Klamath River

The Klamath River supports a genetically unique population of rainbow trout able to survive the naturally high temperatures and acidity of the river. The Klamath one of only three rivers in the region and six in the state managed as a wild rainbow trout fishery, significant in a state known for its fishing. In addition, access to prime fishing spots is plentiful. Endangered species, such as the Lost River and shortnose suckers, are dependent on the Klamath River, as is the sensitive but non-listed Klamath largescale sucker.

Historic ranches along the river offer a glimpse into the challenges facing early settlers. One of few access points to the river is actually part of an historic stagecoach route serving the Klamath Basin and northern California. The livery station serving the stagecoach is still there. Just below the California border, an abandoned log flume speaks to one of the early uses of the river by Europeans.

There is considerable evidence that the Klamath River Canyon has been in use by Native Americans for at least 7,000 years, both as a place to make a living and as a location for vision quests, curing ceremonies, and spiritual preparation. The Shasta Nation and the Klamath Tribes consider the canyon to be sacred and of immeasurable spiritual significance. Burial sites add to the spiritual significance for both groups and allow their spiritual leaders to prepare for religious and medicinal ceremonies.

There are at least forty prehistoric sites in the canyon, including camps and burial grounds, offering important opportunities to learn about the past. Three, possibly four, Native American tribes' use of the river has earned it the distinction of being eligible for the National Register of Historic Places as an Archaeological District.

Class II-IV+ rapids and warm water provide a long whitewater boating season. The first five miles are relatively easy with Class II and III rapids for warm up. In Hell's Corner Gorge that follows, the pool-drop rapids are frequent and long, and boater expertise is a must for paddling at higher flows.

Opportunities to fish, hunt, and simply view the abundant wildlife are available year-round. There are many camping sites and easy hikes to view the unique resources of the river.  Scenic four-wheel drive touring is also popular.

Unique combinations of landform, water, and vegetation create a continually changing landscape as it changes from desert to mountainous. Steep canyon walls covered by a variety of pine, sagebrush, and juniper and decorated with basalt outcrops create an exceptionally peaceful experience.

The high-quality habitat in the canyon is exceptionally diverse. The riverine habitat is important to a variety of birds and mammals; it provides a natural migration corridor for a variety of raptors; the extensive rimrock is suited to raptor nesting; large conifers provide nesting and roosting locations for bald eagles and osprey; caves provide nursing and roosting spots for several bat species; and the extensive oak forest and grasslands are important to large numbers of wintering non-game birds.

The diversity of habitats provides for exceptional populations of birds of prey, game and other birds, ringtail cats, river otters, and many other animals. Numerous threatened, endangered, or species of concern are dependent on the Klamath River for their continued survival. Included in this list are bald and golden eagles, prairie and peregrine falcons, and Townsend's big-eared bats. Other notable residents include ospreys, Lewis's and acorn woodpeckers, and western pond turtles.