Lower Klamath River Rafting
The Lower Klamath River is an ideal multi-day N. California white water rafting trip for families and first timers. It is an easier trip than the South Fork American River, and in a more remote setting. However, with the addition of inflatable kayaks, there can be more than enough excitement for older children or more experienced river runners. On selected dates, kids can raft with larger discounts on our Family Specials. There are many fun whitewater rapids such as Kanaka Falls (or Rattlesnake), Devil's Toe Nail, the Trench, Dragon's Tooth, Osprey, and Sasquatch Squeeze. When rafting on the Lower Klamath River you will enjoy its large sandy beaches for camping and play and its warm waters. One of the highlights of the trip is the side hike through the rain forest setting of Ukonom Creek. For those who complete the ¾ mile trek, there are twin 20' waterfalls cascading into a large icy swimming hole.
Lower Klamath River Rafting - 2-4 day trips:
Trips are run on the 18-38 miles below Happy Camp, but there are many miles both upstream and downstream that allow for trips from 2-4 days or more. The Klamath River has 185 miles of navigable whitewater and is California's third longest river, and one of the few rivers that allows for continuous trips longer than 2 days. Its N. California location provides a great remote and "get-a-way from it all" river trip. On a multi-day trip, we provide all the meals from lunch on the first day to lunch on the last day.
Most of our Lower Klamath River rafting trips are run wilderness style, where we carry all the gear down the river, but car camping options are available, though most facilities are primitive. The Karuk Indian tribe inhabits much of the river typically traveled by rafters and kayaker's and the Karuk Traditional ceremonies are conducted at various locations and times on the sacred banks ("Inaam") of the Klamath River. Out of respect for the tribe, camping and stopping is occasionally prohibited.
Lower Klamath River Rafting - Wildlife & Fishing:
The Lower Klamath River is also known for its abundant wildlife and steelhead and salmon fishing. Among the more visible wild life are heron, osprey, eagles, black bear, deer, beaver, raccoons and the fur-bearing otters, fishers, and minks. The 20 miles of river above Happy Camp includes two Class 3 rapids, but its main charm is the fact that the river leaves the highway for more than 8 miles, and this section is a favorite haunt of the playful river otter. It is the legendary home to Sasquatch, and it's not hard to imagine "Big Foot" hidden in the majestic forests along the river.
The Klamath River flows west out of the Cascade Range and for much of its length passes through the Klamath National Forest. It traverses through a series of small mountain ranges (the Siskiyou's, Salmon, Marble Mountains, Scott Bar Mountains and the Trinity Alps), collectively known as the Klamath Mountains.
Tributary Whitewater Tours operates under permit from the Klamath National Forest and is an equal opportunity service provider.
Distances/Times for travel to Lower Klamath River rafting: 
1 ½ hrs N. of Willow Creek (88 mi) |
Other Options for Class 2-3 rafting trips:
- South Fork American River
- Trinity River
- East Carson River
- California Rafting, easiest and easy trips
