While rivers can be beautiful and serene, they may have a few dark, hidden secrets. Rivers can be unpredictable; unless you know what you’re dealing with, it’s better to stay safe. These are some of the most dangerous rivers out there, and for good reason.
1. Rio Grande
This river forms part of the border between the U.S. and Mexico. It’s well known for its strong currents and extreme rapids. The reason for most of the fatalities caused by this river is due to people trying to cross the river to get to the U.S. This river has tragically taken many lives, and it would be best to remain cautious when getting close to this river.
2. Salmon River
Idaho’s Salmon River is well-known for its whitewater rapids, which can be quite deadly for even the most experienced rafters. Most of the fatalities that happened in this river were amongst people who loved to take on the river on their rafts or kayaks. You might want to think twice about swimming in this river, as you can quickly get swept away by a current.
3. Rogue River
This river runs through Southern Oregon and is known for its Class IV rapids. Because of its famous rapids, it often attracts adventurers from all over, but that does come with its challenges. This river runs through rugged landscapes, which is the biggest reason why people underestimate it. The river has seen many fatalities, and it surely isn’t one to underestimate.
4. Chattooga River
If you’re looking for the most dangerous rapids in the Southeastern United States, you’ll find them right here. This river is known for its Class V rapids, and that’s what adrenaline junkies might be after in the first place. This river can be pretty dangerous, even for the most skilled thrill-seekers.
5. Klamath River
This river flows through California and Oregon, filled with Class IV-V rapids and deadly currents. This river sports icy water fed by snowmelt, making hypothermia another risk of taking on this river. Hell’s Corner is a section of rapids in the river, and that says enough.
6. American River
This dangerous river flows through Northern California, with rapids ranging from Class II to Class V. The South Fork of the American River has led to quite a few deaths on its own, making this river quite deadly.
7. Merced River
This powerful river flows through California’s Yosemite National Park and has some pretty dangerous currents, rapids, and obstacles that can’t be seen. It is often underestimated and, therefore, causes a ton of fatalities, especially due to strong currents sweeping people away.
8. Arkansas River
This treacherous river flows through Colorado, Kansas, and Arkansas with incredibly strong rapids. Certain river sections, especially the Royal Gorge and Browns Canyon, can be more challenging than others. The river is most dangerous when taken on by thrill-seekers, but things can go wrong very quickly, and a fatality can soon follow.
9. Snake River
This river is quite magnificent, but as beautiful as it is, it can be just as dangerous. It flows through the Pacific Northwest and has quite a few dams along it, too. What makes this river so dangerous is its strong currents and steep drop-offs, which can catch thrill-seekers off guard and put their lives in danger.
10. Mississippi River
This is one of the longest rivers in North America and can be home to some pretty dangerous conditions, especially during high water. Although it has some pretty scenic spots, it shouldn’t be underestimated, as it has been liable for many fatalities over the years.
11. Niagara River
This river is famous for Niagra Falls and flows through the U.S. and Canada. It has dangerously strong currents and rapids that can quickly turn into a dangerous situation. These conditions only worsen closer to the falls, and people tend to underestimate the force this river has to offer.
12. Missouri River
This magnificent river stretches across several states across the U.S. and has some pretty fast-moving water that can be deadly. It is known for having deadly rapids and even stronger currents, which have caused many fatalities over the years.
13. Colorado River
This river is seen as one of the most dangerous rivers in the United States, and for good reason. Some of the most dangerous areas of this river run through the Grand Canyon, which can have strong currents and dreadful rapids. Between 2005 and 2019, 244 fatalities were recorded in the Grand Canyon alone. Taking on this river can be more challenging than you might think.
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