North Coast River Rafting

North Coast Whitewater Rafting Overview

California's North Coast has many whitewater rafting locations and plenty of professional guide services to make your experience memorable. From the class V Oregon Hole Gorge of the Smith River, to the very secluded Eel River class II float, California has a whitewater experience for any skill level. A diversity of scenery includes coastal redwood forests and deep granite gorges and it all depends on which river you choose.

North Coast Whitewater Rafting
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Smith River runs through a lush river canyon known for its remoteness and short season. The North Fork Smith offers over 10-miles of class 3 and 4 rapids. The Middle Fork Smith offers over 5-miles of class 3 and the optional Oregon Hole Gorge, class 5. The South Fork Smith offers over 10-miles of pool and drop class 3 whitewater, with an optional mile of class 5 in the South Fork Gorge. Camping is available at Jedediah Smith State Park.

CLASS: Class III-V
DISTANCE: 50 miles
SEASON: March - May
LOCATION: East of Crescent City and Jedediah Smith State Park

OUTFITTERS:
Momentum River Expeditions
Tributary Whitewater Tours
Rogue Klamath River Adventures

Map  |   Accommodations  |   Other Ideas

Eel River traverses through a lush redwood forest. The Middle Fork Eel can have limited and unpredictable seasons. The combination of this with the fact that few commercial rafters operate here awards almost total seclusion. Over 25-miles of class 2 rapids meets 3-miles class 3 and 4 rapids. The final class 5 rapid Coal Mine Falls is either portaged or run by experienced boaters only. Large sandy beaches are available for lunch or camping.

CLASS: Class II-V
DISTANCE: 30 miles
SEASON: March - June
LOCATION: Northeast of Willits
SHUTTLE: (707) 926-5252

OUTFITTERS:
Tributary Whitewater Tours
Redwoods & Rivers

Map  |   Accommodations  |   Other Ideas

River Rafting by River

River Rafting by Region