Class 4/5 whitewater rafting adventures on California's Salmon River.

Cal Salmon River Overview

Northern California's Hidden Gem

The California Salmon River is a hidden gem in Northern California, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. The river is formed by winter snow and rain high up the Salmon-Trinity Alps in Northern California and is a tributary to the Klamath River. With an average of 80 inches of precipitation a year, the river produces huge runoff in the winter and spring months. The "Cal Salmon", as it's fondly known to boaters, typically offers favorable boatable flows through the spring months, typically fizzling out by mid June.

The Cal Salmon is known as one of the best boatable sections of river in the West.

Raft the class 4-5 Cal Salmon River in May and June.

Unrivaled Beauty

With its lush green beauty, this steep walled canyon with cold clear green water, offers exciting Class 4 and 5 rafting and kayaking. There are two sections of the Cal Salmon that are typically rafted and kayaked by experienced paddlers. The more difficult of the two is the Nordheimer section and the more "tame" is the Butler Ledge section. Neither of these two sections of the Cal Salmon are a walk in the park.

Whitewater Rafting & Kayaking on the Cal Salmon

The Nordheimer section of the Cal Salmon River puts in at Nordheimer Campground. This section of the river boasts Class 4 and 5 rapids with names like Bloomer Falls and Cascade. The two rapids on this section of river feared by most, Freight Train, and Last Chance.

Continue downstream and the Butler section of the Cal Salmon begins. This is a slightly easier section of river than upstream with rapids ranging from Class 3+-5. This section is not one to be taken lightly though. Make sure your guide is experienced and safety precautions are taken.

*River trips are not without inherent risks. Kokopelli River Guides cannot assume responsibility for injury to rafting / kayaking / rental participants or loss of personal property. You will be required to read and sign a waiver and release prior to your trip.