Upper Klamath River Rafting Trips
Oregon’s Class IV whitewater
Upper Klamath River rafting features two legendary canyon reaches and multiple trip styles to choose from. Run the classic, technical Hell’s Corner, explore the newly reawakened Ward’s Canyon (Kikacéki), or link both on a 2 or 3-day expedition for the complete experience.
Guiding the Upper Klamath since 2002, High Country Expeditions brings the local knowledge, scouting, and logistics that matter on a dynamic river, plus premium gear, clear instruction, and small-group focus.
Hell’s Corner 1-Day Rafting
The classic Upper Klamath run: sustained Class IV whitewater, big rapids, and a true wilderness canyon feel. All gear and lunch included.
Ward’s Canyon 1-Day Rafting
A powerful reawakened section referred to as the “New Klamath”, flowing free again after dam removal. Steep canyon and technical rapids.
Upper Klamath 2-Day Expedition
Combine Hell’s Corner and Ward’s Canyon for the full Upper Klamath story. Overnight camp, Dark skies a full immersion.
Upper Klamath 3-Day Expedition
The complete Upper Klamath immersion. Reconnect, with two nights of riverside camping, dark skies, with more exploration.
A River Reawakens: Whitewater History in the Making
For over 100 years, the wild spirit of the Klamath River was bottled behind four major dams. John C. Boyle, Copco No. 1, Copco No. 2, and Iron Gate. Now, following the largest dam removal project in U.S. history, the Klamath is flowing free again. Whether you want a one-day whitewater thrill or the ultimate 2-day expedition, the Klamath offers something truly rare: a wild, reawakening river bursting with history, power, and natural wonder. This is more than a river trip, it’s a rare opportunity to witness nature in revival.
Once-submerged and hidden reaches like Wards Canyon, Copco lake and Iron Gate stretches are revealing their long-lost channels, wild creeks, ancient log structures, and newly exposed canyon walls. Horses roam, spring wildflowers bloom in kaleidoscopic color, and birds flock along this vital artery of the Pacific Flyway. It’s a dynamic, ever-changing landscape, and one of the most thrilling whitewater destinations in the West. Water temperatures generally range between 60 and 70 degrees, making for a refreshing, invigorating ride.
Why Whitewater Raft With Us
- Running the Upper Klamath since 2002 with a safety-first culture and experienced guides
- All-inclusive gear and comfort: helmets, PFDs, wetsuits and booties when needed, plus dry bags for essentials
- Small-boat approach at lower flows for sharper lines, more control, and more fun
- Real river knowledge: guides who share geology, wildlife, and the story of the Klamath’s restoratio
- Deep commitment to stewardship and safety
Reverence for Land and Culture
The Klamath River is more than scenery and whitewater. For thousands of years, Indigenous communities have lived with this river, shaped by its seasons, waters, and stories.
In recent years, the Klamath has entered a new era of restoration through one of the largest dam removal efforts in U.S. history, reopening river miles that have been altered for generations. As the river continues to heal, the landscape is changing fast, and the Klamath is revealing itself in real time.
We are honored and humbled to guide guests through these ancestral lands. We share this space with reverence, acknowledging its past, its future, and the privilege of being here now. From traditional fishing areas to places of cultural significance and living histories that remain present today, this river holds deep meaning beyond recreation. Our guides aim to be thoughtful stewards, not just of the rapids, but of the place.
Today, we’re able to offer two distinct ways to experience this restored corridor:
- Hell’s Corner Reach Classic: the proven Upper Klamath benchmark with continuous, stacked whitewater
- Ward’s Canyon (Kikacéki Reach): a newly reopened stretch where the river is actively rebuilding its channel after reservoir drawdown
You’ll float past land once lost to reservoirs, now alive again. Former reservoir footprints are transforming into vibrant river corridors. Creeks are rejoining the flow, native plants are returning, and century-old sediment is reshaping into new gravel bars and banks. The riverbed and its surroundings reveal the past while pointing to a hopeful, natural future.
Kikacéki Reach | 1-Day Whitewater
What Makes This Run Unique
Ward’s Canyon, known as the Kikacéki Reach (New Klamath), is the newest chapter of Upper Klamath River rafting, revealed as major dam removals reopened the river corridor and restored continuous flow in 2024.
From the Former Copco Lake to the Canyon
This trip begins by floating through the former Copco Lake footprint, where the Klamath is actively rebuilding its channel. This opening section is generally Class II, scenic, and constantly evolving as the river forms new lines, gravel bars, and banks.
Four Miles of Technical Canyon Whitewater
After the valley stretch the character changes fast, you drop into roughly four miles of steep, technical canyon whitewater. This is the heart of the Kikacéki Reach with precise moves, crisp lines, and that “how is this real?” feeling as canyon walls rise and rapids stack together.
Why This Feels Historic
For more than a century, this canyon was shaped by the hydropower era and altered flows. Now it’s running again, and the result is one of the most striking restored whitewater corridors on the West Coast. Wild, powerful, and still revealing itself.
Hell’s Corner | 1-Day Whitewater
What Makes This Run Unique
The Hell’s Corner Reach is the classic Upper Klamath run with a continuous stretch of powerful Class III–IV+ whitewater with over 40 named rapids and some of the most consistent summer flows in the region.
A Continuous Stretch of Whitewater
Unlike pool-and-drop rivers, Hell’s Corner delivers steady, stacked rapids from start to finish. There’s no long flat-water recovery between features, just wave trains, technical moves, and canyon walls closing in around you.
40+ Named Rapids, standout hits like Caldera, Satan’s Gate, and Hell’s Corner define this run. Depending on seasonal flows, expect everything from big wave trains to precise technical lines
Why This Run Has Earned Its Reputation
For decades, Hell’s Corner has been the benchmark for Southern Oregon and Northern California whitewater. It’s known for reliability, strong current, tight canyon features, and that unmistakable Upper Klamath energy. This is the run that built the river’s reputation.
2–3 Day Upper Klamath Expedition: The Full River Story
Why choose one reach when you can run both for the complete Upper Klamath experience? This multi-day expedition pairs the newly restored Ward’s Canyon (Kikacéki Reach) with the legendary Hell’s Corner Classic for a true start-to-finish whitewater journey. Same river, two very different personalities.
Ward’s Canyon (Kikacéki Reach)
A high-variety day with technical canyon whitewater and newly revealed river corridor scenery. Expect crisp Class IVlines, fresh terrain, and a channel that continues to evolve.
Hell’s Corner Reach (Classic)
Remote, sustained whitewater with long technical sequences, powerful wave trains, and deep canyon walls. This is the original Upper Klamath legend and the more logistically complex day.
2-Day vs 3-Day
The 2-day option runs both reaches back-to-back. The 3-day option adds more time on the water, a relaxed camp pace, and the full canyon rhythm of multi-day river travel.
Logistics note (important): Upper Klamath multi-days are a true expedition—remote canyon travel, rugged access, and the shuttle support required to connect the reaches. Hell’s Corner requires a minimum guest count (typically two boats). Many overnights are formed by pairing smaller parties (often 2–4 guests) into a well-matched on-river crew, and we’ll round out the group when possible so the trip can happen.
What to Expect
Expect a professional check-in, a clear safety briefing, and a quick paddling clinic before you launch. On the water, your guide will coach the boat, call moves early, and keep the energy fun and focused. We choose raft configurations based on conditions and your group: paddle rafts for teamwork and high engagement, stern-frame setups for added guide control with lighter paddling demands, and multi-day gear frames built for comfort, stability, and carrying camp equipment.
Trip FAQs and Quick Facts
What is the difference between Hell’s Corner Reach and Ward’s Canyon (Kikacéki Reach)?
Hell’s Corner is the classic, continuous Class IV run with iconic named rapids and a remote canyon feel. Ward’s Canyon (Kikacéki Reach) is part of the newly restored river corridor, with steep technical rapids and newly revealed scenery after dam removal.
What is the minimum age?
Minimum age depends on flow and the section. Hell’s Corner is typically best for strong, confident teens and adults. Ward’s Canyon may allow slightly younger ages during moderate flows. Call us with your group details and we will match the right trip.
Do you provide wetsuits, helmets, and other gear?
Yes. We provide helmets, PFDs, and the right layers for conditions, including wetsuits and neoprene booties when needed. Dry bags are available for essentials.
Where do we meet?
Your confirmation email will include exact meeting directions and timing. Most guests travel from Southern Oregon and Northern California. If you are coming from Klamath Falls, Ashland, Medford, or Hornbrook, tell us and we will confirm the best plan.
How hard is this trip?
Upper Klamath trips are active and require paddling, bracing, and listening to guide commands.
When is the best time to go?
Upper Klamath season typically runs late spring through summer, with the biggest flows earlier and more technical lines as flows drop. We’ll help you pick the best date for your comfort level.
What meals are included?
Day trips include a satisfying riverside lunch. Multi-day trips include all meals on the river. Tell us about dietary needs and we will do our best to accommodate.
What should I wear?
Plan for quick-dry layers, secure footwear, and sun protection. We’ll recommend wetsuits and splash gear when conditions call for it.
Getting Here | Upper Klamath River Rafting Near Ashland & the Rogue Valley
All Upper Klamath River trips meet in Ashland, Oregon at the CVS / Albertsons parking lot for check-in and shuttle logistics.
Meeting Window: 8:15–8:45am
Exact meet time is included in your confirmation letter and may shift slightly based on the reach (Hell’s Corner Reach or Ward’s Canyon/Kikacéki Reach), river flows, and shuttle logistics.
Meeting Location: CVS / Albertsons Parking Lot
2341 Ashland St, Ashland, OR 97520
Where to Park and How to Find Us
Park toward the back of the parking lot and look for our clearly marked High Country Expeditions vehicles(van/trailer).
Driving Times (Approx.)
- From Medford: 25 minutes
- From Grants Pass: 50 minutes
- From Yreka, CA: 45 minutes
- From Portland: 4.5–5 hours (depending on traffic and where you start)
Please avoid the front entrance spots—park toward the back so we don’t interfere with store traffic.
TRANSPORTATION: Transportation to and from the river is always provided from our meeting location.
Upper Klamath River Rafting Trip Options
WHEN TO GO: May – September
DIFFICULTY: Class 4 to 4+
PRICE: Trips starting at $250 per person
Upper Klamath 3 Day River Trip
Upper Klamath 3 Day River Trip
Upper Klamath 2 Day River Trip
Upper Klamath 2 Day River Trip
Upper Klamath Kikacéki ‘Wards Canyon’ 1 Day Adventure
Upper Klamath Kikacéki ‘Wards Canyon’ 1 Day Adventure
Upper Klamath ‘Hells Corner’ Classic 1 Day Trip
