White Water Rafting Portland is riding on a raft through rapids in a fast-flowing river. Is white water rafting fun? Well, Whitewater rafting is super fun. It’s pretty addictive. The raging rapids, the unexpected twists and turns, the exhilarating cries, it’s exciting! Late May to June, springtime snowmelt flows make for the best time for water rafting season for whitewater, with cooler river temperatures and fewer crowds, from late May to late June.
Many people who visit Oregon spend most of their time in or near Portland. Portland is the starting point for trips to the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood. In addition, it provides many fantastic rafting adventures on the Clackamas, White Salmon, Sandy, Deschutes Rivers, and many others.
At these whitewater rafting spots near Portland, you’ll tackle rapids, see wildlife, and experience nature in a whole new manner.
The White river rafting adventures listed below are some of the most popular in Portland. In addition, many of these river trip options will take you to some of the state’s most popular sites, such as Mt Hood, Multnomah Falls, Timberline Lodge, and the Columbia River Gorge’s varied hikes and vineyards. So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
How Many Classes of White Water Rafting are there?
In white water rafting, there are six levels of river difficulty. Therefore, when rafting or kayaking on whitewater rapids, it is critical to understand what to expect from the river.
All whitewater rapids are rated on a scale of I to VI to clarify and simplify the process. In addition, the rapids are rated according to their difficulty and danger.
Best White Water Rafting Portland Oregon
Before you go in, make sure you know what you’re doing. The amount of knowledge might mean the difference between life and death.
Here are the 9 best White Water Rafting Portland with a solid selection of skilled guides. White water rafting in Oregon is calling your name.
- The Upper Klamath River Rafting
- The Owyhee River Rafting
- The Rogue River Rafting
- The Upper Clackamas River Rafting
- North Santiam River for Thrills and Chills
- The McKenzie River Rafting
- The Deschutes River Rafting in Oregon
- Lower Clackamas River Rafting
- White Salmon River Rafting
1. The Upper Klamath River Rafting
This is my personal favorite. My pulse raced the first time I saw the Upper Klamath from the ridge. After the hour-and-a-half picturesque journey from Ashland through Green Springs Mountain, I was eager to get on the water. It was my first voyage on this stretch of river.
The route begins at the Boyle Powerhouse Dam in Oregon and concludes in California. Aside from the adrenaline-pumping water, the scenery is breathtaking, with wildlife aplenty and the occasional abandoned mine, deserted cottage, or long-gone Indian settlement.
This was an incredible experience! Arden, my river guide, was the coolest. I had a fantastic time. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that was well worth every penny!
Exact Location:
The Klamath River is in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Its watershed drains to the Pacific from northern California and south-central Oregon. Portland is 291 miles (468 kilometers) away.
What to Expect Here:
The Upper Klamath has established a reputation as Oregon’s best summer whitewater, with massive waves, tremendous drops, and rapids that continue beyond sight. And rightly so: the rapids are famous in every way. But, as the river flows west, it comes into contact with the Cascade Mountain Range, and the immovable object meets the unstoppable force.
The whitewater is at an all-time high here. Rafts race downriver through a series of Class IV and IV+ rapids. There are more significant rivers and bigger rapids, but only one Upper Klamath – a river that never stops moving with nonstop action.
If you’re looking for whitewater, there’s no need to explore any further: The Upper Klamath is the king of whitewater and a trip you’ll never forget.
2. The Owyhee River Rafting
The Owyhee River, which flows through Idaho and Oregon, is one of the most beautiful desert rivers in the United States. The Owyhee River, a tributary of the Snake River, rises in Nevada and runs north and west through Idaho and Oregon before emptying into the Snake.
The Owyhee passes through one of the least-populated areas of the lower 48 states, and its varied environment and steep canyons make it a popular tourist destination.
This is a simple river to navigate on your own, but guided trips lasting three to ten days are at the top of the Oregon white water rafting food chain in terms of sheer beauty and majesty.
Exact Location:
The Owyhee River Wilderness is located in southwest Idaho, near the Oregon border, and is centered on the Owyhee River and its tributaries. It is around 350 air miles southeast of Portland.
What to Expect Here:
You’ll see pictographs and other evidence of aboriginal tribes on the canyon walls as you make your way downriver. See how many of the more than 100 bird species that dwell in the area you can recognize. Later, from your tent, you can gaze out over the river through a massive rock canopy.
The Owyhee River will delight all of your senses, from the bright sunflower-like Arrowleaf Balsamroot to the aromatic perfume of sage in the wind after a light shower to basking in scorching hot springs while watching a stunning sunset.
This is a shorter run, but it has a more significant bump with IV and IV+ rapids that will leave you out of breath. The names are self-explanatory: Widowmaker, Bombshelter Drop, Raft Flip, and Shark’s Tooth. Or the rapids Ledge, Subtle Hole, and Half Mile, all of which have a story to tell. Row Adventures is well-versed in the area.
3. The Rogue River Rafting
The Rogue River rafting experience is unlike any other in the United States. Because of the magnificent landscape, rapids, wildlife, and riverside resorts, the Rogue River in Southern Oregon are one of America’s top whitewater rafting and kayaking destinations. Rafting tours on the Rogue River can last anything from four hours to four days, allowing everyone to discover the proper vacation.
ROW’s Oregon rafting trip takes place on the most spectacular portion of the river, which flows from the Cascade Mountains to the Pacific Ocean and runs through the heart of the Rogue River Wilderness.
The Rogue is the ideal natural playground for the ultimate whitewater rafting experience, with fun, moderate rapids, warm water, and a green-forested canyon. To top it all off, you spend each night at an isolated riverbank lodge, where you get your room with a private bathroom.
Exact Location:
The Rogue River begins in the Cascades and runs to the Pacific in Southern Oregon. Portland to Rogue River is 214.71 miles away in the south and 253 miles (407.16 kilometers) away in the north, along the I-5 S route. If you drive nonstop, the distance between Portland to Rogue River is 4 hours and 3 minutes.
What to Expect Here:
When you’re relaxing between the exciting class II rapids, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. While you’re here, they will get you ready for your trip. Following that, please take some time to unwind at the Torpedo Bar, a family-friendly spot to round up your trip.
There are several large holes, such as the Class IV Nugget Falls or what appears to be an impossible feat — inching out and then plunging 10 feet over the Powerhouse spillway. Inflatable kayaks are extremely popular for short journeys, and they are especially suitable for children and teenagers. The titles of famous rapids such as ‘Ol Slippery Rock,’ ‘The Surf Wave,’ and ‘Bitterman Falls’ are pretty descriptive of the action.
4. The Upper Clackamas River Rafting
The Clackamas is one of Oregon’s top white water rivers, and it is easily accessible from everywhere in the Portland metro region. Lush old-growth woods flank the canyon’s bank, reflecting off the crystal-clear river.
The Clackamas River has many rapids, beautiful scenery, Rocky Mountain Elk, pine martens, osprey, bald eagles, and even the northern spotted owl! Thanks to its rich and luxuriant riverfront riparian flora, this river is a woodland jewel!
It was one of the best rafting trips we have taken. The boats were of the highest quality we had ever seen. We enjoyed seeing how the guides and boats interacted with one another. The Clackamas is a beautiful river. The rapids and surroundings were spectacular, and we learned a lot about the local history from Chris. I can’t wait to go back there.
Exact Location:
In a nutshell, it is located 17 miles upriver of Estacada, Oregon. It’s about an hour’s drive from Portland. Turn left on Hwy-211 (towards Estacada) from Sandy until it intersects with Hwy-224 at Eagle Creek.
What to Expect Here:
Our full-day journey begins with a scenic drive along the Clackamas River, where most folks are wide-eyed at the prospect of what the day holds. The trip starts with a thorough paddling, safety, and river history lesson, and then it’s time to tackle the rapids! But, first, there is a little warm-up before our first major rapid, Powerhouse (class III+).
From there, we’ll kayak through endless rapids while soaking in the breathtaking surroundings. We’ll stop a little more than midway for a much-needed break and a delicious meal. After lunch, some of the day’s best and most famous rapids await. Finally, the journey comes to an end at Moore Creek, OR, where your automobiles are conveniently parked.
The gorgeous six-mile top stretch of the run is one of the many benefits of the full-day excursion (aside from the higher water and heavier surf). In addition, this segment has more remote water, more opportunities to observe wildlife, and more extensive and challenging rapids!
If you’re short on time and want to have a nice river trip without spending the entire day on the river, our half-day tours are ideal. We cruise 8 miles through some of the most famous rapids on the river. Because of the river’s decreased water levels, it becomes an exhilarating and tricky class III+ run. The river is loaded with back-to-back rapids and magnificent calm pools for virtually the whole half-day portion of the trip.
5. North Santiam River for Thrills and Chills
The North Santiam River is a fast-flowing white-water adventure with Class III and a few Class IV rapids. The river, which flows through Willamette Valley just 30 miles from Salem, Oregon, provides three-season fun thanks to a dam that manages the river’s flow and depth. Bring your raft to the river, or consider taking a guided rafting excursion to get a feel for the rapids.
The most significant period for family rafting is from August to mid-September when the river has a slower speed. However, the river becomes more attractive from mid-September to October when the neighboring Detroit Dam boosts the water flow in preparation for winter rains.
Rafters frequently encounter Class III rapids in the fall. However, spring is the best time for severe rafters since melting intensifies the river’s movement, creating Class III and Class IV rapids.
Exact Location:
It is located east of Salem, along Highway 22, in the Santiam Canyon. Lyons, Mehama, and Mill City are nearby towns. It is located just 30 minutes from Salem and 90 minutes from Portland,
What to Expect here:
You will be supplied with the necessary equipment to ensure a safe and pleasurable vacation (including wetsuits and paddle jackets if needed). In addition, you will be served a riverside lunch at the end of full-day outings tailored to your party.
In addition to the exhilaration of the fast-moving water, you may observe wildlife such as deer, minks, otters, and grouse. In the fall, the river is teeming with salmon. In addition, the river’s sheer cliffs and small gorges provide a unique glimpse at the geology of the area.
Several volcanic peaks can be seen in the distance. You also get a look at the area’s early past, with images of Mill City, a small town that sprang up around the area’s timber mill.
6. The McKenzie River Rafting
The top and lower sections of this 90-mile Willamette River tributary feature mild and steady rapids ideal for first-time rafters and family outings.
The McKenzie River, named for Scottish Canadian fur trader Donald McKenzie, flows westward to the southernmost end of the Willamette Valley about two hours south of Portland. The water is clean, refreshing, and not too tricky for first-timers, depending on where you put it.
Exact Location:
The McKenzie River is a 90-mile (145-kilometer) tributary of the Willamette River in western Oregon, USA. It is 140 miles from Portland.
What to Expect Here:
McKenzie’s two-day tours usually begin at Olallie. Their half-day trips typically start at Frissell-Carpenter, while full-day adventures begin at Paradise. All excursions meet at Blue River, and all runs are on the upper McKenzie, which has regular class II rapids and the occasional class III drop.
Although the McKenzie’s steep and swift flow creates livelier rapids than their class II classifications would suggest, this is a comparatively mild whitewater adventure.
The McKenzie’s offers pristine water, vibrant forest scenery, good fishing, and gorgeous campsites in addition to exciting whitewater.
7. The Deschutes River Rafting in Oregon
The Deschutes River is one of the most popular rafting rivers in Oregon. This portion of the river has numerous appealing elements that have made it a popular destination. It’s no surprise that many people come to the Deschutes year after year, thanks to the bright weather, consistent summer water flows, and easy access to multiple fun and exciting rapids.
The Deschutes River (approximately 250 miles) in Central Oregon is an actual river for rafters of all ages and skills. The most popular starting point for Portlanders is Maupin in Wasco County. Expert rafters, first-timers, and everyone in between may find half-day, full-day, and even day-long trips on the river, as well as lots of options for a post-rafting beer and burger.
Exact Location:
The Deschutes River runs through central Oregon. It provides much of the drainage on the eastern side of the Cascade Range on its approach to the Columbia River’s confluence. It is140 miles from Portland.
What to Expect Here:
The Deschutes River Scenic Waterway features breathtaking basalt cliffs, bighorn sheep, wild trout and steelhead fishing, a fascinating history, and, of course, magnificent whitewater. The Lower Deschutes portion has lots of sunshine and is enjoyable for novices, families, and experienced paddlers alike, making it one of Oregon’s most popular rafting destinations.
When you slide down Wapinitia and Boxcar rapids shortly after entering the river, you’re bound to get wet (Class III). You’ll float a delicate part of the river before tackling a slew of exciting rapids, including Surf City, Oak Springs, White River, and the Elevators.
8. Lower Clackamas River Rafting
The Lower Clackamas River is ideal for beginner rafting trips for families with minor children or groups looking for a lovely, relaxing day on the river.
There are two half-day trips available if you need to get somewhere quickly. The Lower Clackamas is an excellent introductory trip within a short drive from downtown Portland.
Exact Location:
The Lower Clackamas Watershed is located in Clackamas County, Oregon, on the Clackamas River Ranger District of the Mt. Hood National Forest. It’s only about a 20-minute drive from Portland.
What to Expect Here:
With a meeting site approximately 45 minutes from downtown Portland, this vacation easily fits anyone’s summer schedule. With a surprising number of class II/II+ rapids, this brief 6-mile segment nevertheless offers plenty of splash and laughter.
Also, with so many swimming holes, this is a terrific way to get out and play in the river while keeping an eye out for Osprey soaring overhead.
9. White Salmon River Rafting
The 44-mile (71-kilometer) White Salmon River, formed by old lava tubes, flows from the glaciers of Washington’s Mount Adams into the verdant Columbia Gorge. The White Salmon is navigable virtually all year, unlike many adjacent rivers, making it a favorite autumn adventure destination.
A typical half-day excursion begins at BZ Corner, Washington, 90 minutes northeast of Portland. The journey concludes with the 12-foot (4-meter) Husum Falls, one of the country’s tallest commercially craftable waterfalls. Don’t worry; you can avoid the plunge if you prefer.
Exact Location:
The White Salmon River is a 44-mile (71-kilometer) tributary of the Columbia River in Washington, United States. It is about 90 minutes and 95 miles (152 kilometers) from Portland.
What to Expect Here:
The White Salmon River is one of the most beautiful and adventurous river day experiences in the West, with stunning world-class whitewater rafting and kayaking, breathtaking landscapes, and dramatic basalt cliffs and waterfalls.
Thrill-seekers will enjoy navigating the various rapids and (depending on water level) the 10-foot-high Husum Falls, the tallest commercially floatable waterfall in the United States. Even beginners will enjoy this rafting adventure, as our skilled guides teach the fundamental techniques and paddle strokes required for a pleasant and memorable trip.
Most of our trips begin – depending on water level – around two miles upstream of BZ Corner (the usual commercial put-in) in a steep, rugged canyon, thanks to a collaboration with a local landowner. Triple Drop is the first (Class IV) rapid you’ll encounter before continuing downstream through ten more heart-pounding Class III-IV rapids. Then, depending on the water level, your excursion will finish with an exciting (optional) plummet down 10 foot-high Husum Falls, an experience you’re likely to remember.
A full-day tour will give you an up-close look at a magnificent, narrow canyon beneath what used to be Northwestern Lake’s, Condit Dam. The Lower-Lower White Salmon part of the river, which runs from the removed dam to the Columbia River, is continually changing, providing boaters with a rare glimpse into the rehabilitation of a once-dammed river.
Why is it called White Water Rafting?
Whitewater rafting got its name from the inflatable boat that you ride to navigate the turbulent waves and rapids. The term “white water” refers to the appearance of water caused by the frothy rapids of a guzzling river.
The phrase “whitewater” also has a broader definition, referring to any river or creek with a substantial number of rapids. In addition, the term is often used as an adjective to describe river boating, such as whitewater canoeing or kayaking.
How dangerous is White Water Rafting?
Nonetheless, the media loves to exaggerate adventurous mishaps, and whitewater rafting is no exception. However, the chances of becoming a statistic are pretty low.
River Valley, a New Zealand-based operator, analyzed US and New Zealand data and discovered that fatal injuries had averaged one per year since the rafting industry’s inception. Another study that used distance traveled on a raft as its base unit of comparison indicated that driving a car was up to 100 times riskier than being on a raft over any given distance.
How old do you have to be to White Water Raft?
To undertake white water rafting, you must be at least 5 years old and begin on Class I, easy rapids. However, each rafting guide company will have its minimum age restrictions for rafters, which will vary depending on the difficulty and length of various rivers and excursions.
White Water Rafting Portland - FAQ’s
Conclusion:
The Rives mentioned above are the best white water rivers for rafting in Portland. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a commercial outfitter, here’s some helpful advice: “Always wear your [personal floatation device], always investigate the piece of water you’re going on to make sure it’s acceptable for your ability level, and never raft with alcohol.” I hope this white water river rafting in Portland guide helped you.
