Kayaking & Canoeing Klickitat River Washington

The Klickitat rises in southern Washington, from Mt. Adams and the Goat Rock Wilderness. It cuts its way through an 800 ft. deep canyon with basalt cliffs, and plenty of waterfalls and side streams. Boaters will experience deep canyon rim-to-rim views, with twisted lava formations, a rainbow of wildflowers, and dense oak forests. The continuous Class III and Class IV rapids wind for 21 miles through lush woodland on the eastern edge of the Cascade Mountains.

This run can only be done in the spring when glacial snowfields melt to fill the river. The rapids on the Klickitat are characterized by long wave trains, boulder gardens and twisting bends. It is appropriate for strong boaters with lots of Class III experience. Intermediate paddlers might want to consider this run in the summer when lower flows create more eddies and mellow out the rapids.

Running this river is a true wilderness experience with no access to the river between the put-in and take-out points. It is protected by the Wild and Scenic River system and there are many great opportunities for camping, making the Klickitat the perfect weekend getaway for those who live nearby. Portland is only a two-hour drive.

The river is named after the Native American tribe that once lived on its banks. Klickitat comes from a Native American word meaning “beyond,” though some say the appropriate translation is actually “robber.” Today, two active Native American fisheries operate below the take out.