The Trinity River, a major tributary of the Klamath River, flows through the rugged and picturesque landscapes of Northern California. Originating in the Trinity Alps, this 165-mile-long river courses through a diverse range of environments, including dense forests, mountainous terrain, and scenic canyons. Known for its stunning beauty, the Trinity River offers outdoor enthusiasts a wealth of recreational opportunities, from whitewater rafting and fishing to hiking along its meandering shores.
Trips meet at the near Big Bar, California. We will provide the shuttle to/from the river as needed.
Tributary Whitewater Tours operates under a special use permit issued by the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and is an equal opportunity service provider.
The wildlife and scenery are excellent along the Trinity River or “Hoopa”, as it is called by the local Hoopa tribe. The silent river runner can often sight deer, hawks, eagles, osprey, herons, kingfishers, and the occasional bear, mink or otter.
The area has a rich gold mining history. In 1851, nearly 10,000 miners were working the Trinity River and its side creeks. The total population of California at this time was roughly 50,000 people. Legend has it that many Chinese miners lost their lives in a land slide near the “China Slide” take-out.
The history of the Trinity River is deeply intertwined with the cultural legacy of Native American tribes, particularly the Hoopa Valley Tribe. For centuries, these indigenous communities have revered the Trinity River for its spiritual significance and its role in sustaining their way of life. The river has served as a vital resource for fishing, providing a source of sustenance and a focal point for ceremonial practices. However, with the arrival of European settlers and the California Gold Rush in the mid-19th century, the Trinity River faced significant environmental changes, including disruptions to its ecosystems due to hydraulic mining and other anthropogenic activities. In recent decades, collaborative efforts, such as the Trinity River Restoration Program, seek to restore and balance the river’s health, taking into account both its ecological importance and its cultural value to Native American communities.
The Trinity River is renowned for its diverse wildlife and serves as a critical habitat for various species. The river supports significant runs of salmon and steelhead, making it a prized destination for anglers seeking world-class fishing opportunities. Chinook and coho salmon, as well as steelhead, undertake remarkable migrations along the Trinity River, contributing to the overall health of the region’s fisheries. The silent river runner can often sight deer, hawks, eagles, osprey, herons, kingfishers, and the occasional bear, mink or otter. The riparian zones along the riverbanks provide essential habitat for a variety of bird species, contributing to the area’s rich biodiversity. Conservation efforts aim to protect and restore the Trinity River’s ecosystems, ensuring that its wildlife populations continue to thrive and that the river remains a haven for both nature enthusiasts and the diverse species that call it home.
The land around the Trinity River is traditionally inhabited by Native American communities, with a notable presence of the Hoopa Valley Tribe. These indigenous peoples have deep-rooted connections to the land, and the Trinity River holds profound cultural and spiritual significance in their heritage.
Acknowledging the Indigenous communities whose lands we visit is a crucial step in understanding our shared history and the ongoing challenges faced by these populations today. For more insight, visit our Territory Acknowledgement page. We encourage you to learn about the people whose land we’re privileged to explore by following the links above. Our Territory Acknowledgement is an evolving project. If you find missing information or acknowledgments, please share it with us. Together, we can ensure accuracy, inclusivity, and respect. Thank you.
We launch trips on many different rivers in California, Oregon and Idaho. For questions give our main office a call – we would love to talk with you about our trips and rivers.
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Our vision is to create a sustainable and equitable reality where our rivers are enjoyed and protected, a place where families and friends can be inspired and challenged.
Tributary Whitewater Tours has been running rivers since we were first founded in 1978. Since we opened 40+ years ago we have expanded to include Adventure Connection, Mariah Wilderness Expeditions, High Desert River Outfitters, Canyon Outfitters and are the parent company of Raft California and Raft Oregon. While some things have changed over the years, Tributary remains a family-run small business with the same passion for the river and the mission of leading others to experience it.
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