River Rafting
Adrenaline Around Every Turn
The Trinity River ranges from stretches of flat calm pools to raging rapids, as it carries water from the peaks of the Trinity Alps toward the Pacific Ocean.
The upper river, from Lewiston Dam down to the mouth of the North Fork at Helena is a moderate stretch of water enjoyed by canoeists and rafters who are more into sun and a cool river experience than into excitement.
From the North Fork down to Big Bar lies the “Pigeon Point Run.” This class 2 and class 3 whitewater is the most heavily run stretch of river, popular with private rafters as well as rafting outfitters from throughout California.
The Pigeon Point Run should be run by rafters and kayakers with class 3 whitewater experience, or go with a licensed outfitter.
Burnt Ranch Gorge, which begins at Cedar Flat, is extreme Class five whitewater, and should be run only by experts experienced in heavy, technical rapids. The gorge ends at the Hawkins Bar River Access. A few outfitters are licensed to offer trips through Burnt Ranch Gorge.
A map of the river, from Junction City down to Cedar Flat, is available from the USDA Forest Service at Big Bar.
Companies
Please support our Trinity County Chamber of Commerce members.
There are many rafting companies up and down the Trinity River. Call around to find the best fit for you. Prices are per person as listed in the summer of 2012. Call for current pricing.
BigFoot Rafting Family trips, company trips, school trips, or special occasion trips- we do it all! Whether you want an action-packed whitewater ride or a calm gentle float, our guides will lead the way with their expertise, vast knowledge of the area, and love of the river. 530-629-2263
Old Bridge Rafting & Guide Service in Lewiston is a family oriented company. They offer class 1 and class 2 guided trips from old bridge to steel bridge. Reservations 530-778-0509.
Redwoods and Rivers Rafting in Big Bar offers the full range of guide and multiple day trips, plus specialty trips that include all-women, intercity youth, kids camp, and seniors. Rentals are available for class 2 sections only. Other services include kayaking lessons, training courses, and driftboat fishing. 530-623-4627 or 800.429.0090
Six Rivers Rafting offers a variety of trips: Best Whitewater, Hayden Flat to Cedar Flat, full and half day trips, a scenic dinner trip, Trinity River South Fork, Coffee Creek, and the California salmon hordheimer. 707-599-4221
Trinity River Adventure Inn on the Trinity River offers family- and dog-friendly guided trips and raft rentals. (530) 778-3444
Trinity River Rafting since 1988, is located in Big Flat at the takeout of the popular Pigeon Point Run. Trinity River Rafting offers rentals, daily guided half day and full day whitewater rafting trips, challenging Class IV spring runs, summertime Class V Burnt Ranch Gorge runs, and an Inflatable Kayak School. 530-623-3033 or 800 30-RIVER (307-4837).