Russian River
About
From the Mendocino County headwaters to its Pacific outlet at Jenner, the Russian River flows 110 miles through Sonoma and Mendocino counties at an average of 850 CFS. The Pomo people called it Shabakai before Russian fur traders gave it its current name. The upper reach from Ukiah to Hopland runs Class I through vineyard country and pastoral valley, while the Alexander Valley section between Healdsburg and Guerneville offers the classic summer float with occasional Class II features. Below Guerneville, the lower Russian cuts through redwood canyon for its final push to the sea. Optimal flows range from 200 to 1500 CFS on gauge 11464000, though summer releases from upstream dams keep it floatable when coastal streams go dry. The Russian River Watershed Association coordinates restoration efforts, including the 2019 salmon recovery initiative that targets spawning habitat in tributaries. California designated it a Heritage River, recognizing both its agricultural importance to Sonoma County and its role as the region's primary steelhead corridor.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.