Rafting the Scott River

The Scott River is a nice Class V run that is usually done by expert rafters in conjunction with the Cal Salmon. The Scott begins in the spectacular Marble Mountains and flows through the Scott Valley before dropping into a forested canyon full of rapids.

The River

Just past Indian Scotty Campground is the Class V+ rapid Boulder Creek Falls which is usually portaged. This is closely followed by the Class V Canyon Creek Rapid. There are two put-ins that can be used to avoid Boulder Creek Falls.

Below Canyon Creek Rapid, the river has fairly continuous Class IV action with the occasional Class V rapid. The biggest rapid on the Scott River is the Class V White House which comes just past Middle Creek. Other Class V rapids are Tompkins Creek Rapid and Schuler Gulch.

Take-out is on river right above the Scott Bar Bridge. Some trips put-in here to enjoy three miles of Class II and III rapids down to confluence between the Scott and Klamath Rivers.

If you're interested in pictures and the perspective of an inflatable kayaker, check out Creekin's Scott River description.

Directions

To Scott Bar Bridge (take-out): If you're coming from Sacramento take Interstate 5 north and exit in Yreka. While you're filling up your gas tank, ask the gas attendant how to get yourself onto Highway 96. You'll drive eight miles north of Yreka and head west on Highway 96. Then you'll drive about 35 miles along the Klamath River before you cross the Scott River. Hang a left on Scott River Road and drive up the canyon to the Scott Bar Bridge.

To reach Indian Scotty Campground: Keep driving up Scott River Road until you see Indian Scotty Campground. If you find yourself in the Scott Valley, you've gone too far.

Outfitters

Indigo Creek Outfitters

Momentum River Expeditions

Redwoods & Rivers

Tributary Whitewater Tours

Disclaimer: River descriptions and classifications may change due to natural events that may create new hazards or flows. C-W-R advises that any paddler that uses this site be additionally informed by seeking out local news and updates for changes on this river.