Whitewater River RaftingNews & Blog

Whitewater Rafting on the Deschutes Near Portland

Rafting the Warm Waters and Experience the Red Rock of the Deschutes River in Maupin

Located in the charming town of Maupin, Oregon, a whitewater rafting experience on the Deschutes River is more than a weekend getaway, it is a way to see the red rock landscape, challenge yourself in the Class III+ rapids and cast a rod into a world-renowned river. A time to relax and connect with family and friends as your meals and camp setup are taken care of. A chance to turn off your cell phone, camp on remote shores, and tell ghost stories under the stars.

As you embark on your adventure, you’ll be captivated by the stunning beauty of the surrounding high desert landscape. The Deschutes River boasts a variety of rapids, ranging from the playful Class II rapids to the heart-pounding Class IV challenges, making it an ideal destination for both beginners and seasoned rafters.

Only two hours east of Portland, Oregon, an hour from Bend, and an hour from Mt. Hood, the Deschutes River is central Oregon’s playground. Deschutes River trips launch from our outpost in Maupin, OR.

The Deschutes River, named during the fur trading era from a French word meaning “River of the Falls,” travels 252 miles north from Little Lava Lake in the Cascade Mountains to join the Columbia River. The stark contrast of the high, arid country of broken reddish and brown cliffs and the river’s turquoise waters gives the boater a moving platform for viewing this ever-changing wonder of Nature. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, including majestic bald eagles soaring overhead and playful otters frolicking in the river.

The Deschutes River not only offers thrilling rapids but also provides opportunities for relaxation and contemplation. Between the rapids, you’ll find tranquil stretches of water where you can unwind, take in the surrounding natural beauty, and dip your toes in the refreshing, yet warm, river waters. The peaceful moments amidst the dramatic canyons and expansive vistas create a perfect balance, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the rhythm of the river and appreciate the serenity of nature.

Whitewater rafting on the Deschutes River in Maupin is an adventure that is enhanced by experience it with a local guide such as us here at Tributary Whitewater. We will ensure your safety and maximize your enjoyment by providing you with the necessary equipment, expert instruction, and local knowledge to make your rafting experience unforgettable. For multi-day overnight trips we cook all meals and set up the camp each night.

People come from all over the world to experience the warm waters and red rock of the Deschutes River… and they leave with something more than time on winding waters. So, gather your friends, embrace the rush of the Deschutes River, and let us reconnect you to the wild.

Whitewater rafting trips on the Deschutes River out of Maupin, Oregon are suitable for kids and non-swimmers. We offer half-day, full-day and multi-day wilderness trips all summer long, check out the many options for Deschutes river whitewater rafting. Learn more.