waves and large holes that need be avoided. Boaters considering a high water run should scout prior to running the section from the "Fingers" down through the slide sequence to get an accurate picture of the level of challenge involved.

Gauge Information

Name

Range

Difficulty

Updated

Level

Ontonagon River at Victoria Falls

virtual-6356

500 - 1600 cfs

I(II)

00h21m

~ 0 cfs (rc= -1.0 )

Likely too low; There could be random areas with enough concentrated flow for play. We need additional input. Add a comment or report.

Virtual gauge approximates possible flow in this reach, normally dewatered by penstock. Actual flow must be confirmed by on-site inspection.

Range	Water Level	Difficulty	Comment
0 - 500 cfs	extremely Low-barely Low	I(II)	Likely too low; There could be random areas with enough concentrated flow for play. We need additional input. Add a comment or report.
500 - 800 cfs	barely runnable-med runnable	I-II	Low, but boatable. Some areas will be grungy. We need additional input. Add a comment or report.
800 -1200 cfs	med runnable-a bit pushy runnable	II-III+	Moderate flow. May start to be 'pushy', especially for novice/intermediate boaters. We need additional input. Add a comment or report.
1200 -1600 cfs	a bit pushy runnable-high runnable	III+(IV)	High flows. Likely to be 'pushy' and features will build.
1600 -2000 cfs	somewhat High-somewhat High	III-IV	Very high flows. Experts only. Big and pushy. Swims will be EPIC.
2000 -99999 cfs	somewhat High-extremely High	IV-V	Monstrous flows for this reach. (Not necessarily rare, just huge!)

Report - Reports of Ontonagon, W.Br. B) Victoria Falls dam to Victoria Dam Rd. (5.3 miles) and related gauges

Reports give the public a chance to report on river conditions throughout the country as well as log the history of a river.

Reports

When	River/Gauge	Subject	Level	Reporter
> 10 years	Ontanagon [MI]	Ontonagon West Branch Below Victoria Falls	Dam Release	n/a
> 10 years	Ontonagon, W.Br. [MI]	Runnin' Vicki	1600 cfs	Rob Smage