Hidden deep in far Northern California lies the heart of the second longest river system in the state, the Wild and Scenic Lower Klamath River. Cutting through the tangled and rugged peaks and ridges of the Klamath-Siskiyou ecoregion it offers fun splashy whitewater, beautiful mountain scenery, one of the best side hikes in California, warm water, lots of wildlife, and very few people. The style of whitewater gives the river an amazing ability to satisfy three plus generations of family or friends and the flexibility of its ‘off the beaten path’ status allows us to tailor itineraries to a wide variety of groups. Because of this the Lower ‘K’ is both one of our most well-loved trips for families with small children, and one of our most popular rivers for custom and charter itineraries with groups ranging from high adventure seekers to youth and school groups.
The Klamath-Siskiyou region is a jumbled mass of rugged mountains, complex terrain features, and varied geology and climate. This unique combination has created one of the world’s most biodiverse temperate regions and it is designated as one of only seven Areas of Global Biological Significance on the continent and called by some the “Gallapagos of North America’. Besides the diversity of plants it is common to see black bear, deer, turtles, otter, blue heron and bald eagles. Legend also has it that the region is the home of the elusive Bigfoot and most of the locals have at least one Bigfoot tale.
As the Lower Klamath cuts westward, the canyon becomes more and more lush, and numerous side streams and rivers add to the flow. We journey through the most scenic and secluded miles, including a visit to the rain-forest setting of Ukonom Falls, one of the finest side hikes in California. We can swim in the pools below the falls or just lie on the rocks enjoying the sun.
Our Lower Klamath trips are done with Momentum’s signature style, attention to detail, and handcrafted quality. With comfortable and innovative wilderness camping, creative menus, personal service and hospitality, one of the most experienced (and friendly) guide staffs in the world, and with all the little details and touches we are known for. We arrive to a fully set up camp and afternoons are spent playing beach games, swimming, exploring or just relaxing on the beach. Nights are spent free of light pollution with the view of the stars overhead obstructed only by the shadows of the Klamath Mountains.
We run more famous stretches of river but the Lower Klamath more than holds its own and has always been loved by the people who know her. Trips regularly go by without sighting any other river travelers besides the turtles. The river truly offers you a chance to slow down, unwind, and watch the world float by.
Our standard Lower Klamath trips are 3-days in length and family focused. However, a great feature of the Klamath is that we can be very flexible with the itinerary and dates and we can tailor the trip and choice of river craft to a wide variety of groups.
Lower Klamath Family Rafting Trips
The Lower Klamath is a great trip for families trips with multiple generations and with young children – a perfect introduction to rafting, river travel, and camping. For those wanting more excitement (young adults, dad’s, mom’s?) we bring along inflatable kayaks, making the trip great for a wide range of ages.
Private and Charter Trips on the Lower Klamath
Build Your Own Lower Klamath Trip. We specialize in putting together custom, charter, luxury camping, and private trips – it is one of our passions. Close to half of our trips are private or chartered and we have crafted custom itineraries and catered to unique needs and interests. The Lower Klamath is uniquely suited for custom and private trips with it’s off the beaten path status, flexible itineraries, and whitewater.