(Photo: Amargosa River, (c) Bill Christian / The Nature Conservancy)
What makes the best summer vacations or a Labor Day escape? Rivers. Swimming, fishing, napping on a shady riverbank--there's no better getaway. Fortunately, dozens of jaw-droppingly beautiful rivers run through the Golden State.
But which are the most uniquely Californian? Those that have the highest number of freshwater plants and animals, found nowhere else on Earth but here. From our Santa Ana three-spine stickleback to the California fairy shrimp, California's rivers are home to a wildly diverse collection of native plants, insects and fish unique to our state.
Just in time for a last summer holiday, The Nature Conservancy's scientists compiled a list of the top ten uniquely California rivers. So get packing and experience the natural beauty that sets California apart:
- TUOLUMNE RIVER--Stanislaus, Tuolumne and Mariposa Counties
Designated a National Wild and Scenic River, the majestic Tuolumne begins at 13,000 feet in Yosemite National Park, winding through picture-perfect Tuolumne Meadows and providing world-class recreational opportunities from fishing to hiking for people of all ages and abilities.
LOWER SACRAMENTO RIVER--Yolo, Sacramento and Solano CountiesSome say it's the best fishing in the state; some say it's the incomparable birding; while others vocally defend it as having the very best picnic spots. Winding its way south from Redding, the
Lower Sacramento River winds through gentle river terraces, sheer canyon walls and rolling oak woodlands, providing something for everyone.
SANTA ANA RIVER--San Bernardino, Riverside, Los Angeles and Orange CountiesSouthern California's largest river, the Santa Ana flows through incredibly diverse terrain from alpine mountain peaks to arid plains and deserts. Bordering the river for more than 70 miles is the
Santa Ana River Bicycle Trail that when finished will run through three counties, 17 cities and two national forests.
CACHE CREEK/CLEAR LAKE--Lake CountyCache Creek flows into
Clear Lake with more than 100 miles of shoreline and geothermal hot springs, making it a haven for outdoor recreation. Grab a paddle or a rod--boating, paddle sports and fishing are some of the most popular activities on the lake.
LOWER PIT RIVER--Shasta CountyDescribed as the finest naturally occurring wild trout fishery in California, this renowned fly-fishing destination has a wealth of pools, pockets, runs and riffles. Located in the northeast corner of the state, the Lower Pit flows into Shasta Lake.
LOST RIVER--Modoc and Siskiyou CountiesLost River begins and ends in a closed basin in northern California and southwestern Oregon. This idyllic, 60-mile-long river winds through forests, meadows and fields, providing the perfect summer escape.
What to look for: Shortnose sucker and Klamath pebblesnail
OWENS RIVER--Mono and Inyo CountiesThe history-rich Owens River flows in one of the deepest valleys in America and stretches for 183 miles. This now free-flowing river is teeming with wildlife, making it a true haven for birders and nature lovers.
SAN FRANCISCO BAY SOUTHERN STREAMS--Alameda, San Mateo, San Francisco and a portion of Santa Clara CountiesThe many southern streams and creeks that feed San Francisco Bay are popular recreation spots. From the San Mateo Creek, which flows into Crystal Springs, to Coyote Creek, these waterways are rich with unusual aquatic wildlife.
UPPER KLAMATH RIVERA whitewater rafter's dream, this river begins in Oregon's High Cascades and runs across the border, emptying into the Pacific Ocean 16 miles south of California's Crescent City. A stunning spot for a summer vacation, the river is prized by fishermen.
What to look for: Blue chub and Scale lanx
AMARGOSA RIVERIn a climate that is far too hot in the summer, the
is a winter oasis...literally. Springing from the high desert above Las Vegas, it disappears underground until it reaches the Amargosa Canyon near
, where it rises to the surface, creating a vibrant green swath amidst the stark desert beauty.
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