Upper Chetco River
Navigate the Kalmiopsis Wilderness on the
Upper Chetco River
- Length: 20 miles kayaking + 10 mile hike / 5 days
- Activities: Class IV Inflatable Kayaking + Hiking
- Includes: Professional guides, food, and all equipment
This trip is not for the faint-of-heart. You’ll be physically challenged, but rewarded with paddling a gorgeous emerald waterway that few people have ever seen.
“This is the perfect trip for an adventurous soul who wants to see a beautiful river canyon few have ever seen.”Zach Collier
Day 1
We’ll begin by traversing the Kalmiopsis Wilderness by foot and then paddle down the river by inflatable kayak. We’ll travel light and pack in only necessary supplies.
When we reach the river, it will be time to pump up and rig the boats. We’ll camp at the put-in that night.
Day 2
After a simple breakfast the first morning, we’ll have a thorough river safety course. After the instruction you’ll jump in your kayak and head down the gorgeous Chetco River.
Days 3 and 4
The upper gorge of the Chetco is beautiful beyond belief. Its tight, intimate canyon is one that should be savored so you’ll want to take your time traveling down the Class IV rapids. We’ll stop to scout all the big rapids and will portage a few of the bigger ones.
The next couple of days, we’ll just enjoy this stunning wilderness. There are many places to stop, swim the crystal-clear pools and take a few side hikes up the small creeks that feed the Chetco.
Day 5
On day 5, we’ll cross the wilderness boundary, where the river opens up on the approach to Tolman Ranch where our trip will end.