Upper Sacramento River

In April, as the snow begins to melt on Mt. Shasta, the Upper Sacramento springs to life. Side creeks cascade into the river, spring wildflowers blossom in the warm sun, and animals return to forage along the riverbanks (deer, otter, and osprey are often spotted). It’s the first river we run each season as veteran guides warm up and new guides train in our guide school.

Located only a few hours north of the Bay Area, the Upper Sacramento is loaded with non-stop action — 14 miles of almost continuous Class 3 whitewater.

Flowing from snowcapped Mount Shasta and the rugged Trinity Mountains, the headwaters of California’s largest river, offers a feeling of remote wilderness as it winds its way through a narrow mountain canyon. Exciting for novice and experienced rafters alike, this is also one of the best whitewater rivers in California for inflatable kayakers — fast and fun.

“I wanted to thank you for everything. My ‘way too cool to go anywhere with mom & dad’ teens had a blast. The food and camping was great, the guides — Ben & Chet — were so down to earth and fun to be with. We would do it again in a heartbeat and are looking forward to next year.” Tracy