The North Coast Rivers drain the western slopes of the coastal range, from north of the outlet of the San Francisco Bay to the Oregon border. These rivers include the Russian, Eel, Trinity, Salmon, Klamath and Smith Rivers. The North Coast area is characterized by heavy precipitation during the rainy season, and magnificent, ancient forests. The rivers of the North Coast are the most undeveloped of any in California. The Smith River National Recreation Area, at the state’s far northwestern corner, protects the Smith River, the only undammed watershed/river system in California. The North Coast Rivers provide local water supplies, spawning habitat for fisheries, and excellent sportfishing and whitewater opportunities. These rivers drain 41% of the states runoff, approximately 28.5 million acre feet of water in an average year. Russian River
headwaters are in Mendocino County, above Ukiah. Eel River
headwaters are in the Mendocino National Forest, portions are designated Wild and Scenic River. Trinity
headwaters are in the Trinity National Forest. Although the Trinity drains into the Klamath and then into the Pacific, much of its waters are diverted into the Central Valley Project. Portions are designated Wild and Scenic River. Salmon River
A tributary of the Klamath River, the Salmon begins in the Klamath National Forest. Portions are designated Wild and Scenic River. Klamath River
The Klamath is California’s second largest river, with an average annual flow of 13 million acre feet. Flows through the Klamath National Forest and Six Rivers National Forest. Scott River
Another tributary of the Klamath, with headwaters in the Russian and Marble Mountain Wilderness Areas. Portions are designated Wild and Scenic River. Smith River
The Smith River is California’s only undammed river system. It is protected in the Smith River National Recreation Area, a part of the Six Rivers National Forest. The Smith River has Wild and Scenic River Designation. |
