National Rivers, Rivers of Oregon: Overview of Oregon whitewater, Oregon paddling, Oregon canoeing, Oregon kayaking, Oregon rafting, Oregon fly-fishing, Oregon river conservation, Oregon river law, and Oregon river access.

The National Rivers Website, Rivers of Oregon:

Overview of rivers in Oregon

Oregonian paddlers have their pick of scenery when it comes to rivers. If you love forests but don't want the responsibility of planning your trip yourself, consider hiring an outfitter for a vacation down the Rogue River. Because the lottery for private floaters has long odds, an outfitter practically guarantees a spot the class III-IV whitewater.

Desert water rats might try the Deschutes. High water makes for rapids generally no higher than class III+, offering some wet and welcome relief from the hot sun overhead.

If you don't have a lot of time to spare, there are a number of good flatwater opportunities along the Columbia River, most near large cities and towns while retaining some rural charm. The Multnomah Channel is located near the mouth of the Willamette where it empties into the Columbia. It's really more of a tidewater slough than a proper river, but its easy pace means you'll have lots of opportunities for exploring the shore.

Another option with fairly easy paddling and a half-day's time is the Santiam River, northeast of Albany. The current is swift in places so that some landings are a little tricky, but overall the river is a good escape for the time-crunched.

Adrenaline junkies head straight for the wicked Middle Owyhee and its class IV-V waves. (Smart adrenaline junkies then line down Widowmaker Rapids; not for nothing did it get its name.)

The National Rivers Website and the Rivers of Oregon section are made possible by the generosity of the members of the National Organization for Rivers (NORS.) To start or extend your membership, go to NORS Memberships.

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The National Organization for Rivers (NORS)
Membership Offices:
212 West Cheyenne Mountain
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
(719) 579-8759. Fax (719) 576-6238.
nors@rmi.net

The National Rivers Website is part of Adventure Sports Online.