The magnificent California Salmon and Scott Rivers are natural wild and scenic river tributaries of the mighty Klamath, which tumble swiftly out of the Marble Mountains and the Salmon-Trinity Alps Wilderness areas.
There are numerous Class IV and substantial Class V rapids on these runs. On two and three-day trips, the first day is usually a ‘warm-up’ run on the lower section of the Cal. Salmon, with plenty of Class 4 and 4+ action at Butler Creek Ledge, Double Hole and the Gaping Maw. Often this run is extended to include the Ikes on the Klamath River, which can be huge during spring run-off. Big Ike is likened to Crystal rapid in the Grand Canyon and can be a powerful Class 5 rapid at flows above 12,000 c.f.s. The more difficult run on the Cal. Salmon starts soon after the put-in at Nordheimer with four class 4 and 4+ drops in less than two miles. After a brief break, you then have to negotiate the tough passages of Cascade, Achilles Heel, Whirling Dervish, Last Chance and Freight Train.
The Scott can be run as a third day in combination with the Cal. Salmon, or for suitably qualified paddlers as a two-day Class 5 trip with the upper section of the Cal. Salmon. As the Scott is located on the drier east slopes of the Salmon-Trinity Alps, the Scott has a shorter season than the neighboring Cal. Salmon. This trip involves a drive between the two rivers of approximately 1.25 hours to tackle the Scott on the second day, ending up near Scott Bar on Highway 96. Rapids are almost continuous, with sharp, boulder-choked drops and include Boulder Creek Falls, Canyon Creek, White House, Tompkins Creek and Schuler Gulch.
There are plenty of unique rapids on both these rivers, and the superb beauty and grace is accentuated by the rugged carved granite, the deep woods of the Klamath National Forest, and the incredible waterfalls that tumble into the canyons.
Wildlife is plentiful, but easily hidden in this rugged terrain, although geese and eagles are often seen. The Salmon and Scott are two of California’s top spring rivers and despite the driving distance to this remote area, “close to nowhere”, many avid river runners gladly make the trek to northwestern California. They don’t come away disappointed.
Trip Details
Duration
2-3 Days
Location
Cal Salmon or Scott Rivers
Season
April to Early July
Trip Type
Paddle & Oar
Nearest City
Somes Bar, CA
Physical Condition Required
Excellent
Destination(s)
California, United States
Rated Classes
Class IV-V
Distance Traveled
8-26 Miles
Rates
$318.00 - $468.00per personCurrency Converter (Rates shown are in US Dollars. Rates and terms are subject to change.)
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Notes
These rivers are recommended for experienced clients who are in good physical condition, and capable swimmers. Charter transportation is available from Tributary Whitewater Tours from the Sacramento area, or airport pick-up can be arranged from Redding. Call for details.
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