Best Wintertime Whitewater in California

by Greg Israel
(Willits, CA)

Whitewater Rafting in Monterey County

Just north of Willits CA. Taking hiway 101 north to hiway 162.

I've found that this section of the Eel River is just right for a short day whitewater rafting trip. The winter outside air temp. and water temp. are mild all winter, still requiring a wet suit to be worn to stay comfortable.

This is a 3 hour class III raft or kayak trip. Starting 8 miles off of 101 Outlett Cr. and the Main Eel come together at a bridge. This is the Eight Mile or sometimes called Legal Bridge. Floating from south to north and getting off of the water just before the tiny town of Dos Rios.

On my last trip a golden Eagle flew overhead. I've also seen Bald eagle, Osprey and River Otter.

For California's longest wilderness raft trip, you could continue on from the town of Dos Rios another 47 miles and take out up north at Alderpoint.

Rubicon Whitewater is the only rafting company offering trips on these sections of the Eel River. Greg Israel can be reached for trips or information about the Eel by calling 707-367-3299.

After a day rafting you can return to Willits for an afternoon bike ride around Willits Valley or go mountain biking on one of the many trails up in Brooktrails, which is just to the west of Willits off of Sherwood Rd.

You can drive west on hiway 20 to Fort Bragg and catch a ride on the Skunk Train up into the Redwoods for the day.

Relax at one of the local hot springs or go wine tasting at one of the many wineries in Mendocino county.

I've found that I can play outside almost all winter long in Mendocino County.