Deschutes River

Maupin, Oregon /

Class 2-3

Whitewater Rafting Trips on the Deschutes River

Warm Waters and Red Rock Beauty, Discover the Deschutes River: An Ideal Day Trip from Portland, Oregon

Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Portland, Oregon, to explore the magnificent Deschutes River out of Maupin, OR. This remarkable river, with its name derived from a French word meaning “River of the Falls,” stretches 252 miles from Little Lava Lake in the Cascade Mountains until it converges with the Columbia River. Originating near Bend, Oregon, the Deschutes River boasts a consistent, high-volume flow, making it easily navigable year-round.

Prepare to be captivated by the striking contrast of the Deschutes River’s surroundings. The rugged, arid landscape, characterized by broken reddish and brown cliffs, stands in stark juxtaposition to the vibrant fringe of green vegetation that adorns the clear, flowing waters. As you embark on your boating adventure, you’ll have the privilege of witnessing this ever-changing wonder of nature, with the river serving as your moving platform for uninterrupted views.

Whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, the Deschutes River promises an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on a day trip from Portland and immerse yourself in the splendor of the Deschutes River’s natural beauty. From the cascading waterfalls to the serene stretches of clear water, this remarkable river will leave you in awe of its magnificence.

Deschutes River - 1/2 Day Rafting Trip

starting at

$69

Deschutes River - 1 Day Rafting Trip

starting at

$89

Deschutes River - 3 Day Wilderness Raft Trip

starting at

$429

Raft Rentals!

We are now offering raft Rental Service for the Deschutes River.

RAFT RENTAL - Gear Boat for Overnight trips

starting at

$229/day

RAFT RENTAL - Paddle Raft Rentals

starting at

$99/day

Deschutes River Whitewater Rafting Adventures

Embark on an unforgettable Deschutes River whitewater rafting adventure, starting from Maupin, Oregon. Perfect for families and non-swimmers, our trips cater to all skill levels. Choose from half-day, full-day, and multi-day wilderness excursions, ensuring a variety of options for your Deschutes River whitewater rafting experience.

The Deschutes River offers two renowned sections for thrilling whitewater rafting and kayaking. The first is the exhilarating Big Eddy, located upstream between Dillon and Lava Island Falls, just above Bend. The second section extends from Warm Springs to the exciting 15-foot drop at Sherars Falls (portage). These combined sections span approximately 58 miles and feature a mix of rapids, including a few thrilling Class 3 sections.

One of the most beloved trips is the immersive 3-day wilderness adventure on the Deschutes River. This trip allows you to fully embrace nature while our experienced guides take care of everything, from preparing delicious meals to providing exceptional Deschutes River camping accommodations. Additionally, you’ll gain valuable insights about the area, making it an enriching journey.

For shorter trips, the Oak Springs section is a popular choice, offering a fun and splashy experience from Warm Springs to Shears Falls. This stretch features notable rapids such as Boxcar, as well as various Class 2 and 3 rapids. Conveniently accessible as day trips from both Portland and Bend, these exciting sections are easily within reach.

Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the Deschutes River’s thrilling rapids, stunning scenery, and exceptional guides. Join us for an adventure-packed Deschutes River whitewater rafting experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Wild and Scenic Deschutes River

Designated as a National Wild & Scenic River in 1988, the river offers opportunities for overnight boating trips, hiking, biking, hunting and fishing.  With a drop in elevation from 1,393 feet to 160 feet at its confluence with the Columbia River, the Canyon contains a diversity of landforms, vegetation and color.  Carved from rugged volcanic basalt flows, the vertical cliffs, wide talus slopes and numerous caves not only provide dramatic landscape, but afford ideal nesting habitat for bald eagles, peregrine falcons and osprey.  Most of the 300 different species of wildlife utilize riparian habitats adjacent to the river which provides outstanding opportunities for rafters to view waterfowl, heron, beaver, river otter and many reptiles. The river corridor supports critical elk and mule deer winter range habitat.

Deschutes River Fishing

Only 2 hours southeast of Portland, Oregon, an hour from Bend, Oregon and an hour from Mt. Hood, the lower Deschutes River is central Oregon’s playground.  World-renowned for its fly fishing, the Deschutes is home to Columbia River redband trout (known locally as “redsides).

With around 300 days of sunshine a year, what better place to be than on cool, sparkling clear water that offers Class II to IV rapids, sandy beaches and a host of visual stimulus.

FAQ's

Can you rent a raft for Deschutes River rafting in Maupin, Oregon?

Yes you can rent a raft for a private Deschutes River rafting trip. These are available for the following options our of our Maupin outpost. All rentals include PDF’s, paddles, helmets & trailer (check availability). Overnight oar frame gear boats can include additional add-ons.

Where to stay in Bend, OR?

Many of our river guests day trip from Bend, OR to our outpost in Maupin for a whitewater rafting trip on the Deschutes. The Visit Bend website is a great resource for info on where to stay in Bend, OR.

Note that it is a 1 1/2 hour drive to Maupin from Bend, OR.

Where to stay near the Deschutes River in Maupin?

The Maupin chamber website is a great resource for info on where in and around Maupin, Oregon to stay. We are close to Portland & Bend for convenient vacation getaways.

How long does it take to raft the Deschutes?

You can raft the Deschutes River for a half day, full day or on a multi-day wilderness adventure with riverside camping.

What class rapids are on the Deschutes River?

The rapids on the Deschutes River near Maupin, OR are rated Class 2-3+. Descriptions for Class 2 and 3 rapids are:

  • Class II – Medium: Rapids of medium difficulty; swift current, passages are wide and clear.
  • Class III – Difficult: Waves numerous, high, irregular; rocks, eddies, rapids with passages that are clear though narrow, requiring expertise in maneuvering.

These trips are suitable for ages 7+ and non-swimmers.

 

What river runs through Maupin Oregon?

The Deschutes River runs through Maupin Oregon. This is a popular river for white water rafting and fishing. Guided rafting trips are most popular June-September. Raft rentals for private boaters are available for Deschutes River rafting and other river trips.

Meeting Location

Meeting Location:
Tributary Whitewater Maupin Outpost