New York · Essex Co.

West Branch Ausable River

Essex Co. · 32 mi · Class I–III
Optimal: 150–800 CFS · USGS #04275500
380 avg
2,180CFS
3.74 ft gauge height
Flood
↓Falling slowly (-30 cfs/hr)(-70 in 3h)
⚡Flow data is live from USGS·Rapid classifications and CFS ranges need community verification·Know this river?
Avg flow: 380 cfsHist. median: 345 cfsUSGS #04275500
Adirondack Park · NY Trophy Trout Water · Catch-and-Release (Two-Mile and Flume sections)

The West Branch of the Ausable is the most famous trout river in the Adirondacks — 32 miles of cold, oxygen-rich water flowing past Mount Marcy and through Lake Placid down to Au Sable Forks. The river holds wild brown and rainbow trout in extraordinary densities, with the famous Two-Mile Catch-and-Release section near Wilmington producing fish over 20 inches. The Wilmington Notch and Flume sections wind through dramatic granite gorges below Whiteface Mountain. The river is the spiritual home of Adirondack fly fishing.

Outfitters
The Hungry Trout Resort
West Branch Ausable fly shop and lodging, Wilmington NY
10-Year Flow Patterns
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Data Quality

River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.

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