Smith River
★ Wild & Scenic🌲 Nat. Recreation Area
Del Norte Co. · 70 mi · Class II–III
1,320CFS/ 6.42 ft
Optimal→Stable
Optimal: 1000–5000 CFS · USGS #11532500
Length
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Hist. Median
USGS Gauge
National Wild & Scenic River (1981) · Smith River National Recreation Area · Six Rivers National Forest
California's last major undammed river — the Smith flows free from its headwaters in the Siskiyou Wilderness to the Pacific Ocean near Crescent City. Exceptionally clear water, old-growth redwood groves, and world-class steelhead fishing make the Smith one of the finest wild rivers on the West Coast. Best paddled in winter and spring rain season.
Trip sections
South Fork — Class II–III, redwood canyon, most popular
Middle Fork — Class III–IV, wilderness gorge
Main stem to Pacific — Class I–II, lower river, steelhead water
72-Hour Flow Forecast
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10-Year Flow Patterns
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Data Quality
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and trip sections may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level. If you spot an error, use the Improve This River button at the top of the page — your local knowledge is what makes this atlas accurate.