Klamath

We paddled the 16 miles from Access 1 to Iron Gate, a trip that took 4 hours and 15 minutes. The float from Access 1 to Kutarawaxu, the entrance to the Canyon approximately 6 miles from Access 1, was 1 hour and 30 minutes. We experienced swift current through the reach with riffles and a couple of class II rapids. The most signficant hazard was the 'ghost forest' where the river cut a 'new' channel through standing dead trees that were under the resercvoir for the past century. These trees were relatively easy to navigate for experienced paddlers but represent a potential hazard for those without solid boat control.

The float was a fascinating glimpse into the history of a landscape that was buried under a reservoir. Old bridge pilings for river crossings, remanents of irrigation infrastructure, and logs from past log drives can be seen along the banks of the river. Vegetation has started to grow in the old reservoir sediments with willow thickets becoming established along the banks. We also saw ideal spawning gravel that salmon were taking advantage of.

Photos of Copco Resevoir and access points following Hells Corner Flow Study.