Cattaraugus Creek — Gowanda to Sunset Bay: Water Level Today — Can You Paddle It?
Cattaraugus Creek · Class I · New York
Current verdict
Good to paddle
Levels are within the typical runnable range for this section.
USGS gauge 04213500 · updated Jul 9, 8:15 AM UTC
7-day flow trend
Section facts
- Difficulty
- Class I
- Length
- 13 mi
- Float time
- ~5.5 hr
- Best months
- Apr, May, Jun, Oct, Nov
- Put-in
- Gowanda access ↗
- Take-out
- Sunset Bay / Lake Erie (Irving)
Reading USGS gauge 04213500 — CATTARAUGUS CREEK AT GOWANDA NY ↗ · runnable range is an estimate (see methodology)
FAQ
What water level is good for paddling Cattaraugus Creek — Gowanda to Sunset Bay?
This section is generally runnable at 150–3,000 cfs (a conservative estimate — see our methodology). Below that it gets too low and bony; well above the top of the range it becomes pushy and then dangerous. We compare the live USGS reading to that range to produce today's verdict.
How do I check Cattaraugus Creek levels?
We read USGS gauge 04213500 — the same public data USGS publishes — about every 30 minutes and compare it to the runnable range for this reach. You can also view the raw gauge yourself at waterdata.usgs.gov.
Is Cattaraugus Creek — Gowanda to Sunset Bay good for beginners?
This section is rated Class I. At good levels it suits confident beginners and up, but it can have riffles or small rapids. Scout anything you can't see, and stay off it at high water.
When is the best time to paddle Cattaraugus Creek here?
Typically Apr, May, Jun, Oct, Nov, when flows are most reliable for this section. Spring can run high after rain or snowmelt; late summer can drop too low. Always check today's gauge reading rather than assuming.
How long does it take to float Cattaraugus Creek — Gowanda to Sunset Bay?
This reach is about 13 miles, roughly 5.5 hours at a relaxed pace. Higher water is faster; low water and headwinds are slower. Add time for stops.