Rafting on the Klamath River is an incredible experience! Nestled in the far north of California, Siskiyou boasts one of the first Wild and Scenic Rivers. The thrilling rapids provide an exciting adventure for both beginners and experienced rafters. Recent dam removals have revitalized the river, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. With two distinct experience options and multiple guide services available, we’ve gathered some tips and trips to ensure a truly epic rafting adventure!
The Wild and Scenic Klamath
The Wild and Scenic Klamath River is the second largest river in California and features more than 180 miles of premier whitewater rafting. To see all of the rapids, you’ll have to endure a 2-to-3-day trip, camping along the way. Many guide services break up the adventure and offer a variety of trips depending on your groups experience and comfort level. Half Day, Full Day and Multi-Day trips are available. With the dams out on the Upper Klamath, there are many new sections to explore, and the maps and routes are still being developed.
(image: American Rivers: Klamath River)
Upper or Lower Klamath?
The Upper Klamath is known for its class IV rapids and this section is suited for intermediate to advanced rafters. The Upper Klamath provides an adrenaline-pumping adventure with steep, shallow rapids and sharp rocks, making it essential to have experience or go with a knowledgeable guide
The Lower Klamath section is more accessible for beginners and families. It offers moderate Class II-III rapids, making it a fun and splashy experience without the intense challenges of the Upper Klamath. The Lower Klamath is ideal for multi-day trips, allowing for a more relaxed pace with opportunities for swimming, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the river
Both sections provide unique and memorable rafting experiences, catering to different skill levels and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling adventure or a family-friendly outing, the Klamath River has something for everyone.
Guide Services
Offering multi-day trips on both the Upper and Lower Klamath River, you can experience action-packed Class IV rapids or more relaxed, chill vibes. The steep and technical whitewater, combined with an award-winning, ultra-comfortable ‘safari style’ backcountry camp (think glamping), showcases the most beautiful and exciting sections of the Upper Klamath River after the historic dam removals. This uniquely action-packed and comfortable down-river luxury camping adventure explores the best and most active sections of the newly freed Klamath River, blending the ‘old’ with the ‘new’ for one of the most unique trips in the United States.
Tributary offers trips on the Lower Klamath River, known for its fun, splashy sections, and the Upper Klamath River, a fast-paced, action-packed Class IV route through the biodiverse Siskiyou Mountains. This region features rugged mountains, rainforests, and abundant wildlife, including black bears, otters, deer, and numerous fish species. Nearly 188 miles of the Klamath River are designated as Wild and Scenic, ensuring its pristine condition. The Lower Klamath River offers multi-day rafting trips perfect for families, while the Upper Klamath River provides a thrilling one-day adventure.
The Tree of Heaven section of the Klamath River offers a bit of everything for a fun day on the river, including rapids, deep pools for swimming, relaxation, and wildlife viewing. It’s ideal for families with young children and beginners, but also provides challenges for adults and teenagers. Full-day trips include a deli-style lunch with fresh, organic ingredients, while half-day trips allow you to bring your own snacks and return to town for other activities. A two-day trip features two river runs, meals, and camping at the scenic Tree of Heaven campground.
The middle Klamath River is perfect for families with young children ages 3 and older, as well as first-time rafters. This section offers small to medium rapids, ensuring a fun-filled adventure with plenty of laughter and joy. Between the rapids, there’s time for a relaxing swim, a water fight, or simply soaking up the summer sunshine. Bird watchers can spot a variety of species, from finches to herons, and might even add new ones to their life list. Additionally, this stretch provides the opportunity to try maneuvering an inflatable kayak.
The Klamath River is Adventure Whitewater’s most popular trip, offering 50 miles of exhilarating whitewater through a spectacular canyon. The moderate Class III rapids provide plenty of excitement while being perfect for beginners and people of all ages and abilities. Adventure Whitewater uses all paddle-boats on the Klamath, ensuring everyone is involved and working as a team to navigate the turbulent stretches. However, the rapids aren’t the only highlight. The National Wild and Scenic Klamath River offers a true wilderness experience with abundant wildlife, including bears, river otters, bald eagles, ospreys, and deer. When not enjoying the scenery, participants can engage in water fights, team-building games, and swimming in the deep, calm pools between the rapids.
Safety Tips
Whitewater rafting on the Klamath River is thrilling but requires safety precautions. Always wear a life jacket and helmet and consider joining a guided trip if you’re inexperienced. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and dress appropriately. Choose river sections that match your skill level, with the Upper Klamath offering Class IV rapids and the Lower Klamath providing Class III rapids. Scout difficult rapids from the shore, keep your feet inside the raft, and follow your guide’s instructions. Be mindful of wildlife, maintaining a safe distance. By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and memorable adventure!
(images: Tributary Whitewater, Living Waters)