Are you ready for some whitewater? Southern Oregon-based Indigo Creek Outfitters has offered heart-pumping rafting trips on the Rogue and Klamath rivers since 2011. Now that four dams have been completely removed from the Klamath River in Southern Oregon and Northern California, Indigo Creek is offering two brand-new adventures on the Oregon segments of the Upper Klamath River in 2025.
A New Riverscape Revealed
The Klamath River originates in Klamath County and winds 260 miles to the Pacific Ocean. It historically hosted abundant salmon runs that were vitally important to the health and culture of several groups of Indigenous people who live along the river.
But dams have blocked fish and altered natural flows and temperatures in the river for over 100 years. For decades, a coalition led by several regional tribes advocated for the removal of four dams along the Klamath. Once dam removal became a reality, three outfitters — Indigo Creek Outfitters, Momentum River Expeditions and Noah’s River Adventures — formed the Upper Klamath Outfitters Association to advocate for recreation opportunities on the “new” Klamath River.
In 2024 the reservoirs were drained and four dams were completely removed. Now that this portion of the river is flowing freely, fall Chinook and coho salmon have already found their way into streams above the former dam sites — and rafting options along the river have been transformed. “This is a really special moment for our region. It’s only going to happen once in our lifetimes,” says Will Volpert, owner at Indigo Creek. Here’s what to know about experiencing this newly changed river landscape.
Big Water on Big Bend
A new day trip called Big Bend, which was the original name of the reservoir created by the J.C. Boyle dam, is much more accessible now that the dam and reservoir are gone. This reach about 20 miles southwest of Klamath Falls just below the former dam site is just under 6 miles long but full of big water. It also undergoes a few personality changes, says Volpert.
The first section serenely winds through the former reservoir and dam site — fascinating stuff for history and engineering buffs. About 2 miles in, a large influx of spring water pumps up the volume and the whitewater begins, with Class IV and IV+ rapids that achieve Class V status at certain flows — the highest navigable rapid classification. This reach is the steepest of the entire Klamath River, making it a fun technical challenge for guides and guests. The landscape, with its steep canyon walls, is also spectacular.
Before dam removal, much of the Big Bend section was partially diverted into a canal that fed the hydroelectric plant. The year 2025 marks the first time since the dam was built that this stretch will have consistent water. “It’s pretty remarkable and unusual to have a brand-new river pop up in your backyard, but that’s exactly what’s happened,” says Volpert.
Participants should be in good shape and excited by the idea of challenging whitewater for this trip. If that sounds like you, join the wait list.
A New Perspective on Hell’s Corner
Hell’s Corner Overnight is a rollicking adventure that starts about 25 miles southwest of Klamath Falls and ends just south of Oregon’s southern border.
The flow in this reach used to be directly controlled by the J.C. Boyle dam right upstream. Water was held and released in a predictable if unnatural daily pattern to feed the hydroelectric plant. Flows peaked in late morning to midafternoon, and outfitters had to time their trips to catch these peak flows. Now more natural flows have changed how rafters experience the series of rapids on this reach, says Volpert. You’ll notice how steep the river is here because the rapids aren’t as filled in. Instead of big “wave trains,” they feel more like a series of drops.
The landscape is equally breathtaking. At a rapid called Caldera, broad-shouldered slopes give way to steeper terrain as the river cuts through the Cascade mountains — one of only three rivers to do so. Your guide will point out the Salt Caves, where a sheer wall of bedrock meets the river. This spot was slated for yet another hydroelectric dam, but Congressional Wild and Scenic designation saved it from this fate. That evening you’ll make camp smack-dab between two big rapids: Satan’s Gate and Hell’s Corner. After refueling on grilled steaks and freshly baked cobbler under a star-studded sky, you can dream of the whitewater still to come.
No experience is necessary for this overnight trip, but be ready for big whitewater in a stunning river canyon. For those looking to add to their adventure, opt for a third day to experience more of the Klamath River to the south.
If you go:
- For all trips, guests meet at Indigo Creek in downtown Phoenix. Transportation and food are all included, as well as all gear and expert instruction.
- Note that there are minimum age (14) and maximum weight restrictions for both trips.
- Be prepared to get wet!
- Come ready to go with the flow. Rivers and weather are dynamic, and the outfitter may need to change some trip logistics to ensure a fun and safe time.
