Oregon’s many rivers encourage whitewater rafting. River rafting trips range from half-day thrill rides to multi-day adventures that showcase Oregon’s white sandy riverside beaches, deep gorges, sparkling clear water, desert canyons, fragrant pine forests and abundant wildlife – bighorn sheep, otters, bears, deer, bald and golden eagles, osprey and heron. Organized tours with rafting guides and companies include accommodations and meals.
Rogue River and North Umpqua River Rafting
In the southwest corner of Oregon near Grants Pass, the Rogue River offers class III to IV moderate rapids for beginning to seasoned rafters. The Rogue River boasts wilderness areas that include forested canyons, cascading side streams, fern-shrouded grottoes, salmon and steelhead fishing. The Rogue’s 33-mile-long wild section is popular, so the best bet for rafting this area is to book with an outfitter (such as Oregon River Experiences or Wet Planet Whitewater).
The North Umpqua River, in southwest Oregon near Roseburg and north of Crater Lake, offers many class III to IV rapids. Designated a state and federal scenic waterway, the North Umpqua winds through a narrow, forested gorge. Fishermen appreciate its waters near Steamboat Creek for prime fishing. Oregon Whitewater Adventures and Oregon River Experiences offer whitewater rafting trips complete with meals and accommodations.
Deschutes River and John Day River Rafting
In central Oregon, the Deschutes River cuts through the desert on its way north to join the Columbia River near The Dalles. Whitewater rapids up to class IV offer trips for families and experienced rafters on this popular river. Sunny canyons, cool pools for swimming, mountain views and riverside meals are featured on Deschutes multi-day trips with Oregon Whitewater Adventures, River Drifters and Oregon River Experiences. Camp along the river or stay in a yurt nearby.
The John Day River in north-central Oregon is the state’s longest river, offering gentler whitewater rafting through grand scenery. Its mild class I to III rapids run through ranch country near the Blue Mountains and semi-arid canyon land. Basalt formations and bluffs, Indian petroglyphs and bird watching are features on Oregon Whitewater Adventures and Oregon River Experiences multi-day trips.
Owyhee Rivers and Grande Ronde River Rafting
The Middle and Lower Owyhee Rivers offer dramatic whitewater class III to V rapids that cut through the rugged, high-desert wilderness of southeast Oregon. Known as Oregon’s “Grand Canyon,” the Owyhee is surrounded by towering spires, multi-colored rock formations and deep canyons. Wildlife from bighorn sheep and antelope to peregrine falcon and eagles, Indian pictographs and hot springs are a few of the highlights of multi-day rafting trips with Oregon Whitewater Adventures, River Drifters and Oregon River Experiences.
The Grande Ronde River in Oregon’s northeast corner offers mild class II whitewater rafting that’s perfect for families. Fishing, wildlife viewing and mountain scenery, as well as camping in meadows of wildflowers and pine trees are available on multi-day trips with Oregon River Experiences, Oregon Whitewater Adventures and River Odysseys West.
Oregon whitewater rafting offers adventure vacations for families and singles on scenic rivers. See wildlife and rock formations along the rolling river. Swim, hike, fish and camp along the way. Idaho and Montana also offer exciting whitewater rafting adventure vacations.
Susan Lynne Hamilton - Award-winning writer Susan Lynne Hamilton is the Topic Editor of Suite 101's Northwest U.S. travel section, showcasing its rich ...
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