If you’re a first-timer looking for information on the “bathroom situation” or a seasoned professional looking to pass some knowledge along to a hesitant friend or relative we’ve got you covered. What the Heck is a Groover? A “Groover” is the rafting term for a portable toilet used on river trips. Back before the comfortable modern Groovers were made, river users used military surplus ammo cans that would leave two grooves on each cheek of your behind when you sat down. We’ve come a long way… Read More
Managing your menstrual cycle on a river trip can seem daunting, but it can be a breeze with the right pre-trip preparation. Here are some tips and tricks to help you feel prepared for your river adventure! Flow Kit I like to make a “Flow Kit” to keep in my day bag on the days I think I might need it. Here is what it contains: Tampons – A variety of sizes that I know I might need. Hand Sanitizer – In case a hand wash… Read More
Introducing guests of any age to the rivers we call home is easily the best part of our job. Still, nothing really competes with watching the excitement of a kid who just conquered their very first rapid! Families make up a big bulk of our summer guests–especially on the Rogue River! While some of these families may be experienced rafters or campers, most of our guests are brand new to the experience. While we know you and your family will love our river trips, we understand… Read More
Here’s why ospreys are unique Over 10,000 bird species grace our planet’s skies, but only nine occupy every habitat available to them. While two of the nine – pigeon and sparrow – are as familiar to us as cats and dogs, the other seven – short-eared owl, cattle egret, great egret, peregrine falcon, barn owl, tern and osprey – are hiding in plain sight. They spread thanks to humans Pigeons and sparrows are a common sight in pretty much every major city in the world. The… Read More
Our trips on the Chetco River begin with a 10 mile hike from the east side of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness to the Chetco River at Carter Creek. From there we paddle 19 miles across this vast and dramatic federally protected wilderness. One of the best parts of these trips are seeing the many rare and endangered plants while we are hiking and paddling. The uniqueness of the botany is due in large part to the serpentine rocks and soils of the area. These serpentine soils lack… Read More
A few rapids loom larger than others when river guides tell tales around the campfire. Here’s a list of the biggest rapids from a river guide’s perspective – in alphabetical order. Not big enough for you? If you’re an accomplished kayaker or extreme rafter, you’ll want to scroll down to the bottom of this page to see a round-up of rapids that are bigger, but not commonly discussed among river guides. 1. Blossom Bar (Rogue River, Oregon) You don’t get to be known as “the most… Read More
Maybe you’ve heard the roar of Lava Falls echoing up the canyon or maybe you’ve just heard about it. Any trip down the Grand Canyon comes down to the climactic moment of rowing Lava. But there is plenty of time to practice before you get to Lava at Mile 179.7 and there are specific rowing techniques that are important to know for the Colorado River. A river with the longest and most storied whitewater rowing history in America. Quick History of Rowing the Grand Canyon John… Read More
1. The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act is 48 years old! President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act into law by on October 2, 1968. The act turns 50 in 2018. “We are establishing a National Wild and Scenic Rivers System which will complement our river development with a policy to preserve sections of selected rivers in their free-flowing conditions and to protect their water quality and other vital conservation values.” – President Lyndon B. Johnson 2. Wild and Scenic Rivers have… Read More
We offer three different types of rafts: oar boats, paddle boats, and inflatable kayaks (aka “duckies”). On your trip registration you will be asked about what percentage of the trip you would like to be in each type of boat. This is just an estimation for us that allows us to make informed decisions about which boats to bring. It’s typical to switch boats each day as you make new friends and get more comfortable on the river. The Oar Raft These large rafts carry all… Read More
Dressing comfortably and fashionably for overnight river trips requires a little advance planning. You will want clothes to wear on the river and in camp. On the River 2+ Shorts or Swimsuits 2+ Shirts Lightweight Wool or Polypro Shirt River Shoes or River Sandals Hat for Sun Protection Sunscreen & Lip Balm Water Bottle Sunglasses with Strap River Clothes: For your daytime river outfit, you’ll want quick-drying clothes so that you don’t feel soggy all day. Wearing shorts with a lightweight long or short-sleeved shirt are… Read More
