Water levels are a function primarily of rain and, in the early spring, snowmelt.
It is floatable on occasion in July and August but generally only on short notice following a very hard rain or if there is a sustained rainy period. At medium water levels the canyon portion is considered by most guidebooks to be suitable for novice rafters and intermediate-level canoeists. The river level is monitored electronically for flood warning and other purposes. The gauge readings are available on the internet at the USGS website. Above that is considered even better rafting but can be aggressive for some canoeists.