> California Salmon River Rafting Trips

RIVER & TRIP OPTIONS MAPS & TRAVEL DETAILS PRICING TRIP OPTIONS:   1-DAY TRIPS   l   2-DAY TRIPS

Narrow and steep gorge of tough whitewater. Season runs April - mid-June. more Difficulty & Scenery Advanced Class V Commanding, tumultuous rapids Sheer cliffs, numerous waterfalls Who Should Go Veteran rafters Those practicing for Cherry Creek Usual min. age: 15 Trips Include Pro guide & instruction Equipment & shuttle Fresh, delicious meals Location Select a Cal Salmon Trip Option 1-Day Trips - $224 2-Day Trips start at $409

MORE ABOUT THE CAL SALMON RIVER:

THE RAPIDS: Jaw-dropping Class V whitewater–tough, technical, exhilarating

The Cal Salmon ranks as one of the most difficult rivers in California. Rapids are steep, powerful, and often long. Water bounces off the narrow walls, careening downstream with intensity. In Class V Cascade rapid, you'll blast 15' down a tight chute of frothing whitewater. A few minutes later you'll come face to face with one of the river's biggest and longest challenges: boulder-strewn Class V Freight Train Rapid! At the end of this trip, you'll know you've accomplished something extraordinary.

USUAL MINIMUM AGE: 15 years of age

THE RIVER SCENERY: Crystal-clear waters flowing through a lush, granite gorge

The Cal Salmon's steep and narrow canyon inspires as much awe as its whitewater. When you catch your breath between rapids your eyes will be greeted with lush foliage and waterfalls lilting from high cliffs on both sides of the river. The canyon's beauty is so stunning that it is protected by congress as a National Wild and Scenic River.

RIVER LOCATION: Northern edge of California; one hour from Redding

Six and a half hours from the San Francisco Bay Area, the Cal Salmon is near the California-Oregon border. Highway 96 is the closest thoroughfare.

WHEN THE RIVER RUNS: April - mid-June

The Cal Salmon is a free-flowing river. With no upstream dams, the river depends on snowmelt for its flows. The Cal Salmon begins to run when the snow begins to melt in the mountains. Flows generally peak around Memorial Day.

MEALS: Freshly prepared riverside feasts

Our gourmet "build-your-own" sandwich bar includes all the fixings needed to assemble the perfect deli sandwich. We also serve juice and hors d'oeuvres of tortilla chips, salsa, and juicy summer fruits. We finish it off with a delicious dessert to satisfy any sweet tooth. Breakfast, dinner, and both lunches are provided on our multi-day trips. Our breakfasts vary from fancy continental-style fare to omelets cooked to order. At dinner you'll dine on hors d'oeuvres, tossed salad, garlic bread, baked potatoes and main dishes like grilled chicken and steak. And don't forget dessert–a freshly baked Dutch oven delight!

If you have special dietary requirements, we encourage you to tell us at the time of your reservation. We will do our very best to accommodate your needs.

GUEST INVOLVEMENT: How You Participate in Getting Down the River

Due to the difficulty of the upper section of this run, All-Outdoors usually runs oar-paddle combination rafts on the Cal Salmon. This effective combination of a guide with oars calling out commands to aggressive paddlers is the best way to enjoy Class V whitewater. When water levels on the upper section are lower, paddle rafts (both guides and guests navigate with paddles only) are sometimes an option. On the lower section, we often use paddle rafts. All guests should be able to swim.

On the first day of multi-day trips we usually run paddle rafts on the relatively easier Butler section. On the second day's Nordheimer Gorge Run, oar-paddle combination rafts are typically used. Both types of rafts offer the same "ride" differing only in terms of the raft's maneuverability.

THE NEXT STEP: Explore Trip Options or Begin the Booking Process

To learn more about our California Salmon rafting trips, explore our 1-Day & 2-Day trip options. If you want to start booking your trip now, you can call our office at (800) 247-2387 during business hours or check for available space online.