Maqlaqs Paddle

Our Vision: to build a future where our mukluks feel confident, connected, and capable—on the water and in our communities.

Maqlaqs Paddle is an Indigenous‑led nonprofit dedicated to reconnecting Klamath, Modoc, and Numu youth—and other river‑based Indigenous peoples—to their ancestral waterways through culturally grounded paddlesports. Our mission is to restore relationships between people and river by providing accessible, community‑centered programming in whitewater kayaking, recreational kayaking, expedition paddling, canoeing, rafting, and packrafting. We believe that time on the water strengthens identity, builds confidence, and nurtures the next generation of river protectors.

Our Rivers. Our Guides. Our Future

Become a River Guide for Maqlaqs Paddle

Join us and help bring our people safely back to the rivers.

Maqlaqs Paddle is building a team of Indigenous river guides to support youth, families, and community paddling programs across the Klamath Basin. Guides help create safe, culturally grounded experiences on the water while carrying forward our relationships with the river.

What Guides Learn

  • River safety & rescue basics

  • Whitewater paddling skills

  • Trip planning & group support

  • Reading water (Class I–III)

  • Cultural interpretation & stewardship

Who Should Sign Up  

Tribal adults and older teens interested in learning to guide, supporting community programs, and strengthening cultural relationships to water.

We are calling on Klamath, Modoc, and Numu adults to reconnect with our homelands and lead our people safely back to the water.

Want to become a river guide? Maqlaqs Paddle will:
✅ Pay for your ACA certifications
✅ Provide all the gear you need
✅ Pay you to guide trips on our home waters
All skill levels welcome — the only requirement is being 18+.

If you’d like to be considered for future guide training, please complete this interest form: https://forms.gle/Nq4qeTNiCooNGsJN8


Paddle Our Homelands

Reconnecting Klamath, Modoc, and Numu Peoples with the Waters of the Basin

Reconnecting Rivers, Restoring Spirits

Outings on Upper Klamath Lake, Wood River, Sprague River, Williamson River & Link River

Join us for paddling adventures across the waterways of the Ewiksiknii and Modoknii lands. Each outing includes a 2–3 hour paddle and gear-up session, designed for families, youth, and paddlers of all skill levels.

Whether you’re gliding across the open waters of Upper Klamath Lake, winding through the serene Wood River, exploring the gentle currents of the Sprague River, immersing yourself in the beauty of the Williamson River, or experiencing the flow of the Link River, every trip offers a unique perspective on our homelands.

What to Pack for Your Day Paddle

  • Comfortable, quick-dry clothing

  • Water shoes or sandals with straps

  • Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

  • Refillable water bottle & snacks

  • Light rain jacket (weather can change quickly)

  • Towel & change of clothes for after paddling

  • Personal medications or essentials

All paddling gear (boats, paddles, life jackets) is provided.

What to Expect

  • Gear-up session: We’ll fit you with the right equipment and review safety basics.

  • Small group paddling: Outings are designed to be relaxed and family-friendly.

  • Scenic exploration: Expect wildlife sightings, peaceful waters, and stunning views.

  • Safety focus: Instructors emphasize skills like wet exits and rescues so everyone feels confident on the water.

  • Flexible attendance: Outings are open sessions — you can join solo or with family.

Maqlaqs Paddle Paddle Outings

Choosing a Paddle Location

No matter your choice, each outing includes a gear‑up session, safety instruction, and a focus on wet exits and rescues so every paddler feels confident on the water.

Family‑Friendly & Beginner

  • Wood River (4 miles, 2–3 hrs)
    Calm waters and gentle navigation make this an ideal first paddle. Returning to the headwaters at Kimball Park connects us to the springs that have nourished our people for generations.

  • Sprague River (3 miles, 2–3 hrs)
    Gentle riffles and easy flow provide a relaxed introduction to river paddling. The confluence of the Williamson has long been a gathering place for our peoples. Sites we will paddle through are traditional fishing grounds, the origin of the cwaam and the stories of salmon returning.

Wildlife & Scenic Exploration

  • Williamson River (3 miles, 2–3 hrs)
    Flowing through the confluence of the Sprague and Williamson River, we would paddle through significant Ewiksiknii sites and behind the Kla-Mo-Ya Casino. Calm introductory paddle to build confidence in moving water. 

  • Buck Island – Upper Klamath Lake (10 miles, 3–5 hrs)
    Paddle across open water to Buck Island for a shared meal. The lake is the lifeline for our cwaam and koptu, and Ewiksiknii peoples. Returning to the lake honors our past generations who lived and thrived along its shores, and restores our spirits to the water.

Thrill‑Seekers & Whitewater

  • Link River (2 miles, 20 min–1 hr)
    A short but lively paddle with class II–III rapids, right in Klamath Falls. Experienced paddlers may run “The Falls,” a class IV rapid at certain levels.This river connects Upper Klamath Lake to Lake Ewauna, reminding us of the pathways our fish and people have always traveled, paddling through a significant settlement of Ewiksiknii and Modoknii peoples.

Overview of the Largest Dam Removal in History

Checklist for Going Out on the Land & Water

Always Bring

  • Water & nourishing snacks

  • Weather‑appropriate clothing (layers, rain jacket, sun protection)

  • Sturdy footwear (sandals with straps or water shoes)

  • Safety gear: life jacket, whistle, first aid kit

  • Navigation tools: map, compass, or GPS

  • Communication device (phone or radio, if service is available)

  • Personal essentials: medications, towel, change of clothes

  • Respect items: tobacco, sage, or other offerings meaningful to you

 Safety Suggestions

  • Paddle or travel with a partner when possible

  • Share your plan and return time with someone you trust

  • Check weather and water conditions before heading out

  • Wear your life jacket at all times on the water

  • Practice wet exits and rescues regularly

  • Carry extra layers and emergency supplies

  • Respect wildlife — observe from a distance, never disturb nests or habitats

Go Out in a Good Heart

  • Begin your journey with gratitude and intention

  • Move with respect for the land, water, and all beings

  • Remember you are a guest on ancestral homelands — tread lightly

  • Give back to the place:

    • Offer a prayer, song, or moment of silence

    • Leave an offering (tobacco, sage, or other traditional gift)

    • Care for the space (pick up litter, tend respectfully)

  • Carry the mindset that you are not only taking from the land, but also giving back to it

 Preparedness keeps us safe. Respect keeps us connected. Together, they ensure our spirits and homelands thrive.

Get on the Water with Us

Interested in joining an outing? Or just want to use gear for your own paddle?
Reach out to us at:
Email: info@maqlaqspaddle.org | Phone: 541-591-4308

We’ll help you get on the water or arrange gear for your paddle