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2-Day Upper Klamath Rafting Trip

Guided

Duration: 2 days

Features

Free Cancellation
Beginner Friendly
Kid Friendly
Shuttle Included
Instant Book
Locally Owned
$725 Person

Description

Whitewater Rafting Upper Klamath River - Overnight Rafting Trip

We are thrilled to offer this unforgettable multi-day rafting adventure on the newly restored Upper Klamath River! With the historic removal of the Klamath dams, we can now venture further downstream and experience stretches of river that have been inaccessible for over a century. While the logistics no longer allow us to run Hell’s Corner as a single-day trip, we’ve created an incredible 2- or 3-day river expedition that takes you through thrilling whitewater, breathtaking landscapes, and a region rich with history.

This trip requires smaller, lighter boats (maximum four paddlers per raft) to navigate the dynamic waters of the reborn river. Our seasonal camps are fully set up, offering a comfortable and scenic riverside retreat with appetizers, relaxation, and plenty of activities after a full day on the water.

Upper Klamath Multi-Day Rafting Itinerary

Day 1:
We launch from Spring Island, heading downriver through exhilarating rapids before stopping for lunch at Frain Ranch. From there, it’s a scenic float to our overnight riverside camp, where you’ll have time to unwind, explore, and soak in the natural beauty.
Day 2:
We get an early start to tackle the legendary Hell’s Corner section, a thrilling stretch of Class IV whitewater. As we leave this iconic run behind, we’ll enter the former Copco Reservoir footprint—now called Kikacéki Valley. Here, you’ll witness firsthand how the river is healing itself, with new channels forming and ecosystems regenerating year after year. We’ll enjoy our final riverside lunch in this historic area before heading into the grand finale…

The trip culminates with an epic float through Kikacéki Canyon, a jaw-dropping stretch of Class IV+ rapids surrounded by rugged canyon walls and newly uncovered landscapes. Our take-out is just beyond the canyon at Fall Creek Access, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through the reborn Klamath River.

A River Rich in History & Wildlife

The Upper Klamath River is steeped in history, from the Indigenous peoples who have called this region home for thousands of years to the early pioneers who traveled the Oregon/California wagon and stagecoach trail. As we float, you’ll see historic log structures, relics from old settlements, and even the ghost town of Beswick, once a thriving hot spring resort. The river corridor is also home to bald eagles, wild geese, deer, and an incredible diversity of wildlife.

With towering multi-colored cliffs, hidden riverside caves, and lush groves of pine, cedar, and juniper, this 14-mile stretch of the Klamath is truly the “West’s Best” whitewater adventure. Join us between March and October for an unforgettable journey through one of the most dynamic and exciting river landscapes in the country!

Duration

2 days, 1 night | 14 miles
Pickup: 8:00 AM Day 1
Dropoff: 5:30 PM Day 2

Location / Where to Meet

Ages & Requirements

Minimum Age: 12
All must be in reasonable good health, able to paddle

What's Included

  • A Certified Guide in every raft
  • All necessary river equipment
  • Spring and Fall - wetsuits and cool weather gear
  • All transportation to and from pick up location
  • Extra water
  • Dry bags for personal valuables while on the raft (We can not guarantee that these are 100% waterproof).
  • Meals, kitchen wares, and non-alcoholic drinks
  • Outdoor bathroom
  • Tents, sleeping pads, linens
  • Warm and friendly conversation, stories and history of the area, flora, fauna, and wildlife identification!

Not Included

  1. Personal clothing
  2. Gratuity
  3. Pre/post trip lodging in Ashland

What to Bring / Wear

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip, we recommend wearing quick-drying, non-cotton clothing on the river and secure footwear (no flip-flops!). Sunscreen, a hat, and a refillable water bottle are essential for sun protection. If you're joining us before mid-June or after Labor Day, bring warm layers like fleece, wool socks, and a rain jacket for cooler evenings. For camp, pack comfortable clothing, toiletries, and any personal extras like a book or small games. Gratuities for guides are not required but always appreciated! For a full packing list, please refer to the FAQs below.

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Noah's River Adventures

FAQs

Packing List

Packing List: Klamath River Overnight Rafting

River Clothing & Gear

  • Quick-drying clothing (swimsuit, shorts, sun-protective shirt, etc.) – avoid cotton!
  • Secure footwear (sandals with a heel strap or old tennis shoes – NO flip-flops!)
  • Sun protection:
    • Sunscreen
    • Sunglasses with a retainer strap (so they don’t fall in the river)
    • Wide-brimmed or baseball hat
  • Water bottle (no glass containers)

Cool-Weather Gear

(Recommended before mid-June & after Labor Day)

  • Warm synthetic layers (fleece, wool, or synthetic long sleeves)
  • Windbreaker or rain jacket
  • Warm hat & wool socks
  • Extra shoes & dry socks for camp

Camp Essentials

  • Comfortable camp clothing & shoes
  • Toiletries & personal hygiene items (travel-size recommended)
  • Towel (optional)
  • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries

Extras & Optional Items

  • Alcoholic beverages (if desired; no glass)
  • Games, cards, or a book for camp downtime
  • Camera or phone (waterproof case or dry bag recommended)

Important Notes

  • Gratuities are not required but always appreciated! The average tip is 10-20% of the trip cost based on service.
  • Please do not bring personal valuables – we are not responsible for lost or stolen items

Where can I learn more about the Klamath River Dam Removal?

For some more information on the Upper Klamath and dam removal process take a look at some recent coverage: – JPR interview with owner Bart – NPR interviews – Statesman Journal Podcast. – News 10 – Last Ride in Hells Corner: Rafters savor final season on Upper Klamath before dam removal

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, we can! You'll be able to select either vegetarian or meat meals at checkout, and share any dietary restrictions.

What if the weathers is bad?

Noah’s does not cancel trips due to natural weather events; this includes but is not limited to fires, smoke, lightning, cold or hot temperatures, and wind. The exception to this would concern safety. We will not run trips if weather events are dangerous.

What is the difficulty level of the rafting trip?

This trip includes a mix of Class III-IV+ whitewater, making it best suited for those who are comfortable with active paddling and adventure. No prior rafting experience is required, but you should be in generally good health and ready for an active trip.

What are the campsites like?

Our seasonal riverside camps are fully set up, with spacious tents, sleeping pads, and a communal dining area. There will be plenty of time to relax, explore, or enjoy appetizers by the fire after a day on the river.

Will I see wildlife?

Yes! The Upper Klamath is home to bald eagles, osprey, river otters, deer, and other wildlife. The dam removal has opened up new habitats, and each year we see more signs of ecological recovery.

Should I tip my guides?

Tipping is not required but always appreciated! If you feel your guides provided excellent service, gratuities typically range from 10-20% of the trip cost.

Cancellation Policy

This trip requires extensive planning and preparation. Some of the dates are very coveted. Therefore, we require a 30-day cancellation request. 100% refund if cancelled prior to the 30 day window. NO REFUNDS IF YOU NO-SHOW OR CANCEL WITHIN 30 DAYS of your trips departure.
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Availability

May 2025

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Reviews

Location

Address

53 N. Main St.

Ashland, OR, 97520

US

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