Raft Burnt Ranch Gorge, 2 days (Class V)

Whitewater raft Burnt Ranch Gorge, 2 days of Class 5 in the Trinity Alps!

 

Experienced rafters: here is one wild and scenic Class 5 stretch of the Trinity River for you—dropping in holes, high-siding boulders, feeling adrenaline pumping through your veins! This trip is for experienced rafters only. This is a California classic!

 

Collective waters from the magnificent Trinity Alps and a reliable release out of Lewiston Lake provide a summer-long flow of remarkable clean, clear water on the Trinity River. Normally a tame and safe Class II-III river, which is a favorite for kayakers and family groups, the Trinity also offers the extreme challenge of Burnt Ranch Gorge. Long considered unrunnable due to countless falls and violent rapids boasting 8’-10’ chutes and drops, the first raft descent in 1982 paved the way for commercial trips down this challenging stretch of whitewater. For summer and early fall rafting, Burnt Ranch Gorge is one of the few Class V rivers available in California. WARNING: Not recommended for inexperienced rafters. All participants must be experienced paddlers, competent swimmers, and in good physical condition.

 

On this two day trip, we will meet at our campsite in the Trinity Alps anytime on Friday night. If you get a late start, and find that you need to pull over and sleep while in route, just make sure you are at the campsite by 9:00 am on Saturday. Saturday morning you’ll meet your guides, life jackets and helmets will be fitted and a river safety and equipment lesson will be given. Due to the difficulty of this run, all participants will be given a Class V paddlers test (note: this usually is to show you are not afraid of the water. You'll probably be asked to swim under the boat). After this orientation we will board the rafts and head out for a day of whitewater action. The morning will allow us to practice our commands and develop good team rhythm on some class 3 and 4 before the serious whitewater comes. Later, be prepared to experience drops, eddies, irregular currents, and holes as we take on rapids such as China Slide, Pearly Gates, Tight Squeeze, Jaws, and Rude Awakening. We will feast on a hearty lunch at a riverside sandy beach and continue downstream for more Class 4-5 action.

 

After a wet day, we will take out at Middle Burnt Ranch Falls and hike a short distance to our campground. At camp, the guides will set up a kitchen and prepare a decadent meal. At camp you can hike, fish (bring your gear and your fishing license) or just relax. <br> In the morning, awake to the smell of coffee and breakfast, then get ready for another exciting day on the river. This day includes the best of the extreme whitewater with Class V rapids such as Lower Falls, Hennessy Falls, Origami, Table Rock, and Gray’s Fall.

 

Anyone wishing to come up a day early, or stay Monday, there is plenty for you to do on your own. Hikers and bicyclers: there are enough trails and fireroads to keep you hiking or riding for days. And of course, there is plenty of class 2-3 kayaking for experienced kayakers. Although these activities are not part of the package, we will be happy to help point you in the right direction to enhance your adventure!