Upper Klamath River Class IV Full Day Rafting Trip

Guided

Duration: 1 day

Ashland • Hornbrook

Features

Free Cancellation

Wildlife

Instant Book

Shuttle Included

Locally Owned

$250 Person

Description

Upper Klamath River Full Day Whitewater Rafting Trip

The Klamath Full Day trip is BACK! After a brief pause following the removal of the Klamath River Dams, the trips on the Upper Klamath returned in 2025. This action-packed journey takes you through the newly restored Copco (Kikaceki) Valley, Ward’s (Kikaceki) Canyon, and Iron Gate (Kucascas) Valley, offering an incredible mix of scenic floats and heart-pounding whitewater.

We start the day at Access 1, where you'll gear up while enjoying a continental breakfast. Our guides will provide equipment and go over safety essentials as they prepare the boats. The adventure begins with a 6.5-mile warm-up through Copco (Kikaceki) Valley, a stretch of river where you’ll witness the landscape healing year after year. This mellow section is perfect for getting comfortable in the raft while reviewing paddle commands, weight distribution, and safety features—making this trip accessible for all skill levels.

As we approach Ward’s (Kikaceki) Canyon, we’ll reinforce paddling techniques before plunging into a world-class whitewater experience. This 2.5-mile canyon run delivers stunning scenery and thrilling rapids, making it a true highlight of the trip. We’ll take time to soak in the breathtaking views and enjoy the exhilarating ride before emerging into Iron Gate (Kucascas) Valley.

At Kucascas Access, we’ll take a bathroom break, pick up inflatable kayaks for those who want more adventure, and prepare for lunch. A mile downstream at “The Pinch,” we’ll stop for a hearty riverside meal before continuing through the former Iron Gate Reservoir footprint. The final 6-mile stretch of Class II-III rapids provides a fun, fast-paced ride to our takeout at Bush Creek.

Because of the technical nature of Kikaceki Canyon, we limit rafts to four paddlers maximum to ensure an optimal experience

Duration

3 hours, 30 minutes on the water

Location / Where to Meet

We pick up and drop off in Ashland at the following locations:

North Ashland - Comfort Inn - 7:45 AM
Downtown Ashland - Noah's Information Center - 8:00 AM
South Ashland - Rite Aid - 8:15 AM

You'll choose your pickup location at checkout.

Ages & Requirements

Minimum Age: 12

Maximum Age: 75

What's Included

Experienced guides
All rafting and safety equipment
Shuttle to/from the river
A full deli style lunch.

Not Included

Gratuity

What to Bring / Wear

Quick-dry clothing (avoid cotton)
Secure footwear (river sandals with a heel strap or water shoes—no flip-flops)
Sunscreen (waterproof and reef-safe recommended)
Hat & sunglasses (with a retainer strap)
Water bottle (with a carabiner to clip onto the raft)
Change of clothes & towel (for after the trip)

Klamath River Rafting - Hells Corner

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Noah's River Adventures

FAQs

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 weather 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 this Upper Klamath River rafting trip?

This trip includes Class 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.

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.

What class of rapids will we experience on the Upper Klamath?

The trip features a mix of Class II, III, and IV whitewater. The beginning section is mellow, while Kikaceki Canyon offers thrilling Class IV rapids before the river mellows out again in the final stretch.

Is there a weight limit?

The only requirement is that guests can fit into the PFDs (personal flotation devices). If anyone is unable to fit we can’t take them out on the river.

Do people ever fall out of the raft?

Yes, people fall out of the raft from time to time, but if you pay attention and listen to your guide, the chances of falling out are small. Young children, people with disabilities and non-swimmers can request a senior guide.

Cancellation Policy

We refund 100% of payment when you notify Noah’s at least 48 hours prior to trips departure. NO REFUNDS IF YOU NO-SHOW OR CANCEL WITHIN 48 HOURS of your trips departure