While beautiful and serene, rivers in the United States can also be incredibly dangerous. From fast-moving currents to treacherous rapids, many rivers have claimed lives over the years due to their unpredictable nature. Here are the top 13 most dangerous rivers in the United States, ranked by the number of fatalities, difficulty in navigation, and severity of the hazards they pose.
13. Rio Grande
The Rio Grande, which forms part of the border between the U.S. and Mexico, is known for its strong currents and hazardous rapids. Many fatalities have occurred here, particularly among those attempting to cross the river. In June 2021, a tragic incident occurred when a group of migrants lost two children and an adult when their raft overturned near Del Rio, Texas. Over the years, there have been other drownings and accidents involving both migrants and Border Patrol agents.
12. Salmon River
Idaho’s Salmon River is famous for its whitewater rapids, and it is known for being challenging even for experienced rafters. Fatalities have occurred throughout the years, including incidents where people fell from rafts or jumped into the river and drowned. In 2021, a woman tragically drowned after being thrown from her raft, and in 2016, a man died after falling from his kayak. The swift and unpredictable nature of the Salmon River makes it one of the most dangerous rivers in the country.
11. Rogue River
The Rogue River in Southern Oregon runs through rugged landscapes and is known for its Class IV rapids. Though it attracts adventurers from all over, it is a perilous river that has claimed lives over the years. In 2010, 2012, and 2016, multiple fatalities occurred. The combination of powerful rapids and dense forests makes the Rogue River a particularly dangerous place for those who underestimate its force.
10. Chattooga River
Straddling the Georgia-South Carolina border, the Chattooga River is famous for its Class V rapids, which are some of the most dangerous in the Southeastern United States. The river has seen several fatalities over the years. In 1976, a woman drowned after her raft capsized, and in 1992, a skilled kayaker died in a dangerous section of the river. Tragically, in 1996, four Boy Scouts drowned in a rafting accident. The Chattooga is known for its hazardous conditions, making it a risky destination for thrill-seekers.
9. Klamath River
The Klamath River, flowing through California and Oregon, is notorious for its challenging currents and Class IV-V rapids. The cold waters, often fed by snowmelt, contribute to the risk of hypothermia, while treacherous conditions make it difficult for rafters and kayakers to navigate safely. In 2002, three people drowned when their raft capsized in the river’s infamous Hell’s Corner rapids. The Klamath’s hazards, combined with cold water, have claimed several lives over the years.
8. American River
Flowing through Northern California, the American River is known for its rapids, which range from Class II to Class V. Unfortunately, this has led to a number of fatalities over the years. In 1997, a rafting accident claimed the lives of four people, and in 2009, a woman drowned while rescuing her dog from the river. The South Fork of the American River has also seen several tragic deaths, making it a dangerous destination for adventurers.
7. Merced River
The Merced River, located in California’s Yosemite National Park, is known for its powerful currents, frigid waters, and submerged obstacles. Drownings have been a common occurrence here, as people underestimate the force of the river. In particular, swimmers, hikers, and fishermen have been at risk of fatal accidents. The Merced’s strong currents and unpredictable conditions contribute to the dangers it poses to adventurers.
6. Arkansas River
The Arkansas River, which flows through Colorado, Kansas, and Arkansas, is known for its intense rapids. Accidents occur frequently, particularly in its more challenging sections like the Royal Gorge and Browns Canyon. Fatalities often happen when rafters or kayakers become overwhelmed by the swift currents or capsizing during high-water conditions. The river is dangerous even for experienced water sports enthusiasts.
5. Snake River
Flowing through the Pacific Northwest, the Snake River is known for its strong currents, steep drop-offs, and sometimes unpredictable weather. The river has several dams, including the massive Grand Coulee Dam. The Snake River has claimed its share of victims, with fatalities occurring from boat capsizing or falling over rapids. Its hazardous conditions make it a dangerous destination for thrill-seekers.
4. Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is one of the longest rivers in North America, and its vast, powerful currents create hazardous conditions, particularly during times of high water. Boat crashes, drownings, and capsized vessels are common. Although it’s known for its scenic beauty, the Mississippi has been responsible for numerous fatalities over the years, and its dangerous waters demand caution from anyone attempting to navigate it.
3. Niagara River
Famous for its dramatic Niagara Falls, the Niagara River, which runs between the U.S. and Canada, is one of the most dangerous rivers in the world. Its powerful flow and the intense currents near the falls create deadly conditions for those who attempt to navigate it. Over the years, the river has claimed countless lives, particularly among those who have tried to go over the falls in various devices. The sheer force of the water makes the Niagara River notoriously dangerous.
2. Missouri River
The Missouri River, stretching across several U.S. states, is known for its unpredictable currents and fast-moving waters, which make it dangerous for boaters and swimmers alike. Fatalities are common, especially in areas where the rapids and swells are particularly dangerous. The river’s powerful currents have led to capsized boats, drownings, and other deadly accidents. It remains one of the most perilous rivers in the United States.
1. Colorado River
The Colorado River is widely considered the most dangerous river in the United States due to its powerful rapids and unpredictable currents, especially within the Grand Canyon. Between 2005 and 2019, 244 fatalities were recorded in the Grand Canyon alone. The Colorado River’s dangerous conditions have caused boat crashes and tragic accidents over the years. The rapids, combined with the river’s rugged environment, make it the most hazardous river in the U.S.
Stay connected with us for more stories like this! Follow us to get the latest updates or hit the Follow button at the top of this article, and let us know what you think by leaving your feedback below. We’d love to hear from you!
