Apple River
Jo Daviess Co. · 53 mi · Class I–II
2,390CFS/ 13.27 ft
Flood
↓Falling slowly (-30 cfs/hr)· -80 cfs in 3h
Optimal: 100–400 CFS · USGS #05418500
⚡Flow data is live from USGS·Rapid classifications and CFS ranges need community verification·Know this river?
53 mi
Length
Class I–II
Difficulty
100–400 cfs
Optimal
210 cfs
Avg Flow
190 cfs
Hist. Median
#05418500
USGS Gauge
Apple River Canyon State Park · Illinois Driftless Area

A hidden gem in the driftless region of northwest Illinois — the Apple River flows through the unglaciated hills of Jo Daviess County, offering Class I–II riffles through wooded bluffs and scenic ravines. Apple River Canyon State Park anchors the best paddling stretch. The surrounding landscape of steep-sided valleys and cold-water springs is unlike anything else in Illinois.

Trip sections
Apple River Canyon SP — 8 mi, Class I–II, canyon section, best stretch
Stockton to Canyon SP — 15 mi, upper river, gentle riffles
Below Canyon SP to Mississippi — 20 mi, wider valley, easy float
72-Hour Flow Forecast
NOAA NWPS
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10-Year Flow Patterns
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Data Quality

River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and trip sections may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level. If you spot an error, use the Improve This River button at the top of the page — your local knowledge is what makes this atlas accurate.