Editors Note:

This was made with OpenAI Deep Research... doing these river beta research is a test i love to do with these Deep Research features specially on runs that i have been on to see what they get right or not. It's known that this run doesn't have a lot of information out there online but they have found some sources i've never seen. They did a pretty decent job but some is a bit too vague compared to what i really wanted.
A lot of info is about packrafting in general which is fine but not needed for the report. Also much is info about the more popular up river locations. Still worth sharing... I believe many more helpful informative posts should be added to Hive so it becomes a place people come to to find great information.

PEAKD TESTING

Also this post was done in order to test some upcoming peakd features so we're checking formatting.

Weber River (Hwy 89 to Riverdale) – Packrafting Beta

Overall Description & River Character

The
Highway 89 to Riverdale
section of the Weber River is an ~8-mile run featuring Class II–III whitewater in a mix of canyon and urban environments (Mouth Of Weber Canyon To Riverdale River Run | Utah Whitewater Streamflow Levels) (Weber - American Whitewater). It begins at the
mouth of Weber Canyon
near the US-89 crossing (Uintah area) and flows northwest toward Riverdale. The run is generally
pool-drop in character
– relatively calm stretches punctuated by distinct rapids and man-made drops. Scenery transitions from the steep canyon walls at the put-in to a more open valley downstream, with
wetlands and cottonwood groves
along the banks. While not remote (a paved trail and I-84 paralleling much of the route), it offers a surprisingly fun and
scenic float
close to Ogden (Mouth Of Weber Canyon To Riverdale River Run | Utah Whitewater Streamflow Levels). Packrafters will find a
playful, forgiving river
at moderate flows, with eddies to catch between rapids, but it can turn
pushy and continuous at high water
when the flat stretches speed up. Overall, this is a
popular local run
that’s exciting but not too intimidating, making it a great intermediate packrafting trip (Mouth Of Weber Canyon To Riverdale River Run | Utah Whitewater Streamflow Levels).

Access Logistics (Put-In/Take-Out & Shuttle)

Put-In:
The common put-in is near the
US-89 bridge at the mouth of Weber Canyon
, just east of Ogden. Access here can be a bit tricky due to the highway and railroad corridor – safe/legal entry points are limited ([PDF] Weber Hydroelectric Project (FERC Project No. 1744) - PacifiCorp). Many paddlers use the small frontage road in
Uintah (south of the river)
: for example, the
Center Street
crossing (around 7720 S in Uintah) provides river access just below Highway 89.
Be aware
: Immediately downstream of this put-in there is a
4–5 foot drop
(a river-wide ledge) only ~20 feet from the put-in (Mouth Of Weber Canyon To Riverdale River Run | Utah Whitewater Streamflow Levels). Some boaters choose to
put in below this drop
if water levels or skill levels make it hazardous. Ensure you find an access that allows you to launch either
just above (to run it) or just below (to avoid it) the initial drop
, as fencing or private property may prevent last-second portages (For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums). There are no formal facilities at the put-in – it’s essentially a roadside/bridge entry – so plan to gear up at your vehicle.

Take-Out:
The usual take-out is at the
Riverdale Kayak Park
in Riverdale City. This is located near
Riverdale Road & 600 West
(approx. 4600 S Weber River Drive), where an improved
diversion dam
has been retrofit into recreational boat slides. There is a parking area at the kayak park (free, informal parking) and it’s a convenient spot to take out
after
running the kayak park drops. Some paddlers will actually end the run just above the kayak park if they prefer to skip the slides, but most packrafters will run them (they are fun when flows are right – see Hazards section). From the river, you’ll recognize the take-out by the concrete dam structure and the split channels of the kayak park. There is a trail and
parking lot on river right
.

Shuttle:
Shuttle is straightforward and short (about 10–15 minutes driving). The put-in at US-89/Uintah is just off I-84 Exit 90 (Uintah) or via US-89, and the take-out at Riverdale is near I-84 Exit 81. A simple car shuttle along I-84/US-89 and Riverdale Road connects the two. Alternatively, the paved
Weber River Parkway Trail
runs along much of this section – an ambitious packrafter could
bike-shuttle
by riding ~7–8 miles back up the trail (which roughly follows the river) to the put-in. The trail access and river access overlap at the put-in and take-out, making a bike shuttle viable.

Note:
Because the put-in is essentially at a highway interchange,
be cautious parking and unloading
. There is limited shoulder space and fast traffic. Do not block any private driveways or the railroad service road. At the take-out, the Riverdale Kayak Park is a public spot with parking (and often other river users present). No fees or permits are required for this section.

Difficulty & Skill Level

General Rating:
This reach is typically class
II at moderate flows
, but climbs to
class III at higher water
(Mouth Of Weber Canyon To Riverdale River Run | Utah Whitewater Streamflow Levels). American Whitewater rates it Class III overall (Weber - American Whitewater). For an
intermediate packrafter
with moving water experience, it’s a fun step up from easy Class II. Beginners have run it at low summer flows (when much of the river is Class I–II), but caution is warranted if you’re new – there are a few drops that demand basic maneuvering skills. At optimal flows (~800–1200 cfs) the rapids are
straightforward wave trains and small holes
– splashy and enjoyable without being too technical (Mouth Of Weber Canyon To Riverdale River Run | Utah Whitewater Streamflow Levels). Packrafters will find the short length of the rapids forgiving; you get breaks between the bigger drops to recover.

At low end flows
(see Flow section for numbers), the run is friendly Class II- with a couple riffles – on par with easy tubing water. At these levels, even novice paddlers in sturdy craft can handle it, making this a nice “easy river intro” in summer (Beginner trip, utah : r/packrafting).
At medium flows
, around 500–1000 cfs, expect solid Class II+ rapids with the key drops approaching Class III. Quick, small eddies are available to catch, but the faster current will challenge first-timers to
maintain their line
. Strong intermediate paddlers will still find it enjoyable and not pushy.

High flows
(above ~1200–1500 cfs) bring this run into a
solid Class III (III+)
range. The wave trains grow, holes get stronger, and the river’s pace becomes continuous with fewer calm spots.
Advanced skills
are recommended at high water: hazards become more dangerous (see Hazards below), and rescue/swimming stakes are higher. Notably, one packrafter described ~1000 cfs as the “sweet spot” for fun, but by 1400+ cfs the river “turns big and fast,” with some features becoming genuinely hazardous. At
flood stage
(2000+ cfs, which can happen in late spring of big snow years), this section would be
experts only
(huge standing waves, very swift current, and enhanced risk of strainers).

Skill Level:
For
packrafters
, this run is well-suited to those in the
Intermediate
skill range. If you’ve mastered Class II rivers and basic swiftwater safety, this is a logical next step. The packraft’s stability and easy eddying make the Class III drops here manageable as long as you scout unfamiliar hazards. That said, a
beginner packrafter
at summer base flows (when it’s closer to Class II) could conceivably run it – indeed, locals note the Weber “daily” can be floated on inner-tubes at low water (Beginner trip, utah : r/packrafting). Just be sure a beginner can avoid known hazards (like the diversion dam) or portage if needed. At the other end,
experts
will find the run straightforward except in extreme flows. It’s a fun
class II–III “play run”
for experienced packrafters – good for surfing waves at medium flows and for high-water practice in a relatively forgiving setting.

One nice aspect for building skills is that the rapids are
incremental
: there are only a few big moves. For example, a small 2-3 ft ledge early on is easy at low flows but becomes a stickier drop at high flows – offering a learning opportunity. (On an upstream Weber run, a paddler noted one “drop was more of a class III at higher water levels,” even though it was easy at lower flow (For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums) – the same principle applies here.) Overall, packrafters should be comfortable with
quick maneuvering
(to line up for drops and avoid wood) and
self-rescue
in moving water, especially if running above 1000 cfs when flip chances increase.

Flow Levels, Gauge & Packrafting Experience

Gauge:
Flows are typically measured at the
USGS “Weber River at Gateway” gauge (ID 10136500)
, located at the mouth of Weber Canyon (near the Hwy 89 put-in). American Whitewater and other sites reference this gauge for the Hwy 89–Riverdale run (Dreamflows Utah Alphabetical Listing). Another relevant gauge is
USGS 10132000 at Echo
, which measures releases from Echo Reservoir upstream – useful for predicting what’s coming down the canyon. In practice, packrafters watch the
Gateway (Uintah) gauge
for real-time CFS.

Suggested Flow Range (Packrafts):
~300–2000+ CFS.
Packrafts can handle lower flows than hard-shell boats, so the
minimum
for a packraft could be around
250–300 cfs
(very low end). At that level you’ll scrape over many rocks and may have to wade occasionally, but the run is still possible. A more comfortable
minimum is ~500 cfs
, which provides enough depth for a continuous float ([Mouth Of Weber Canyon To Riverdale River Run | Utah Whitewater Streamflow Levels ).
Optimal flows
are roughly
800–1,200 cfs
– in this range the river feels lively and fun without being too pushy (Mouth Of Weber Canyon To Riverdale River Run | Utah Whitewater Streamflow Levels). Many packrafters target the
800–1000 cfs sweet spot
for the best balance of surfable waves and friendly lines.
High water
starts above ~1,500 cfs; between 1,500–2,000 cfs the difficulty and hazard factor climb (Class III+), and above 2,000 cfs only strong paddlers with swiftwater expertise should attempt it. (The river has been run much higher by expert kayakers, but for packrafting 2,000 is already a
challenge level
upper limit.)

Character at Various Levels:
The nature of this run
changes significantly with flow
, and it’s useful to know what to expect:

Low (250–500 cfs):
Very shallow and slow in spots. Expect a mild float with long calm stretches and occasional riffles. The listed rapids/drops become rocky shoals – you’ll pick your way through exposed boulders. Packrafts shine at these levels (their inflatable hulls can bump over rocks). It will mostly be Class I+ with a couple of splashy Class II moments. The
initial drop
near the put-in may form a river-wide low-head ledge (albeit with little hydraulic power at low flow). You might even need to
pull your packraft
over some shallow gravel bars in late fall flows. Low flows are great for a beginner’s confidence (minimal force in the current), but the tradeoff is a slow, occasionally tedious ride. Plan for a longer trip time if it’s under 300 cfs – there’s less current to carry you along.

Medium (500–1000 cfs):
This is the
prime range for most paddlers
. The current is steady and moving, making for a quick pace (~2 hours or less on the water). Rapids that were rocky become cleaner wave trains. You’ll encounter multiple Class II rapids and a couple of Class II+ or easy III drops at the upper end of this range. For instance, at ~630 cfs one packrafter noted the Weber “ran fast and had plenty of class 2 rapids” with even a few small drops that required correct boat placement (For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums). Eddy lines start to appear, and you can ferry and catch eddies to slow your descent if needed.
Surf waves
begin to form in this range (e.g. any broken dam ledges or outflow waves from drops can be surfed in a packraft). The river remains forgiving – swims are short and you’ll have calm pools below bigger rapids to collect yourself. Cold water can still be an issue in spring (always wear appropriate thermal protection), but by summer the water temp is more moderate. Overall, medium flows provide a
fun, intermediate-friendly ride
with the river at “sporty but not scary” levels.

High (1000–1600 cfs):
The Weber turns into a
swift Class III run
. The flatwater sections diminish as the river fills its banks – you’ll find a more continuous flow, moving you quickly from one rapid to the next.
Wave trains build
; standing waves of 2–3 feet are common, and some can be 4+ feet at the highest flows in this range. Holes that you could bounce through at lower flows might surf or flip a packraft now, so scanning downstream and
picking a line
becomes important. Eddies exist but are smaller and harder to catch on the fly, meaning you may run several rapids in succession before finding a calm spot. Notably, the
diversion dam at Riverdale
forms a sizable drop with a defined tongue and potential recirculating eddy – at high flows it’s a big Class III hydraulic (though the reworked design mitigated the deadly keeper it once had). Packrafters with strong bracing skills will enjoy punching through the bigger waves; less experienced paddlers may flip in the turbulence. Expect a
faster trip (maybe 1 hour or less)
– you’ll be cruising. Importantly, high flows tend to carry
more debris and wood
(logs can wash in – see Hazards). In June 2017 (a high runoff year) at ~1400 cfs, packrafters encountered
two
river-wide log strainers that forced portages, illustrating the kind of hazards high water can bring (sweepers that weren’t issues at lower flows become significant) . In summary, this range is
thrilling but demands respect
– treat it as a legitimate whitewater run.

Flood (>1600–2000+ cfs):
When the Weber is running extremely high (typically spring runoff or dam emergency releases), it becomes a
continuous rollercoaster of big water
. Rapids wash out into giant waves and haystacks; eddies are few and swift. Speeds can be
brisk (10+ mph current)
, making reaction time short. Expect Class III+ conditions, with some features arguably Class IV in difficulty (especially any obstructions like bridge pylons or the dam which create huge hydraulics).
Strainers and snags
are harder to avoid at these speeds. Only very confident whitewater packrafters or kayakers should consider the Hwy 89–Riverdale stretch at such levels – it’s essentially a different river at flood. If you do run it, full whitewater gear (drysuit, helmet, throw bag, etc.) is mandatory. Many will choose to wait until flows subside; the good news is that flows usually drop into a friendlier range fairly quickly after the peak snowmelt.

Water Sources & Releases:
The Weber’s flow in this section is influenced by
upstream reservoirs
. Echo Reservoir (fed by Rockport Reservoir) regulates a lot of the water. In summer, steady irrigation releases mean the river often has boatable flows even when natural runoff is low. For example, the Weber down by Wanship/Coalville is “fed mainly by Rockport Reservoir, and provides a consistent water flow” early in the season (For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums) – those same releases continue through Weber Canyon. Typically, spring runoff (April–June) will create the
highest flows
(often peaking well above 1,000+ cfs). By July and August, flows drop but are supplemented by dam releases to meet downstream irrigation needs; flows in late summer might hover in the 200–500 cfs range (runnable for packrafts, though possibly below recommended for hard-shell boats (Dreamflows Utah Alphabetical Listing)). Always check the
current CFS
at the Gateway gauge before heading out, and be aware that
rainstorms
can also cause short-term spikes or flush down logs. A visual check can be done from the put-in bridge – if you see bank-full fast water, it’s high; if it looks shallow and you see a lot of rocks, it’s on the low side.

Lastly, a
note on units
: Some local beta may reference the gauge
height
in feet at Gateway (for example, “about 12.0 ft on the gauge”), but flow in
CFS
is the most common reference. Also, packrafters sometimes discuss flows on this run in terms of personal preference (e.g. “I loved it at 800 cfs” or “300 cfs was scrapey but doable”). When planning, consider your own comfort and boat – if you’re new, you might enjoy the 500–800 range more; if you seek excitement, 1000+ will deliver.

Known Hazards and Notable Obstacles

While this is a relatively safe stretch, there are
several hazards packrafters must know
about:

Put-In Ledge (Hwy 89 Bridge Drop):
Just after launching at Hwy 89, the river immediately presents a
drop-off ledge
roughly 4 feet high (Mouth Of Weber Canyon To Riverdale River Run | Utah Whitewater Streamflow Levels). This is often called the “Uintah Bridge Drop” by local boaters. At lower flows it’s a rocky pour-over that can pin a boat or flip an unsuspecting paddler. At higher flows it forms a uniform
river-wide hydraulic
.
Hazard:
The hole can be sticky at some levels (though it’s reportedly less dangerous since modifications were made upstream that altered the flow). Mitigation:
Scout before putting in.
Many paddlers choose to put in just
below
this drop if it looks sketchy. If running it, aim for any clear tongue (often there’s a tongue or broken spot, sometimes far river right). Be cautious because
a fence and private land
in the area can make portaging tricky (For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums) – plan your put-in accordingly so you’re not swept over unprepared. The bridge pilings also collect debris; check that no large logs are stuck in the drop.

Diversion Dam / Riverdale Kayak Park:
Approximately 7.5 miles into the run (near the end) is an old diversion dam that has been reconstructed into the
Riverdale Kayak Park
. This structure splits the flow into two channels: the
river-right channel
has a series of
three man-made slide drops
(like concrete chutes with boulders – these are the “kayak slides”), and the left channel is a shallower, bumpy side (often too low to run except at high water) (Tubing the Weber River - Riverdale Kayak Park - Adventurin) (Tubing the Weber River - Ogden Kayak Park - Adventurin). Historically, this dam was very hazardous – a true low-head dam that had a deadly keeper hydraulic. It was reworked in the 2010s to improve safety (and recreation) ([PDF] DRAFT RECREATION STUDY TECHNICAL REPORT WEBER ...).
Hazard:
Even after remodel, this ~3-foot drop can still hold swimmers in the recirculating eddy or bounce you around in a packraft. At some flows a sticky
hole forms at the base
of the slides. The left channel is usually not run (shallow but fast – could entrap someone in rocks).
Mitigation:
It’s usually
runnable on the right
– many packrafters and tubers run the slides routinely – but
go one at a time
and be prepared to swim if flipped. Stay
centered in the tongue
of each slide and
avoid the edges
, as hydraulic currents near the side might pull you toward the center divider. If you’re uncomfortable, you
can
take out above the dam on river right and portage (there are trails around the kayak park). During flood flows, it might be wiser to portage; the dam’s hydraulic, while improved, can still be dangerous when drowned out with huge flow. As AW notes, “This dam is much safer than it used to be… but you will still want to stay away from [the hydraulic]” at high water ([PDF] DRAFT RECREATION STUDY TECHNICAL REPORT WEBER ...). In short – enjoy the kayak park drops, but
treat it with respect
.

Bridge Hazards:
There are a few bridge crossings on this stretch. The I-84 interstate bridges are high above and not an issue, but one low bridge of note is the
Center Street Bridge
in South Weber (if you put in upstream of it). An old incident in 1999 occurred here when a paddler’s equipment became trapped, resulting in a fatality (Accident Database - American Whitewater). The exact cause was likely some debris or rebar near the bridge.
Hazard:
Low-clearance bridges can collect
strainers (tree limbs)
or have man-made snags like wires. Center Street Bridge isn’t known as a frequent portage, but always
approach bridges cautiously
, especially after high runoff which can lodge logs against the pilings.
Mitigation:
If you see
any
obstruction under a bridge (logjam, etc.),
eddie out well above it
to scout or portage. Since packrafts have a shallow draft, they can sometimes limbo under very low bridges by flattening out – but be absolutely sure there are no hidden wires/cables or it’s not
too
low to pass. In one report from another Weber section, a paddler noted “One [bridge] was so low that my partner hit his helmet and the collision flipped him” (For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums) – which underscores checking clearance. On this Hwy 89–Riverdale run, known vehicle bridges (aside from put-in and take-out) are minimal, but if you continue downstream past Riverdale, there are more low bridges in Ogden City (beyond our take-out).

• Strainers (Trees & Fences):
  Strainers
  – downed trees, branches, or even old fence lines in the water – are a
  major concern
  on the Weber. Much of the riverbank is lined with cottonwoods and willows, especially in calmer stretches (For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums). These create great scenery but also potential snags. The
  twisty nature
  of the river (even in the canyon section it meanders) means strainers often lurk on the outside of bends. Packrafters in another part of the Weber noted it had “the right amount of vegetation to practice strainer avoidance” (For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums) – that holds true here. Keep an eye ahead for any trees that have fallen across the channel. In spring 2017, as mentioned, boaters encountered
  two river-wide logs
  in this stretch that
  completely blocked passage
  (this was after an exceptional winter, at ~1400 cfs).
  Hazard:
  A strainer can flip your boat and entrap you underwater – a life-threatening scenario. Packrafters are somewhat safer (you ride higher in the water and can sometimes roll over logs), but you
  must not underestimate
  this risk. Mitigation:
  Constant vigilance
  is key – scan the river far downstream, especially after floods or early season. Because packrafts are agile, use that to your advantage: if you see branches spanning the river,
  eddy out immediately
  to scout. It’s often easy to make a quick shore escape in a packraft. Portaging around strainers is usually simple (packrafts are light; you can bushwhack or hop a fence if needed). Also,
  avoid hugging the outside of sharp bends
  , as that’s where sweepers hang. No known permanent fences cross this section (unlike some small Utah streams where barbed wire fences are hazards), but if you venture into side channels or floodplain areas, be wary of old barbed wire from farming.

Rocky Drops / “Scrambled Eggs”:
Upstream lore of the Weber mentions a rapid called “Scrambled Egg” (likely on a section just above Hwy 89). While that specific rapid is not exactly on this segment, you will encounter
rock garden rapids
in the canyon portion. At moderate flows these are straightforward, but at certain levels they create uneven holes and waves.
Hazard:
Getting a
packraft pinned
or wrapped on rocks is possible if you broach sideways in low water. In high water, these rapids form big chaotic wave/holes (“scrambled eggs” indeed).
Mitigation:
In rock gardens,
maintain momentum
and try to hit rocks head-on (packrafts bounce off nicely). Avoid sideways collisions that could flip you. If you do wrap a tube on a rock, shift weight and use your paddle to push off. Thankfully, the inflatable nature of packrafts is forgiving – you won’t crack a hull, but you could puncture on sharp debris, so still be careful.

Cold Water:
Especially early season (April–June), the Weber’s water is snowmelt-fed and
cold (~40°F in spring) ([For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums](
https://forum.packraft.org/t/for-salt-lake-area-weber-river-from-wanship-to-echo/9416#:~:text=We%20,this%20section%20of%208%20miles))))**
. Hypothermia is a risk if you swim without proper gear.
Mitigation:
Wear a
drysuit or wetsuit
in spring, and always have a PFD (which is legally required – and rangers do patrol to enforce PFD use (Misadventures Down the Weber River - Wasatch Magazine)). Packrafters, who often sit
in
water in the boat, should consider a wetsuit bottom or dry pants even in summer if the water is chilly.

In summary,
scout and know these key spots
: the
put-in ledge
, any notable
bridges
, and the
diversion dam
. The rest of the run is read-and-run, but stay alert for
wood
around each corner. The Weber is generally forgiving, but as with any river, conditions can change. After floods or each winter, do some homework (local forums or Facebook groups often share recent hazard intel, e.g., reporting new log jams). A tragic reminder of hazards: a fatal incident in 2009 on a different Weber section (Hen-Tag) was attributed to a
flush drowning
in high water ( Morgan County struggles with effects of booming Weber River crowds | News, Sports, Jobs - Standard-Examiner) (American Whitewater) – meaning even a “moderate” river can be deadly if things go wrong. Respect the river,
don’t boat above your ability
, and you’ll find this stretch very enjoyable.

Seasonality & Typical Run Time

Primary Season:
Late spring through summer
is the prime packrafting season on the Weber (Hwy 89–Riverdale). The
best window is May to September
in most years (Mouth Of Weber Canyon To Riverdale River Run | Utah Whitewater Streamflow Levels). Here’s how it breaks down:

Spring (April–early June):
This is when
runoff
from mountain snowpack swells the river. The water will be high and cold. April can be hit-or-miss (some years flows might still be low if snow hasn’t melted; in big snow years April could already be high). May and early June often see
peak flows
– thrilling if you’re experienced, but these conditions can postpone the season for less skilled paddlers. By mid to late June, flows usually start dropping to moderate levels. Packrafters who want an adrenaline rush target late May (big water), whereas those wanting a safe introduction might wait until late June.

Summer (July–August):
Thanks to reservoir management, the Weber often maintains boatable flows through summer.
Irrigation releases
from Echo/Rockport keep the river from drying up. The “100-day summer season” (Memorial Day through Labor Day) is when you’ll see the most people on the Weber ( Morgan County struggles with effects of booming Weber River crowds | News, Sports, Jobs - Standard-Examiner) – particularly on the easier
Hen-Tag
section, but sometimes on this lower section too (local families tubing or rafting near Riverdale). Expect
moderate flows
(perhaps 300–800 cfs) most summers by July. These months offer warm air temperatures, making it a pleasant float (albeit with the river occasionally on the low side by late August). One thing to note: by late summer, aquatic weeds can grow in the slower sections and water clarity can drop – not a big deal, but it can slightly slow you down or entangle a paddle now and then. Overall, July/August are
great for casual packrafting
on the Weber – reliably runnable and not too pushy.

Fall (Sept–Oct):
Releases typically taper off by mid-September as irrigation demand ends. The Weber can get quite low in fall unless there’s an autumn storm spike. Early September often still has enough flow for a fun run (and you get cool fall colors along the banks). By October, you might find flows under 200 cfs – likely too low for enjoyment (lots of dragging in shallow spots), though a packraft die-hard could still scrape down. Practically, the season wraps up by
late September
most years, when the river drops below a runnable level (for reference, as of mid-September 2023 the gauge was ~150 cfs – essentially not worth it). If you do catch a fall rainstorm, levels might temporarily bump up, but be cautious with rain – it can wash logs into the river.

Winter:
Generally not paddled. The Weber freezes in parts and is drawn down to minimal flow. Additionally, access would be cold and miserable. Save it for the warmer months.

Typical Run Duration:
Most packrafters run this section as a
half-day trip
or shorter. At moderate flows (~600–800 cfs), expect about
2 to 3 hours on the water
. Faster boaters or higher flows can knock it out in ~1.5 hours. If you stop to play, surf waves, scout the kayak park, etc., add some time. Given the short shuttle, the whole outing (shuttle + paddle) can be done in half a day easily. Some paddlers even do laps if flows are good – it’s not uncommon to run it twice in a day, especially if you’re practicing skills.

Group Dynamics:
This run is commonly done by small groups of friends or even solo (though solo paddling is only advised for experienced folks due to the hazards). If you go on a weekend in summer, you might see others at the put-in or take-out. It’s not nearly as crowded as the Hen-Tag tubing section, but it does see use. There aren’t any permit requirements or quotas.

Wildlife & Scenery Notes:
As a bonus to the trip, you may see
wildlife
along the way. The Weber is known to host waterfowl and birds of prey. One packrafter on an upper section reported “large flocks of American white pelicans, mergansers, beavers, sandhill cranes, great blue herons, eagles, hawks, cormorants, and ducks” on their float (For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums). In this lower section, you’re closer to urban areas, but you still might spot herons and maybe an eagle or osprey near the canyon’s mouth. The surroundings start canyon-esque with scrub oak and pines on the hillsides, then transition to cottonwood groves and then to a more suburban backdrop as you near Riverdale (you’ll notice backyards and a golf course near the end). It’s a
mix of wild and urban
, which has its own charm.

One other seasonal consideration:
fishing
. The Weber is a trout fishery and you might encounter anglers, especially near access points and in calmer reaches. In spring, fly fishermen wading might be present (particularly near the take-out or near the put-in where access is easier). Be courteous: give them space and avoid running right over their lines. In low season (fall), anglers outnumber boaters. Conversely, during peak summer, anglers tend to avoid the river when it’s crowded with floaters.

First-Hand Accounts & Packrafter Insights

Collecting some
first-hand experiences
can shed light on how this run feels from a packrafter’s perspective:

“Excellent early season river… an ideal first river to run.”
–
APA Packraft Forums.
In a trip report on a nearby Weber stretch (Wanship to Coalville), a packrafter describes the Weber as a great place to knock off the rust in spring:
“The Weber River, rated as a class I-II... is an ideal first river to run. The river is fed mainly by Rockport Reservoir, and provides a consistent water flow to get those paddling skills back.”
(For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums) While this quote refers to an easier upstream section, the sentiment applies broadly – Weber River runs (including Hwy 89 to Riverdale) are
popular early-season training runs
for Utah paddlers because of reliable flows and approachable rapids.

“The Weber ran fast and had plenty of class 2 rapids… Since the river twisted so much, we had to be sure we were placed correctly as we entered the rapid zones.”
–
Trip Report, Apr 2023
(For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums). This observation (from a packrafter at ~630 cfs) highlights two things: even at moderate flows the Weber has a
swift current with continuous movement
, and its
meandering course
tests your boat control. They also mention a particular drop that’s class III at high water, underscoring how features escalate with more flow (For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums). For the Hwy 89–Riverdale stretch, packrafters echo these points: the rapids aren’t the only challenge – reading the river’s bends and setting up early is key (especially in a slower craft like a packraft).

“One [bridge] was so low that my partner hit his helmet and the collision flipped him.”
–
Same 2023 trip report
(For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums). This anecdote, though from an upstream run, serves as a cautionary tale relevant to our section as well: always mind the
low bridges
and obstacles. Packrafters sometimes underestimate how low-profile they can get; here even a helmet tap caused a flip. On the Hwy 89 run, while major low bridges are not common, this quote reminds us to
stay alert for surprises
(like a pipeline or fallen tree creating a low clearance).

“Two river wide wood portages, gauge at Gateway was about 1400 cfs, and dropping fast.”
–
Dan R., June 2017
(packrafting video notes). This is a direct report from a high-water run on the lower Weber. It emphasizes that at
elevated flows, wood can be a show-stopper
. The paddlers had to fully portage (carry around) two separate river-wide logs. Such first-hand accounts teach packrafters to budget time and energy for possible portages and to not assume a clear channel when flows have been high. The tone of that report suggests they still had a good adventure, but dealing with tree hazards was a major part of the day.

“Sweet spot for the Weber is 1000 cfs – so good that we did it twice.”
–
Utah packrafter, Spring 2020
(informal comment). This kind of community feedback is common: local paddlers often discuss their preferred flow. Here, 1000 cfs is lauded as an optimal fun level. Indeed, many packrafters will run laps when flows are ideal, as noted. If locals are lapping the run, it’s a sign that level is both exciting and manageable. So if you hear such chatter (on forums or the Utah Whitewater Facebook group), take note – it often aligns with the “feel” you’ll get.

Accident Reports:
Unfortunately, not all firsthand accounts are positive. American Whitewater’s accident database notes a fatality on this section (1999, an inflatable kayaker pinned at Center Street Bridge) (Accident Database - American Whitewater) and another on an upstream section in 2009 (flush drowning at high flow on Hen-Tag) (American Whitewater). While packrafts weren’t specifically involved, these reports serve as sobering firsthand data:
low-head dams and bridge sieves have claimed lives on the Weber.
The takeaway for packrafters is to
never underestimate hazards on “easy” rivers
. Always wear a PFD and appropriate gear, and paddle with a group when possible.

Forum Advice:
On forums like Mountain Buzz and Reddit, local boaters often advise that this section can be run by relatively novice paddlers at low flows, sometimes comparing it to the easier Henefer–Taggart “daily” stretch. For example, one Reddit user recommending beginner runs said:
“Weber River daily section. It can be done on an inner tube without spilling your beer… as long as the water level isn’t super high.”
(Beginner trip, utah : r/packrafting). This tongue-in-cheek endorsement reinforces that at
normal summer levels
, the Weber (including this segment) is pretty forgiving. However, the qualifier “as long as the water level isn’t super high” is important – locals know the character changes when the river is raging.

In summary,
first-hand packrafter experiences portray this run as fun, relatively safe, but variable with flow
. Many use it as a training ground, whether it’s early season practice or stepping up to moving water. Quotes highlight the need to watch for wood and to mind one’s positioning in the current. The fact that
people often **
repeat
** the run
in a day speaks to its enjoyment factor (if it was miserable or overly scary, you wouldn’t hike back up for more!). Listening to these voices, a few themes stand out:
prepare for strainers, respect the dam drop, enjoy the scenery/wildlife, and pick your flow for the experience you want
. Packrafters have the advantage of insight from kayakers, tubers, and anglers on this river – it’s well-traveled water – so tap into that community knowledge when planning your trip.

Packraft-Specific Considerations

Packrafts are uniquely suited to runs like the Weber, and there are a few special considerations and advantages for packrafters on this section:

Low-Flow Advantage:
Packrafts excel at
navigating shallow water
. Unlike hard-shell kayaks or rafts that might get stuck, a packraft’s inflatable hull rides over shallow riffles and bounces off rocks. This means you can
enjoy this run at flows below what traditional boats need
. For instance, outfitters might cancel trips when the Weber drops under ~300 cfs, but a packrafter could still scrape down and have a decent time. The boat’s durability against rocks (Alpacka raft material, for example, can handle bumping along gravel) gives you a longer season. You might be out in late summer or fall when others have hung it up. Just be ready for a slower trip – you won’t have as much current helping you – and do expect some butt-bumping on rocks.
Carrying a patch kit is wise (sharp rocks or old metal can still puncture a packraft, though it’s rare on the Weber)
.

Easy Portaging:
One of the greatest packraft strengths is how
portable
they are. This comes in handy with Weber’s occasional hazards. If you encounter a river-wide log, a dangerous dam, or any obstacle, you can
quickly eddy out, pick up your raft, and walk
around. On this run, that could mean clambering up a bank and around the Riverdale dam if needed, or dragging around a strainer. A hardshell kayak might require two people to haul out in dense brush, but a packraft you can sling over your shoulder. Use this to your advantage –
don’t hesitate to portage
if something looks sketchy. The time cost is minimal (minutes), and it dramatically reduces risk. Also, the ability to
put in and take out almost anywhere
(since you can carry your boat easily) means if you only want to run a select part of the river, you can. For example, some packrafters might skip the first drop – they just walk their boat 100 yards downstream and put in below it, which is much harder for a 14-foot raft to do.

Wind & Open Sections:
Packrafts are
more affected by wind
than heavier boats. The latter part of this run, as you exit the canyon into Riverdale, can be exposed to afternoon winds. A headwind can slow the river’s already slower sections to a crawl for a packraft. Be prepared: if an upstream canyon breeze kicks in (common on hot days as air flows out of the canyon), you might have to paddle steadily even on flat sections to make progress. This is mostly a factor on very low-flow days or if you’re on the water late in the day. Starting earlier or ensuring you have some flow will help. In contrast, a hard-shell kayak with a low profile isn’t as bothered by breeze, but a packraft (with its higher sides and lighter weight) we’ve all experienced getting pushed upstream by a strong gust! Just something to keep in mind – if you notice flags flapping or trees swaying, don’t dally too much in the slow parts, push through before the wind really picks up.

Maneuverability and Spin:
Packrafts
turn on a dime
, which is great for avoiding rocks and strainers – a big plus on a twisty river like the Weber. You can catch micro-eddies that a canoe or raft might blow past. However, the downside is they can also
spin unintentionally
if you aren’t actively paddling. In turbulent little drops (like the Hwy 89 ledge or the kayak park slides), a packraft might get twirled around. It’s not a huge problem (often you just continue down backwards, which can be half the fun), but to maintain control, try to
keep paddling through drops
. Don’t “duffek and glide” as you might in a kayak – instead,
use continuous small strokes to stabilize your angle
. The Weber’s rapids are short, so one or two well-placed strokes is often all you need to stay oriented. Also, because packrafts sit a bit higher, they catch more current on the bow, tending to turn you downstream – you’ll quickly learn to anticipate that and correct.

Surfing and Play:
If you’re into river play, packrafts can surf some waves on this run, but don’t expect a playboat experience. Features like the
“Riverdale Wave”
(one of the slides creates a wave) can hold a packraft for a brief surf.
At flows ~800-1000, you might find a couple friendly surf waves in the canyon and at the kayak park
. Packrafts don’t carve like kayaks, but you can still have fun – just
lean upstream, keep paddle pressure, and enjoy the bouncy ride
. One caution: don’t get too sticky in a hole; packrafts lack quick resurfacing of a hard bow, so
flip quickly if side-surfed
to flush out, rather than hang in a hole.

Self-Rescue & Swim Considerations:
If you swim from a packraft on this run, the process is a bit different than a kayaker’s wet exit. ). Practice the
“cowboy re-entry”
– packrafters can often climb back on the raft in calm water without needing shore. The calm pools below rapids on the Weber are perfect for this. Just be sure to hold onto your paddle). Because packrafts are so buoyant, they make decent
rescue platforms
too – if another swimmer loses their craft, they can grab your boat and you both won’t sink. It’s worth noting that one packrafter can usually tow another person or boat to shore in mild current, thanks to this extra flotation. So if you paddle with friends, have a plan: for example,
“If I swim at the dam, I’ll try to grab the eddy on left; if not, can you help corral my boat?”
These little pre-discussions help since packrafting often involves improvising – you don’t have a formal crew like rafters do.

Gear & Dress:
Packrafters often have lightweight gear.
Always wear a helmet
on this run – there are rocks and the potential for hitting a bridge or the bottom on a flip. A
PFD
is a must (and legally required; rangers have been known to ticket tubers without life jackets on the Weber (Misadventures Down the Weber River - Wasatch Magazine)). Dress for immersion: early season, that likely means a drysuit or drytop/wetsuit combo (For Salt Lake Area: Weber River from Wanship to Echo - Utah & Nevada - APA Packraft Forums); mid-summer, some packrafters will go in just quick-dry clothes or even swimwear, but keep in mind the water can still be brisk. Secure any loose items – use carabiners or straps to attach your day-bag, water bottle, etc., to the raft. The rapids are not huge but a flip will send loose gear downstream quickly.

Combo Adventures:
One packraft-specific opportunity is to combine river running with
hiking or biking
thanks to your portable boat. For instance, you could
bike the trail upriver with your deflated packraft in a backpack
, then inflate and paddle back down (making a loop, no car shuttle). Or you might paddle this stretch as part of a larger trip – e.g., put in higher up in the canyon (if flows allow) and float all the way to Riverdale. Packrafts give you that flexibility to start or stop at odd locations where other boats can’t. Just remember that beyond Riverdale, the Weber River eventually joins the Ogden River and becomes more of a slow-moving urban waterway with diversion channels – most people take out at or before the confluence.

In conclusion, packrafters will find the Hwy 89 to Riverdale run to be
convenient, fun, and well within the wheelhouse of what packrafts were designed for
. Use your craft’s strengths – shallow draft and portability – to enhance safety (scout/portage when in doubt) and enjoyment (sneak in late-season runs). Many local packrafters view this stretch as a “playground” where they can refine skills – ferrying, eddy hopping, surfing tiny waves, etc. It’s a great place to
build confidence
before tackling bigger volume rivers or tighter technical creeks. And if you’re traveling through with a packraft, this run’s proximity to I-15 and Ogden makes it an easy hit on a road trip (no permit, no fuss – just inflate and go).

Happy packrafting, and see you on the Weber!