|
Additional
Klamath River Information |
|
|
|
|
|
| |
Klamath River Home Page: Click
Here
Why Choose Destination Wilderness For Your Klamath Trip?
Destination Wilderness offers the most complete
Lower Klamath river whitewater rafting trips available. Consider all that we
provide on this great river:
Your
Choice:
 It
is Your Trip Not Ours. We have been running Klamath river whitewater
rafting trips for years and years and believe that the best trip is the trip
you desire. We provide a foundation of safety and seamless logistics, and have
a wealth of knowledge about the Klamath. From there we create the trip you
want, adjusting our style to your wants and needs rather than asking you to fit
into our agenda. Among many things can include providing for specific meal
requests, stopping for extended side canyon hikes, camping near good fishing
holes, and so on.
A
Variety of Trip Options. With Destination Wilderness you can choose between
travelling in a paddle raft, riding in an oar boat, and tackling the rapids in
an inflatable kayak. We offer three and four day trips on the Klamath. And, we
can customize trips to meet personal wants and needs.
 Your Safety:
At Least Two Boats and Two
Guides Per Trip. On all of Klamath river whitewater rafting trips we always
have at least two licensed guides on the water. We believe that the safest
possible trip starts with appropriate staffing and that just one guide on the
water is not as effective as two or more. Therefore, we always have at least
two boats and two guides on each trip.
Full Safety Orientation and Gear. Before each
Klamath trip we provide a thorough safety and instructional presentation. For
example, as part of our full safety gear ensemble each client that paddles in
the inflatable kayaks are provided with helmets. We also provide wetsuits and
paddle jackets free of charge when needed.
Experienced Crews. Each and every year Destination
Wilderness is among the leaders in terms of the number of multi-day trip guests
who raft the Klamath. We run trips almost every week in the heart of the
summer. As such, we have a crew that knows well the nuances of Klamath river
rafting trips.
Your Comfort:
Smaller Group
Size. Typically, our Klamath trips are limited to 16 guests and five guides
and are often smaller than that. We have the ability to take larger groups but
we generally prefer to keep group sizes reasonable in order to maximize your
wilderness experience.
Personable Guest to Guide Ratio. We run Klamath river
whitewater rafting trips with one guide for every three to four guests, a ratio
that we feel enhances each guest's experience in terms of safety, comfort, and
good company!
Your
Convenience:
Personal Camping Gear Available. We have available to rent
for a small fee sleeping bags, tents, and sleeping pads. If you prefer to not
lug your stuff then let us make your preparation for the trip easier!
Help with Pre and Post Trip
Transportation and Lodging. We will gladly share our comprehensive
knowledge of the Klamath river area and assist you with any transportation and
lodging needs you have.
Your
Satisfaction:
We are confident you will find your experience with Destination
Wilderness to be exceptionally rewarding!
Return to
Top
River Difficulty
The Klamath is a class III
river. Each day on the river we run playful and moderately challenging rapids
that are ideal for first time rafters, experienced river runners, families with
children of all ages, and others. Certain days are more rapid-filled than
others, and there are many long and peaceful calms with classic wilderness
scenery.
River Difficulty Scale: Class I is flat water and Class VI is
unrunnably difficult. Class II has current with small waves and some
obstacles.Class III rapids are fun and thrilling, ideal for first-time and
experienced rafters. Class IV whitewater is great for experienced rafters and
reasonable for fit first-timers who have had some warm-up in class III. Class V
is very difficult and for experienced river rafters.
Return to Top
 Trip
Outline
Meeting Time:
Our Lower Klamath River Rafting Journeys
rendezvous is at 10:00 am in Happy Camp, California, a tiny hamlet in the
northwest corner of the state. We launch near Happy Camp, and float in a
generally southern direction towards Willow Creek, California. These three and
four- day trips include great mountain scenery, fun and exciting class II-III
rapids, and numerous wildlife viewing opportunities.
Trip Conclusion: The trip
generally ends in the mid-afternoon of the last day.
Note: Charter
trips are available on the Klamath! If your family or friends would prefer a
private trip just for your group, we would be happy to provide it! We are also
able to adjust the trip length and itinerary depending on each charter group's
needs and desires.
Daily Itinerary
Day One
Your
trip leader and river shuttle vehicle will meet you at the Indian Creek River
Access on the first day of your Klamath river whitewater rafting trip. There he
or she will distribute waterproof "dry" bags, answer any last minute questions,
and help assure that your car is parked in the secure parking area. Following
this introduction you will pack your camp clothes, sleeping bag, etc., into the
dry bag (be sure to keep any items you want during the day out of this dry bag,
as we have separate "day" dry bags). Your dry bags will then be rigged into the
gear boats and you will participate in a thorough instructional and safety
presentation. Those wishing to run the rapids in inflatable kayaks are given a
thorough instructional presentation as well. Then, its on the river!
The river starts off with a nice long calm section that allows you to
gain comfort and confidence before tackling the first big rapids. The rapids,
through which you can paddle in rafts or inflatable kayaks or just hold on as a
passenger in an oar raft, grow in size as we move down river. We stop mid-day
for an expansive deli lunch that tastes all the better on the shore of the
river. By the end of the day we have run some fun whitewater, including the
powerful Rattlesnake and playful Mixmaster rapids, as well as drifted on mild
stretches of the beautiful Klamath. We make camp on a sandy beach or forest
meadow, where you can enjoy a happy hour snack and unwind as the guides make
the first of many delicious dinners. On this and each subsequent night the
campfire lights the night sky and the sound of the river lulls us to sleep.
 Subsequent Days (The number of days varies according to your
trip length):
Each day on the Klamath river whitewater rafting trip follows
a similar routine, although no two days are alike. Breakfast, a multi-course
affair with hot cowboy coffee or campfire cocoa, is served as the sun creeps
into the canyon. After breaking camp and loading the rafts we run rapids, drift
through quiet calms, relax in the warmth of the Klamath canyon, watch deer,
bear, eagle or other animals as they cruise through the wilderness, and on and
on. We also stop to explore side canyons, including Ukonom Falls, and tackle
the biggest rapid on the river, Dragon's Tooth, a maze of boulders and bubbling
froth. Lunch is set up each day around noon, with more than enough delicious
food to energize you for the afternoon's adventure. In the late afternoon we
again set up camp in another beautiful and secluded wild place. The early
evening hours provide time to fish, hike, read a book, enjoy happy hour snacks
and beverages, or take a nap. Dinner, in all of its glory, is prepared and
served each evening with style and flair. You will eat to your stomach's
content meals that have been labeled as the finest outdoor cuisine
imaginable.
Final
Day:
After breakfast and breaking camp we float the final stretch of
river, enjoy lunch on the banks of the mighty Klamath, and reach take-out in
the early afternoon. The guides quickly de-rig the rafts and load them on the
shuttle vehicle. Following a celebration toast and salute to a great trip we
drive back to Happy Camp. Or, if you are traveling south after the trip, you
may also choose to have your vehicle shuttled to the take-out point. The drive
back to Happy Camp takes approximately 45 minutes.
Return to
Top
Getting
to the Klamath/Happy Camp Area
Our Lower Klamath River Journeys rendezvous is in Happy
Camp, California, a tiny hamlet on Highway 96 in the northwest corner of the
state. We meet at and launch from the Indian Creek river access, in Happy Camp,
and float in a generally southern direction towards Willow Creek, We meet at
10:00 a.m. on the first day of the trip.
By Air:
Medford, Oregon is
the closest town to Happy Camp with commercial air service. Horizon, United,
America West airlines all fly into Medford. From Medford you can rent a car and
drive approximately 2.5 hours to the rendezvous by following the below
directions. Please let us know if we can help with your pre and post-trip
travel arrangements.
By Car:
From the south: Take I-5 north to the Montague exit, the third
exit in Yreka. Go under the freeway and turn right at the stop sign on to Hwy
263. At the Hwy 96 (Klamath River Road) junction turn left towards Happy Camp.
After passing through Happy Camp,turn into the Indian Creek river access. You
can also reach Happy Camp by taking Hwy. 96 north and east from Hwy. 299 at
Willow Creek. Hwy 299 connects Redding and Eureka, California.
From the north: Take the
Hwy. 96 exit, approximately 14 miles south of the Oregon border. Follow Hwy. 96
to Happy Camp as described above.
Where To
Stay
We recommend lodging at the Klamath Inn at 530-493-2860 or
the Klamath River Resort Inn at 530-493-2735. Both of these motels are in the
town of Happy Camp.
Return to Top
 Natural History
The Lower Klamath is one of the
longest alpine rivers in the United States. Its warm water, fun rapids,
relatively easy access, excellent camping, rich history, and exceptional
scenery combine to create one of the best western rivers for a multi-day
whitewater journey. In fact, these characteristics inspired Congress to protect
the Klamath as a Wild and Scenic river, a status it has held for nearly twenty
years.
The Klamath runs through and around several mountain ranges,
including the coastal Siskiyous, the Marble Mountains, and the Trinity Alps. In
addition to being an exceptionally beautiful backdrop for the Klamath River
Journey, these ranges also help stop coastal weather patterns from reaching the
Klamath. Surprisingly, given the Klamath’s proximity to the coast, the
river canyon is generally hot and dry, with weather that is ideal for summer
river trips. In addition, these mountains serve as an enormous watershed and
drainage for the Klamath, resulting in strong river flows that render the river
runnable virtually all year long. By the time the Klamath reaches the ocean,
its flows can match those of the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon.
Human history on the Klamath dates back to a time when Modoc Indians
called the Klamath River area (chinook for “swiftness”) home. The
Modoc lived comfortably along the shores of the Klamath as the fish running
upstream from the ocean provided a plentiful food supply. In particular, the
Karuk tribe has lived for generations along the banks of the upper reaches of
the Klamath. In fact, Karuk means “upriver people.” Today, the Karuk
continue traditional activities such as basket making and ceremonial rituals. A
few times a year private Karuk ceremonies result in certain sections of the
Klamath being closed to outsiders.
The gold rush that would forever
change the face of California forever changed as well the face of the Klamath.
Beginning in the 1850’s, dams, dredges, and other mining operations
impacted the Klamath, as miners took whatever steps necessary to unearth the
sparkling treasure. The sedimentation and blocking of the river from mining
efforts severely reduced the fish population, and the Modoc begin to leave the
area. Other human impacts continued to change the Klamath. Upstream dams and
downstream logging took their toll on the Klamath fisheries and wildlife
throughout the 1900’s. However, in 1980, the Klamath was added to the Wild
and Scenic Rivers System, eliminating the possibility of further degradation to
the river. As a result of this legislation, the Lower Klamath river is once
again a healthy and wildlife-rich waterway.
A variety of wildlife
call the Klamath canyon home, including bear, deer, otter, osprey, and blue
heron. There is one creature that we have yet to spot, but is believed to call
this region home: Bigfoot. Legend has it that this behemoth animal has been
spotted several times in this area over the last 100 or so years. While we
probably won’t see this creature, almost every Klamath trip provides
several glimpses of the other wildlife of this region. The spectacular, quiet
nature of the Klamath canyon is well reflected with Ukonom Creek, a side-canyon
stream that we visit on each trip. Ukonom winds several miles from the high
alpine country to its confluence with the Klamath. On our Ukonom side hike we
walk and wade up the creek 3/4 of a mile from the river to the base of Ukonom
Falls, twin 30’ cascades that fall into an idyllic crystal clear pool. A
highlight of every trip, this optional hike requires participants to scramble
over boulders, wade and swim in cool water, and hike along a narrow, sinewy
trail. The rewards of reaching the falls and exploring the creek are well worth
the effort.
When you add the history, wildlife, and geology to the
fact that the Klamath waters are among the most enjoyable in the west, you are
left with a river that is satisfying to all. Nearby Highway 96 provides easy
access to the river, yet remains largely unnoticed throughout the entire trip
as rafters sit deep in the Klamath canyon. Our three and four-day trips take in
the best of this river wonderland. The rapids, scenery, wilderness, quiet, and
camaraderie of this river journey provide an exceptional getaway. We recommend
the Klamath for your next outdoor adventure!
Return to Top
 Additional Information
Experience Required
No previous experience is necessary for the Klamath River Journey. In
fact, this trip has again and again proven to be just right for those on their
first wilderness rafting adventure. Our minimum age is 5, except for high water
trips, in which case the minimum age could be raised. The maximum age is up to
you! Your guides will gladly help with any aspect of our trip that is new for
you, whether that means setting up a new tent or learning to paddle.
Participant Fitness And
Activity Levels
Destination Wilderness trips are created with fun,
curious, and nature-loving adventurers in mind. Our Klamath River Journey is
ideal for those with a zest for the outdoors, moderate adventures, and
self-determined activity levels. While you should be fit and in good health for
this trip, you need not be a honed athlete. First-timers, families, friends,
experienced rafters, and independent and mature travelers are welcome and
thrive on our Klamath River Journeys.
Weather
The
Klamath is a coastal and mountain river with generally phenomenal weather from
May through October. Temperatures in May, September and October are usually in
the high 70's to high 80's during the day and high 40's to low 60's at night.
June, July and August days often reach into the 90's and nights are in the 50's
and 60's. Of course, rain can occur any time and weather in the canyon can be
unpredictable. Always bring rain gear and a tent. Wetsuits are required for all
spring and fall trips. These can be rented from Destination Wilderness.
Equipment
Destination Wilderness provides lifejackets, waterproof bags, camp chairs and
eating utensils and all the specialized river gear you need. Inflatable kayaks
are provided on every Klamath trip. Sleeping pads, sleeping bags and tents can
be rented from us. Be sure to let us know in advance if you need any rental
gear. A complete list of what you should bring will be included in your
confirmation packet.
Camp Shelter
Shelter, in the form of camp tarps, is provided on every trip. We will set up a
camp tarp, under which all can sit and eat or just relax in the case of rain or
really hot weather. In addition, each guest or group of guests should provide
their own tent(s). Destination Wilderness has tents available to rent for a
small fee. We camp along the river in pristine wilderness, usually on expansive
sandy beaches or isolated forest glades. All personal and camping gear is
carried down river with us on oar-powered gear boats. We proudly practice
minimum-impact camping and carry out all trash.
Bathrooms and Showers
Destination Wilderness is proud to provide solar showers on all of our
Klamath trips. These are set up in convenient and private locations away from
the river to prevent polluting the river with soaps. We also carry a portable
metal box chemical toilet (similar to motorhome toilets) that is set up in a
private and scenic spot away from the heart of the camping area. While not in
camp and floating the river we can also stop to use the toilet. A system that
will be explained by your guides allows for all campers to know when the camp
shower and toilet is in use.
Fishing
Fishing
on the Klamath is generally good. We will gladly carry on the gear rafts any
personal fishing gear you want to bring. California requires you to have a
fishing license if you intend to fish during your visit. Please purchase your
license in Happy Camp before the rendezvous time. Depending on the season,
anglers may land trout, salmon and steelhead. It may be necessary in many cases
to release the catch, depending on the season.
 Meals and Beverages
We serve gourmet meals prepared with
fresh ingredients. We also provide a variety of beverages with each meal. Each
afternoon we set up happy hour snacks and beverages. We are also happy to
prepare certain foods that you may want or need (including birthday or
anniversary cakes). Please let us know if you have special dietary concerns,
and we will plan and cook accordingly.
Gratuities
It is
common to tip wilderness guides on adventure trips. It is not expected, but
always appreciated. If you are happy with your trip please let us and your
guide(s) know. Thanks!
Itinerary Changes
While we do everything possible to follow the itineraries in this packet
we may be forced to adjust trips due to reasons beyond our control. Therefore,
these itineraries are subject to change.
References
Many
of our past trip members have offered to speak with folks who are considering
our trips. We know we could blow our own horn until we are blue in the face
about the great time we feel you would have on our trips. So, we invite you to
contact us for a list of clients who have participated on Destination
Wilderness trips and we'll let them do the talking!
Destination Wilderness
Guides
The pride of our outfit, our guides bring a wealth of talent
and experience to each trip we run. Destination Wilderness guides (and they are
our guides not subcontracted outfitters) have years and years of experience
leading trips in the U.S. and abroad. Each is licensed in first-aid and CPR.
Furthermore, they create an environment that fosters camaraderie and positive
experiences. Simply put, they care about what it is that YOU want from YOUR
TRIP and do everything possible to make that happen! We are confident that you
will find your guides to be one of the highlights of the adventure.
Return to Top |
Klamath
River Whitewater Rafting Additional Information
