Owyhee River Rafting in Oregon is one of the best rafting trips!
A rafting trip on the Owyhee River is a memorable experience that will last a lifetime. Spend 5 days on the Grand Canyon of Oregon, Owyhee River, granted Wild N Scenic status in 1984. The rapids are rated class 2-4 and suitable for ages 6-10+. Swimming skills are suggested, but not required.
Six and one-half miles from the Rome put in; Crooked Creek comes in on the left, marking the start of the canyon. The canyon opens for several miles; about 6 miles below Crooked Creek is Upset Rapids, class III, followed by Bullseye, class II-III. Artillery Rapids (mile 21.5) is a straightforward class III. About 1 mile below this rapid, Rustlers Cabin makes a nice break stop along the right. The cabin has been badly damaged over the last ten years, and only some of the walls remain. Old farm equipment and rock corrals here are impressive historic sights. Look for a hot spring near the river within the marshy area if you crave a warm soak.
Lambert Rocks rise majestically along the left 2 miles beyond Rustlers Cabin. After beautiful Lamert Rocks, Bogus Creek Falls is seen on the right at mile 27.5. Another 1.5 miles farther is class III Dogleg; after 2 more miles comes Whistling Bird Rapids, class IV-. Continuing along, the next rapid you encounter is Montgomery rapid, the canyon narrows dramatically as it makes an S-turn and then widens again. Next look for beautiful, spring-fed Rinehart Creek which cascades down the left bank. Just downstream of Rinehart Creek is Morcum Dam rapid, formed by the remains of an old diversion dam for Hole-in-the-Ground Ranch.
A mile below the ranch, on the left, look for some historic Indian petroglyphs on rock slabs near the river. Respect the area and take only photos. A hot spring is located at a grassy spot on the left just 2 miles below the petroglyphs. We will take out at Birch Creek Historic Ranch on the 4 day trip and continue on to Leslie Gulch on the 5- day trip for a powerboat pull to the take out.
2023 Launch Dates:
- Sunday April 9
- Sunday April 30