The Upper Klamath (and Beyond)

Upper Klamath River
The Upper Klamath starts in Oregon and tumbles its way into Copco Lake, with exciting rapids along the way. It's runnable throughout the year because flows are regulated by releases from the John C. Boyle Reservoir in Oregon.

GORP Feature: Raft the Klamath River from Oregon to California

More on the Upper Klamath River

Salmon River
Here's a favorite for experts. Many short, quick rapids run from the forks of the Salmon on downstream to where it pours into the Klamath. The scenery is outstanding with high canyon walls bordering the river.

South Fork of the Eel River
A good put-in is at Richardson Grove State Park, from where you can float 40 miles through redwoods to Weott. It's a good run that takes three to four days. Warning: Portage around the low-level bridge before Benbow Lake.

North Fork of the Yuba River
The preferred stretch of water is the lower portion from Goodyear's Bar to the Route 20 Bridge, but portage around the ten-foot drop-off near Route 49. Warning: Do not try the four miles from Downieville to Goodyear's Bar; they are unrunnable.

North Fork of the American River
This is a very popular run from Colfax to the North Fork Dam (18 miles) but is dangerous at a few spots. It is advisable to scout rapids before attempting to run. Warning: Do not try the Giant Gap Run below the dam—it's suicide.

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Main Tuolumne River
Here's a real heart-thumper. From Lumsden Campground to Ward Ferry Bridge, it's 18 miles of wild beauty. Until flows drop in midsummer, this stretch of water is almost continuous rapids.

Contact: Bureau of Land Management, Folsom Office, (916) 985-4474.

Merced River
The best water here is from Briceburg to Bagby, 15 miles of Class III and IV rapids. When you portage around the 20-foot waterfall, look out for poison oak. The rapids ease greatly beyond the waterfall.

More on the Merced River

Contact: Bureau of Land Management, Folsom Office, (916) 985-4474.

Upper Kern River
The prized section on this river is from Kernville to Lake Isabella, a half-day, five-mile run for advanced paddlers only. Very scenic. Avoid the river above the bridge, which is a very tough run.