The real deal runs. Some class IV with a significant amount of class V. Listed by relative toughness of the rapids, ignoring the length of the day. Some of the easier runs can feel harder due to the amount of rapids you have to run to get off before dark!
North Fork Feather River: Tobin ** Lap it during the summer release. Don’t swim.
South Fork Feather ** Fall run, not a lot of class V but lots of IV-IV+, stay focused on downstream progress.
A Wet State
Jefferson State Creeking
South Silver ** Steep not always mean hard. Portage when necessary.
A Wet State
Jefferson State Creeking
Clear Creek ** The Klamath tributary. Mostly IV-IV+ but it’s has class V feel with the gorges. A personal favorite of mine.
South Fork Salmon ** Fun day, easy to run laps on the bottom section too.
North Fork Trinity ** I’ve never done it but hear great things about a long day of IV+ that feels like a V day.
Slate Creek ** Short run with lots of bang for the buck, if you can find water in it.
Cherry Creek of the Tuolumne. ** Summer flows!
California Creeks
49-Bridgeport on the South Fork Yuba. ** Classic run, not too long. Look for 500-600 your first few times.
Golden Gate on the South Fork American ** At lower flows, 500-700. Be ready for a long day.
Some almost there, but not quite as good classics:
Wooley Creek * Beautiful scenery and some big rapids. Rather long hike in makes it one *.
Jefferson State Creeking
Hayfork Creek – Lower * Long day, some big boulder gardens. Flatwater lead in kills one *.
Fordyce Creek * Fall run, long 4wd shuttle. High Sierra feel.
In this guide I’ll start recommending some remote wilderness multi-day trips, the best part of kayaking. I suggest starting on multi-days that are half a class to a class down from what you are currently paddling. This is due to the remote nature of the runs, and the adjustment to paddling a loaded boat.
Mill Creek
Deer Creek