Price from:
97 USD
Experience thrilling whitewater rafting near Eugene & Sisters, OR!
Duration
About 7 Hours
About
Trips meet at 9:00 AM in McKenzie Bridge, we meet in the west parking lot of the McKenzie Christian church located 300 feet downriver from the McKenzie General store (our past office location) or at the upper overflow parking area of Belknap Resort and Hot Springs. These are only a short drive from Eugene or Bend, Oregon. It is a short 60 minute drive from either Eugene or Sisters / Bend Oregon. After the initial paperwork and introductions have taken place, we pile into our vans and head up to the boat launch. Once we reach the boat launch, we provide everyone with all necessary paddling gear. This includes splash tops (a nylon top with neoprene wrists and neck cuffs), splash bottoms, wet suits and booties. These are provided on cooler days or by request and free of charge. After a thorough safety and equipment orientation, we launch and begin our adventure. This is usually about 30 to 45 minutes from the time we meet.
We work as a team on the river maneuvering our way through fun continuous rapids and old growth forests. You'll have the opportunity to engage in fun water activities such as water fighting, river games and of course the entertaining experience with your guides. You may also encounter Osprey and Blue Herons fishing along the way. The river is crystal clear the entire way, full of history and is a diverse river eco-system. All of our guides are well versed in the river history, flora and fauna. Most of High Country’s guides are local to the rivers they guide!
On our full day rafting trips we offer a wonderful and hearty lunch, served and prepared by your guides right on the riverbank. High Country Expeditions prides itself with serving the best and most scrumptious lunches. Some of our guides are well trained gourmet chefs. Our lunches are always available to be customized to your needs. We can accomodate you needs whether you are vegetarian, vegan or on a low carb. diet, just let us know ahead of time.
After lunch (approximately 1 hour) we get back on the river and immediately engage in some great and thrilling class III rapids. Just before the take out we encounter “Redsides.” This is a fun and well known rapid by kayaker's. It consists of a class III set of waves. After going through the rapid your guide will give you the option to go back into the rapid and attempt to “Surf the Wave” (one of the highlights on the full day, river and crew conditions permitting.)
The trips are approximately 20 to 22 river miles long depending on water levels. You will get off the river sometime between 4:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. After the trip we load the gear onto our trailers and take you back to our office located at the McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill complex where you can fuel up with some of the most amazing fresh and locally sourced food made fresh to order, or relax for some live music and a nice cold beverage. Guest picked up at Belknap Resort will be taken back to the original meeting location.
Booking Notes
#Important:
Please complete your waivers online prior to arrival (link below).
If you prefer to bring a paper copy, please print and complete your waivers prior to arrival.
If you do not have a printer, you will be required to complete one of these forms upon arrival.
Click here to download the Assumption of Risk and Liability Release Family
Click here to download the Assumption of Risk and Liability Release Individual
#Pre-trip information:
Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early so we can get you checked in, sized for gear, and ready to launch on time.
We will provide all of the life jackets (PFD), boating equipment, paddling instructions, river safety talk, and shuttle service back to your vehicle. We also provide wet-suits (on cooler days unless requested), paddle jackets, and booties as long as we have your sizes in advance. These items are optional for your comfort (except the PFD).
Helmets are not required on the McKenzie River. However, with advance notice we can provide helmets for anyone who would like one.
#Full Day + Gourmet Lunch:
Your Full Day trip includes a high-quality gourmet riverside lunch in a beautiful, scenic setting. We can accommodate most dietary needs with advance notice (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.). Please let us know any allergies or dietary restrictions as soon as possible so we can plan accordingly.
#What to bring:
We recommend synthetic river-wear, hats, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen for the river trips. COTTON and DENIM CLOTHING NOT RECOMMENDED.
Feel free to bring your own beverages (no glass containers, please!). A dry bag is available on each trip in every boat to keep essential personal belongings safe and dry.
Cameras/phones: You are welcome to bring them, but please use a waterproof case or strap—electronics are brought at your own risk.
#General area information:
For lodging and McKenzie area information
For food and drink options before or after your trip, we recommend the McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill. Mention that you went rafting with High Country Expeditions and receive 10% off.
Feel free to contact us about local hot springs, waterfall hikes, and other spectacular sites in and near the McKenzie River Valley.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Policy for 1 Day River Trips
You may cancel your 1 day river trip up to 30 days prior to the scheduled date for a full refund. Cancellations made between 29 and 3 days before your trip will incur a $25.00 reservation fee, and the remaining balance will be promptly credited back to your credit card. If you prefer to reschedule your trip for a later date within the season, we are more than happy to assist you in doing so, and the deposit will be applied to your new booking. Please note that we do not provide refunds once your trip has been rescheduled. Additionally, cancellations made 48 hours or less before the trip date are non-refundable. For group bookings of 20 or more, you may finalize your group size up to one week prior to the trip without penalty. Our priority is your satisfaction, and we are committed to working with you to ensure a positive experience.
Cancellation Policy for Multi-Day River Trips, Schools & Courses
You may cancel your multi-day river trip or course enrollment up to 30 days prior to the scheduled date for a 50% charge of the total cost. If you cancel within 14 days, a 75% fee of the total cost will apply. Cancellations made within 10 days of the course or multi-day excursion are non-refundable. Our courses and multi-day trips necessitate extensive logistical planning, including shopping, guide assignments, vehicle coordination, and comprehensive preparation. Adhering to these timeframes is crucial for us to make the necessary adjustments to ensure a successful experience.
In the event of unforeseen emergencies, we encourage you to reach out to us with as much notice as possible. We are always willing to review each situation on a case-by-case basis.
Non-Performance
We reserve the right to cancel any excursions due to unsafe water conditions, poor weather, and other circumstances beyond our control. If a trip is cancelled, you may choose to reschedule or we will promptly refund your deposit/payment in full.
Important Information
Your safety is our top priority. All trips begin with a comprehensive river safety orientation and paddling instruction.
Helmets are not typically required on the McKenzie River but are available upon request with advance notice.
River conditions change daily; guides may adjust plans to ensure the safest and best possible experience.
