One of the best Class 4 whitewater rivers for the summer and relatively uncrowded due to its location, but well worth the trip. The Upper Klamath has consistent flows from the J.C. Boyle Power House located over the border in Oregon and it flows through a rugged canyon cut through volcanic rock. The area was inhabited by the Indians and some historic remains from old mines and ranches can be visited. The wild life is abundant with blue herons, bald and golden eagles, ospreys, Canada Geese, deer and the caves along route are home to the protected Townsend's Big Eared Bats.
The river warms up with nearly six miles of Class 3 rapids before tackling the big stuff. The gradient changes and the next 6 miles offers some wild whitewater with the Class 4+ Caldera and Hells Corner being the highlights. The rapids are long and the water big. On a two-day trip, you’ll camp at the Oregon/California border. Guests can try their hand at catching wild trout, swim in the usually warm waters or just relax discussing the days run after setting up camp. Then sip wine and cold beer while your guides prepare the evening meal. Appetizers of vegetables, dip, cheese and crackers are served. Barbecued chicken, tri-tip steak or Dutch oven lasagna follows. There is also a baked potato or rice, a sumptuous mixed salad and garlic bread. Make sure you leave room for a Dutch-oven baked desert or cheesecake with whipped cream.
You awaken next morning to the aroma of coffee brewing and breakfast sizzling, before the ride back upstream to the old Frain Ranch site above the best whitewater section. On the second day you’ll run this six-mile stretch again and then continue downstream from the campsite to the take-out at Copco Lake, an 11-mile run. Below the state line, the canyon opens up and the river mellows, allowing you to try your hand at guiding the rafts, bodysurfing or trying an inflatable kayak.
Trip Details
Duration
1-2 Days
Location
Upper Klamath River
Season
May to October
Trip Type
Paddle
Nearest City
Yreka, CA
Physical Condition Required
Good
Destination(s)
California, United States
Rated Classes
IV+
Distance Traveled
11-23 Miles
Rates
$148.00 - $308.00per personCurrency Converter (Rates shown are in US Dollars. Rates and terms are subject to change.)
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Notes
Airport pick-up is usually available from Redding (frequent flights with United) or from Weed (private or charter flights). Interstate 5 has been much improved with most sections allowing 65 miles per hour. The meeting place in Weed is 11 miles north of Mt. Shasta City. Within a short distance there is plentiful camping, accommodations, hot springs and other recreation opportunities within the Klamath and Shasta National Forests, Lake Shasta and Lassen National Park. To the north, approximately 65 miles, Ashland also offers excellent accommodations and the opportunity for some culture at its famed Shakespeare Festival which runs all summer. The Northern California area is also a great place to camp-out, hike and fish.
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