Mission Statement:(NWS) provides weather, hydrologic, and climate forecasts and warnings for the United States, its territories, adjacent waters and ocean areas, for the protection of life and property and the enhancement of the national economy. NWS data and products form a national information database and infrastructure which can be used by other governmental agencies, the private sector, the public, and the global community.
The Gold Country Weather site is located on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Alta, California.There are four distinct seasons at this 3,700 foot elevation, with snowy winters, beautiful fall colors, verdant springs and warm summers. The Alta, California weather station is broadcasting live, real time weather data as seen on the top right of this page. The equipment we use is manufactured by Davis, and the model is the Vantage Pro. All the outdoor sensors and weather instrumentation updates to the on site computer in real time as it is happening. All of this data is then uploaded to the Internet in real time, where it updates every 2.5 seconds for you to see.
Because Alta, CA. is above the snow level in winter, and in order to achieve close to 100% accuracy in our precipitation measurements, our weather station is fitted with a special heater that quickly melts any snow that falls into the rain gauge. In this way we can accurately measure yearly, monthly, weekly, & daily rainfall totals that you can rely on.
We strive to be your one stop weather source. The satellite and radar maps are of the highest quality and accuracy in the weather industry. Whether you live in the Gold Country or anywhere in the United States, we have all the tools you need at your disposal.
Giant Gap is a total classic, both for its whitewater, which is intense at times and relaxing at other times, and for its dramatic canyon scenery. The view of Giant Gap from your trailhead is awe inspiring, and once you boat into the Gap, there is no exit except by river, there is no hiking out of this run due to the steep canyon walls.. This is an experts only raft/kayak run that involves a two mile hike to put-in, three big Class V rapids, and many more Class IV and IV+ rapids. Two or three rapids remain class V even at low water. You will find crystal clear water, fantastic rapids, and breathtaking scenery through the three mile Giant Gap. Click on the Giant Gap photo for a vastly enlarged view of this amazing feature of nature.
