Rafting

Guided Family Rafting trips on Oregon and California rivers including: the Upper McKenzie River, Owyhee Rivrer, Deschutes River, Upper Klamath River including the "New Klamath" Copco (Kikaceki) valley, Wards (Kikaceki) canyon, and Iron Gate (Kucascas) valley, the lower Klamath and the California Salmon river.


High Country Expeditions offers whitewater river rafting and adventure trips on these wild & scenic rivers: Oregon's McKenzie River, Owyhee Rivrer, Deschutes River, Upper Klamath River including the "New Klamath" Copco (Kikaceki) valley, Wards (Kikaceki) canyon, and Iron Gate (Kucascas) valley, the lower Klamath and the California Salmon river.


OREGON WHITEWATER RIVER RAFTING, McKenzie River rafting, Upper Klamath whitewater Rafting, Rogue river rafting, California Salmon Whitewater Rafting

- River sections of class I-III+ rapids

Enjoy the splendor & excitement of a McKenzie River rafting trip!


McKenzie River Rafting Overview

The McKenzie River, our home and backyard river, is one of the treasures of the Pacific Northwest. This Oregon gem is a classic alpine river high in the Cascade Range, with its headwaters located at Clear Lake. Cascading through a canyon blanketed in Douglas fir and old growth forest, this river is a crystal clear jewel with an abundance of dancing rapids. Its rich history and spectacular scenery make it one of the finest all-around rivers in Oregon. From picturesque waterfalls to stunning views of snow-capped mountains, this river is a fly-fishing and whitewater river rafting enthusiast’s paradise.

High Country Expeditions offers rafting trip excursions on the majority of the McKenzie River. McKenzie river rafting trips are offered within 50 minutes from Eugene & Sisters/Bend Oregon
To better suit our clients needs we have broken the river down into two main rafting sections: the upper portion, which begins at Olallie campground and ends at Blue River boat ramp, and the lower potion, which begins at Blue River boat ramp and ends at Thompson Lane.

Our McKenzie River Rafting trips begin at the 2 highest possible access points. These are the only launches located in the protected and designated "wild & scenic" raft-able section of the McKenzie River. This area located below Olallie and Frissell boat launch are by far the most pristine, beautiful and exciting portions of the river. When booking your rafting trips, ask if you will be experiencing the sections above Paradise campground.

During the summer months we offer 3 primary McKenzie river trips assuring a perfect river based adventure. Our 1/2 day 14 mile rafting trips are offered twice a day.  Once at 9:15am and again at 1:15pm.  Our full day 22 mile rafting adventures which offer an extraordinary river side lunch served by your guides.  This trip meets at 9:15am, return times vary since it's your day on the river but tend to return between 3:45pm and 4:30pm.

Spring river trips, generally before memorial day and Fall adventures after labor day we condense our 1/2 day trips to a mid-day adventure meeting at 11:15am, full day trips still meet at 9:20am this time of year.

We guarantee that our McKenzie river rafting adventures are the finest and most complete from an outfitting and enjoyment perspective, as well as one of the lowest priced. The reason High Country can offer such great deals on our McKenzie River Whitewater rafting and scenic river trips, is that we are based here, and this is our "back yard". With this advantage we are able to greatly cut our travel expenses and pass that saving directly on to you, our guest.

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Deschutes River Rafting: Explore Our Exciting Day and Multi-Day Trips

Join us for an unforgettable adventure on the Deschutes River, where you can choose from thrilling one-day rafting excursions or remarkable three-day trips. Experience the breathtaking Wild & Scenic section, filled with splashy rapids that are perfect for families and non-swimmers alike.

During your journey, float through stunning red canyons, shaped by volcanic rock and flanked by towering basalt cliffs that rise over 2,500 feet. Discover the historical significance of this river, once traveled by Native Americans and Oregon Trail pioneers for thousands of years.

Fishing enthusiasts will delight in some of the best fly fishing in the Pacific Northwest, with opportunities to target native trout and the elusive steelhead right from the riverbanks. Birdwatchers will be enchanted by the chance to spot osprey, bald eagles, kingfishers, beavers, and otters as you drift along.

With nearly 300 sunny days each year, the Deschutes River provides an ideal setting for a beautiful day on the water!

Nestled southeast of the majestic volcanic Mount Hood, the Lower Deschutes River is a premier playground for adventure seekers, celebrated for its whitewater rafting, fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Originating in the Cascades, it is one of the largest spring-fed rivers in the United States, flowing northward for 252 miles before meeting the Columbia River and eventually the Pacific Ocean.

Designated as a National Wild and Scenic River in 1988, the Deschutes is renowned for its exceptional geology, rich cultural history, and diverse plant, wildlife, and fish species. The river descends over 1,000 feet to merge with the Columbia River, winding through awe-inspiring canyons carved from volcanic basalt. Vertical cliffs and wide talus slopes frame the whitewater, which features numerous caves and breathtaking vistas.

High Country Expeditions offers an array of rafting trips on the Deschutes River, starting in Maupin, Oregon. Our exciting section of the river caters to all skill levels and is ideal for families, including children aged 7 and older, as well as non-swimmers.

For those seeking a longer adventure, our three-day rafting trips are a fantastic way to bond with family and friends while immersing yourself in the stunning beauty of this incredible river. Unsure which section suits your group? We offer excursions on two segments of the river: one beginning near Bend, OR, and ending in Maupin, and the other flowing from Maupin to the mouth of the Columbia River. Feel free to reach out for assistance in choosing the best option for your adventure!


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Class II & III

Lower Klamath River Rafting.

Come explore & raft the splendors of Northern California & home of Bigfoot with us.

Known for its breathtaking beauty, diverse wildlife, and abundance of recreational activities, the Klamath River was among the first rivers in California to receive National “Wild and Scenic River” designation. Popular for its opportunities for rafting and fishing, this hidden gem in Northern California boasts the second longest river system in the state. Meandering through the rugged terrain of the Klamath-Siskiyou eco-region also known as the Klamath knot, the river offers thrilling whitewater, stunning mountain views, and a chance to explore one of the best hiking spots in California. With its warm waters, abundant wildlife, and remote location, the Lower Klamath is a favorite for families and groups seeking a unique outdoor adventure.

As the Lower Klamath flows westward, the surroundings become more lush and picturesque, with side streams and rivers adding to its beauty. Our journey takes us through the most scenic and secluded stretches of the river, including a visit to the enchanting Ukonom Falls, perfect for a refreshing swim or a relaxing sunbath on the rocks. Our deluxe camping setup and gourmet meals ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all. Evenings are spent under the starry sky, away from the distractions of city lights, with the majestic Klamath Mountains as our backdrop.

Our 2 and 3-day Lower Klamath trips are designed with families in mind, but we can easily customize the itinerary and activities to suit a variety of groups. History buffs will appreciate the rich heritage of the region, with remnants of old mining sites dotting the riverbanks. Kids can try their hand at gold panning, while adults can unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Our goal is to create a memorable and educational experience for all, fostering a love for the outdoors and a sense of adventure in every member of the group.


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Description:

Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling whitewater of the Wild and Scenic California Salmon River on our exclusive 2-3 & 4 Day California Salmon Expedition! Often overlooked even within the state, the California Salmon is acclaimed for being one of the finest Class IV/V whitewater rafting destinations in the country. This trip has become a beloved favorite among our guests, combining lush coastal scenery with an intimate granite gorge, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant emerald waters. Our comfortable base camp, complete with hot showers, wood heated warming and dinner tent ensures an unforgettable "glamping" experience amidst thrilling Class IV-V rapids.

When to Go
April – May (depending on snow-pack some years we'll go into early June)

Difficulty
Sections to choose from; Class 2 to 3, Class 3-4 & Class 4-5

Trip length
Approximately 8-14 river miles per day

Price

Rates depend on trip length; 2 day $750pp, 3 day $1050, 4 day $1300

**Rates do not include USFS / BLM federal land use fees and carbon tax (these equate to roughly $30)

- Class II-III & IV / IV-V


Thrilling Whitewater Rafting Trips on California's Salmon River!

The Northwest's Premier Class V Whitewater River

The California Salmon River is one of the Northwest’s premier class 4 / 5 spring river rafting runs. This challenging and beautiful river offers class V whitewater rafting, plunging through a narrow steep-walled gorge of glistening marble and granite. The California Salmon flows out of the Marble Mountain and Salmon-Trinity Wilderness Areas down into the Klamath National Forest, offering amazing whitewater rafting adventures.

The Ultimate Whitewater Trips on the Salmon River!

High Country Expeditions offers two, three & four day trips on this river. Generally, the first day of multi-day trips is on the lower run flowing through a magnificent gorge with waterfalls gracing the marbled granite cliffs. This run starts with class III and IV rapids preparing us for the highlight, class IV+ Gaping Maw. This lower section is filled with amazing continues  whitewater, but is only just a prelude of what’s to come on the infamous Nordheimer Gorge upriver.

The upper run through the Nordheimer Gorge (the second or third day of multi-day trips) is a continuum Marblewall lined canyon of raftable waterfalls with long turbulent fun rapids, somersaulting waves, and plenty of boulders to maneuver around. The run begins immediately with class IV+ rapids such as Bloomer’s Falls, Lewis Creek Falls, and Airplane Turn. Along the way you’ll also be challenged with the rapids Achilles Heel and Whirling Dervish. The thrills continue with the class IV+ Cascade Falls, Last Chance, and the grand finale of class V Freight Train.

High Country Expeditions does recommend previous paddling experience. Although this river may seem extremely challenging, it is very family friendly. With the various choices of river sections to raft, the California Salmon River does have something for everyone! We do have a 14 yr age requirement on the California Salmon, but you are offered a choice when it comes to which section to raft, from a class 2-3 section, to a class 3-4 section or the class 5 section. The class 5 section over the years has been downgraded by our guides due to the number of trips they have guided there. Your guides may also decide on which river section to raft depending on a variety of factors such as; the water levels, weather, client group make up and such. As always safety and your enjoyment are our number one concern on every excursion! Our trips are conducted on paddle rafts, as well as stern assist paddle raft configurations.


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General overview

Often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Oregon,” the Owyhee River presents a captivating scenery with towering cliffs and a 3,000-foot relief. Encompassing a vast two million acres, the Owyhee Canyonlands offer an extensive and pristine wilderness for exploration. The river rafting expedition unveils remarkable views of red-rock spires in Honeycombs, Chalk Basin, and Leslie Gulch, complemented by historic petroglyphs providing insights into the area’s cultural history.

The arid landscape, devoid of inhabitants and vegetation, adds to the mystique. The steep cliffs and narrow canyon create a captivating experience for those exploring the region.

Hot Springs

There are several hot springs along the river to soak in during the trip including Echo Rock Hot Springs, Snively Rock Hot Springs, Greely Hot Springs and Three Forks Hot Springs. Many of them are primitive with mud bottoms and varying in size. A few are located right on the banks of the river while most we will need to hike a bit to get to – we try to explore as many hot springs as possible during the trip depending on timing, weather, and river conditions.

All or part of this operation is conducted on public lands under special permit from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.

Highlights

Known as the “Grand Canyon of Oregon” with breathtaking towering cliffs and 3,000 ft relief

Option to stop and soak in multiple hot springs along the river

Experience the Owyhee Canyonlands which stretch across more than two million acres

Raft the Wild & Scenic River section

Very remote, wild and untouched

View red-rock spires Honeycombs, Chalk Basin, and Leslie Gulch

Historic petroglyphs

Noted as one of the least tainted by light pollution in the lower 48, this region is a hallmark for stargazing.

Explore the Birch Creek Historic Ranch post-trip at our takeout point.


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Rafting Trips