The Río Claro is located outside of Molina in the Maule Region of central Chile, rising in the Andes within Radal Siete Tazas National Park and flowing northwest before eventually emptying into the Maule River. The river is roughly two to four hours south of Santiago by road, with Molina serving as the last major town for resupply before heading up the valley toward the park. Paddlers should stock up on supplies in Molina, as shops and services disappear once you leave town.

The river is characterized by deep basalt canyons carved by glacial and volcanic activity over tens of millions of years, with crystal-clear water and numerous clean waterfalls throughout. There are over seventy waterfalls documented across the various canyon sections, making it one of the most waterfall-dense paddling destinations in Chile. The canyons are extremely narrow in places, with very small eddies, which makes large groups inadvisable and escape from the gorge difficult or impossible at certain points.

The river is divided into several distinct sections. Siete Tazas (Seven Teacups) is the most accessible, consisting of seven small waterfalls with clean approaches and landings, suitable for practicing waterfall technique and boofing. It is accessed at the park entrance and requires mild rope work to enter and exit the canyon. Entre Saltos (In-between Waterfalls) lies upstream and contains the notable Garganta del Diablo, a 180-degree two-tiered drop of roughly 20 feet into another 20 feet. A mandatory portage exists between Entre Saltos and Siete Tazas where the entire river drops into a siphon. Veintidos Saltos (Twenty-Two Waterfalls) is accessed via an approximately two-kilometer hike upstream from Parque Ingles on river right, with a committing seal launch at the put-in. La Leona, an approximately 80-foot (24-meter) waterfall at the end of the canyon system, was first descended in 2018 and is considered one of the most technically demanding drops on the river.

Access to all sections requires hiking, typically around one hour, carrying boats into and out of the canyons. Physical fitness and hiking readiness are strongly recommended before attempting any section. The park is open Tuesday through Sunday and closed on Mondays. Paddlers must purchase a daily park pass online and present it to park staff upon arrival. Kayaking is permitted on many sections, and respecting park regulations is essential for maintaining future access. Spring is cited as a prime season for visiting the Claro.