Few
places in America present outdoor enthusiasts more excitement and variety than
beautiful Southern Oregon. Whitewater rafting on Oregon's Wild & Scenic Rivers
offers breathtaking scenery, abundant forests and waterfalls, and a full range
of mild to expert trips.The
area is rich in Western history with old cabins, mines, and long-deserted Indian
settlements dotting many runs. Wildlife is abundant, making sightings of bald
eagles, osprey and blue herons regular occurrences.
With
many experienced, well-trained and skilled river guides, there's a trip to suit
everyone's needs. Full-day, half-day and multi-day trips that include lodging
and meals are just some of the many options.
The
Rogue River offers class II to IV rapids and deep canyons cut through thick
forests.
Rogue
River rafting is easily accessible from a broad range of locations, this is the
classic river experience. The rapids on the Rogue River are not difficult for
modern rafts, so people looking for a mellow river trip with the occasional rapid
will be very happy. Those looking for some excitement can take down an inflatable
kayak or "duckie" and navigate the river with their own skill.
The
Upper Klamath River offers an exciting whitewater rafting adventure, with
many full-day rafting trips and other packets. In a steep wilderness canyon cutting
through the Southern Oregon Cascades, this is one of the most exciting class IV
trips in Oregon. More than 30 major class III to class IV stretches, with long
drops and short charges, all through a beautiful high-desert canyon.
The
Lower Klamath River is a great option for less experienced rafters, since
there are many mild sections situated close to easy access points. A rafting trip
down the Lower Klamath makes a great trip-whether half-day or multi-day.
Class
II runs are also common for those seeking a little more adventure. Pilot an inflatable
kayak, and check out the "Otter's playpen" stretch.
The
Umpqua River sports more rapids per mile than many runs. Numerous class
III and III+ rapids are found in the most commonly rafted stretch, with a handful
of class IV rapids sprinkled throughout the run. The North Umpqua flows
through lovely, thickly forested, steep-walled canyons and its sparkling clear
water is famous. This exceptional whitewater rafting waterway is located in Oregon's
southern Cascade mountains, between Crater Lake and Roseburg, and is regarded
by many as one of the finest white water rafting rivers in the U.S.
