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More Is Better…Multi Day Deschutes River Rafting Trips

By Gary Schoenecker February 5th, 2015 Deschutes Rafting, Deschutes River, Whitewater Rafting Comments Off

River Camp
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The Lower Descutes River offers one of the most popular multi day rafting and fishing experiences in Oregon. The Lower Deschutes River is a popular choice for rafters because it is close to the city of Portland and it’s a great river for those who are new to whitewater who want to learn the basics, but challenging enough for experienced rafters to keep them on their toes. The Lower Deschutes is likely Oregon’s most well known and most sought after spot to fly fish for both wild trout and steelhead. With trout populations running over 3500 trout per mile, the first 50 miles below Pelton Dam offers some of the finest trout opportunities in the state.

Whether this is your first time planning a multi day adventure with High Desert River Outfitters, or you’re a self proclaimed ‘river rat’, there are many things to consider. Logistics and planning are our passion and there is a lot that goes into preparing for each and every trip to ensure that our guests are safe, comfortable, well fed, and of course having lots of fun along the way. Determining the length of your trip is a good place to start. For the novice who would like a great introduction to multi day rafting or those who are on a tight schedule our two and three day Deschutes Rafting trips are the most popular.

On our Deschutes Two Day Rafting trip there are two put-in and takeout options. Trout Creek to Sandy Beach or Buckhollow to the mouth of the Deschutes where it enters into the Columbia River. Trout Creek to Sandy Beach is the most popular of the two options for those who are looking for a little more whitewater action provided by locally famous rapids like White Horse class iv, Wapinita and Box Car class iii, and Oak Springs class iv. There is still enough tranquil stretches of quiet river to provide a little something for everyone on this trip. Buckhollow to the mouth takes you deep into the river canyon as the river meanders from bend to bend providing unparalleled views of steep basalt cliff faces where if you look carefully you just might spy the allusive Big Horn Sheep. This stretch of river offers spectacular fishing and swimming holes, picturesque camping sites, and enough whitewater action to keep you on the look out.

The most popular multi day trip that we offer is our Deschutes Three Day rafting trip. This popular trip starts at Warm Springs and continues 55 miles to Sandy Beach. With an extra day of rafting we spend fewer miles on the river each day which allows for more free time in camp to relax, hike, fish, or just enjoy the sun and scenery of this beautiful high desert river canyon. You’ll experience all the best that the Deschutes has to offer for both scenery and exciting whitewater action. This trip also includes the white knuckle ride through White Horse, Buckskin Mary, Box Car, and Oak Springs.

No matter which trip you choose deliciously prepared meals are provided for you from breakfast on the first day to lunch on the last. We can tailor the menu to cater to guests with special food needs or wants. Of course you’re always welcomed to bring any of your own favorite snacks and drinks. We’ll provide plenty of fresh water and lemonade, but you have to provide for your own adult beverages. While we do allow alcohol on these trips in camp our priority is your safety and no consumption of alcohol is allowed while on the river. These trips are set in remote locations with limited to zero outside access and response times for medical emergencies can take a long time.

We are a complete outfitter which means we can provide you with everything you’ll need to be comfortable on any of our multi day trips. We have tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads available for rent. We’ll provide you with your own personal dry bag to put your personal belongings in and splash gear and wet suits to help keep you warm and comfortable free of charge. Check out our Gear List for recommended items you may want to bring along with you on your trip.

Multi day rafting can be an amazing experience and great way to spend quality time with family, friends, or celebrate special occasions like birthdays, reunions, bachelor or bachelorette parties, and corporate team building. With a little careful planning and attention to the details we can help ensure that you’ll have a trip that exceeds your expectations and have you coming back year after year. It’s never too early to start planning and getting your group to agree on a date or time frame and to help you with that you can call our office 1-800-461-5823 and speak with one of our staff or checkout our online reservation system for availability.

We look forward to sharing this amazing and unique opportunity with you this coming season!

Deschutes River Rafting Video That Exposes The Truth..Rafting Is Too Much Fun!

By Gary Schoenecker January 30th, 2015 Deschutes Rafting, Deschutes River, Whitewater Rafting Comments Off

Last summer was one of our busiest seasons with endless sun, perfect water levels, and tons of fun! Check out this awesome You Tube video that captures all the best moments on one of our Full Day Lower Deschutes Rafting trips shot by Jason VanVuren with his GoPro 3+ last summer.

So, you wanna create your own awesome Deschutes River rafting video? No problem..Your waterproof cameras are always welcomed on any HDRO rafting trip, but you definitely want to be able to safely secure your camera to prevent it from becoming a sacrifice to the the River Gods..We also have our own staff of professional photographers positioned at the best rapids along the river to capture shots of you and your group getting soaked!

If you rafted with us last summer, but didn’t have the time to check out your photos in our photo lab after the trip we got you covered! You can check out your photos online now!

During peak season the most popular days and dates will sell out first, so don’t miss out on your perfect day or date and book early. It’s easy to check dates and availability with our online reservation system. Take a look for yourself!

Or..

If you like to talk on the phone as much as our office staff, call us right now! 1-800-461-5823 We’re in the office 9am-5pm Monday through Saturday ready to take your phone call and help you plan a trip that’s perfect for you.

The Deschutes River Is The People’s River! Rafting On Your Public Lands

By Gary Schoenecker January 29th, 2015 Deschutes Rafting, Deschutes River, Whitewater Rafting Comments Off

The Bureau Of Land Management (BLM) administers more of your public lands–over 245 million surface acres mostly in the west–than any other federal agency in the United States. The BLM is the primary caretaker of your tax sponsored public lands which includes the the Lower Deschutes Wild and Scenic River in Central Oregon, a river that we know very well with decades of experience honing our craft on and perfecting what we believe is the standard in quality and safety for whitewater rafting on the Lower Deschutes River..Your river.

Whitewater rafting has evolved over the years and it’s no longer just extreme sports enthusiasts, adrenaline junkies, or weekend warriors looking for the thrill and rush that whitewater rafting offers. People from all backgrounds and ability levels are answering the call of the wild and are discovering whitewater rafting for the first time with High Desert River Outfitters as their guide on a Deschutes Rafting experience. We know this river well and we take great care and pride in providing a trip thats perfect for everyone. Check out our recent blog 5 Ways to Have a Fun and Safe Whitewater Rafting Trip for great information you’ll need to prepare for a whitewater rafting experience with us on the the Deschutes River. And, check back here on our blog regularly as we will also spend some time showcasing each one of the rivers throughout Oregon and Washington that we provide professional guide services for in order to give you the information and background that will give you a deeper appreciation and understanding of your public lands and the rivers that flow through them.

With the growing popularity of whitewater rafting as a fun and safe way to experience your public lands and because the BLM does regulate and limit the number of users, it’s never too early to start planning your Deschutes Rafting trip. The most desirable days and dates during peak summer season will sell out first, so don’t miss out on that perfect day or date and visit our website highdesertriver.com where you can check availability and book online or call our office 1-800-461-5823 to speak with one of our awesome staff members who will help guide you in planning the perfect Deschutes Rafting trip.

High Desert River Outfitters is proud to be your full service river outfitter combining our decades of experience on the Lower Deschutes River, top of the line equipment, and our team of professionally trained river guides to create a fun, safe, and memorable whitewater rafting experience for the whole family. High Desert River Outfitters has been granted a special use permit by the office of the BLM to offer professionally guided whitewater rafting experiences along this stretch of protected river corridor for the last 20+ years.

5 Ways to Have a Fun and Safe Whitewater Rafting Trip

By Gary Schoenecker January 27th, 2015 Whitewater Rafting Comments Off

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So, you are looking for a way to get off the couch and into nature, to take advantage of the nice weather, and the awesome Oregon rivers —whitewater rafting makes perfect sense. Only, you are a little worried about how safe of an activity it is, and wonder what to expect.

Oregon river rafting trips can be suitable (and a ton of FUN) for everyone, aged five and up, and all skill levels. The trick is simply to be prepared, and know the golden rules of safety. There was a time when whitewater rafting was considered a dangerous sport for extremists and nature enthusiasts, but the truth is the sport has gone mainstream and can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a taste of adventure.

As a premier rafting trip company,High Desert River Outfitters (HDRO) is all about providing clients with a positive experience, so we’ve put together a list of 5 tips that will make a pro out of any potential rafter.

1. Choose a professional rafting outfitters

The first step in planning your river rafting trip is finding a licensed company that can guarantee you guides with professional experience and safety training. Qualified guides can help you plan a safe trip that matches your skill-level and optimize your day of adventure, accordingly. They will walk you through the trip with detailed guidelines to ensure you are armed with the knowledge, and gear, required to have a successful trip.

2. Listen to your guide’s instructions

Your guide will give you specific details about your trip, point out any potential dangers and offer advice on how to avoid such dangers. You will be told about safety measures, and be given tips on how to avoid trouble, and how to get out of it, so that you can rest assured that when you get on the water, you are ready for anything. This will make your trip less stressful, and way more enjoyable!

3. Always wear protection

Lifejackets and/or personal floating devices (PFDs) come with every rental —use them! Although river rafting is generally a safe and fun experience, as with anything else, accidents can happen. Swimming techniques for whitewater rivers are a little different, and having a PFD is the surest way to avoid any unnecessary harm to anyone. You will also be wearing a helmet. Like riding a bike, safety should always come first.

4. Know the techniques

Your guide can kindly offer you tips on how best to hold the paddle, how to avoid tipping or flipping the raft, and how to swim in whitewater (if necessary). If you are a first-timer, you may be surprised by how much the raft rocks, the sensation of hitting rocks, or even become overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the whitewater itself. But don’t panic. If something doesn’t feel right, remember what your guide said, and follow those instructions. By the end of the day, you’ll feel like a pro and be ready to hit it all over again!

5. Dress appropriately

You will get wet. It’s inevitable. Your trip will be that much more comfortable if you dress in clothes that you don’t mind getting wet. Beachwear, summer casual, water shoes; dressing appropriately will keep you in good spirits, and let you focus your attention on the fun at hand, and the amazing scenery.

Beat the heat this summer!

By Gary Schoenecker June 7th, 2013 Whitewater Rafting Comments Off

Beat the Heat

It finally feels like summer around here with day time temperatures well into the 80’s! And, we think there is no better way to beat the heat this summer than with a Deschutes River rafting trip. It’s kinda like having your own private water park where you experience the cool rush of waves crashing over your raft, the jaw dropping thrill of plunging over Oak Springs, and a lazy river where you can work on your tan. All rolled into one day of fun and adventure!

Gear up for a fun day on the river

By Gary Schoenecker May 20th, 2013 Whitewater Rafting 2 Comments

Gear Up

Experiencing a guided whitewater rafting trip can be one of the most exciting thrill rides you’ll ever take. But, to ensure that you’ll have a trip that exceeds your expectations it’s important to prepare yourself ahead of time. Whether you’re planning a raft trip that is just for the day or for a week there are few things to keep in mind that will keep you safe, comfortable, and having a great time.

High Desert River Outfitters have been providing full service guided rafting trips for almost 30 years and we believe that our success is due in large part to our commitment to provide our guests with the knowledge and know-how to prepare them for a trip of a lifetime they’ll be talking about for years.

If this is your first whitewater rafting experience you will have many questions about what to expect and what you’ll need to bring with you on your trip. So, to help you with your planning here are a few things to keep in mind that will ensure that your trip is a fun and memorable one!

Everyone can go whitewater rafting. Although, there are certain expectations every outfitter and guide have about the people they’ll safely be taking down the river. There isn’t necessarily an age limit on who can go rafting, but safety regulations do require that all children weigh at least 45 pounds and can fit properly into a Type V U.S. Coast Guard approved life vest.

Whitewater rafting is considered an ‘extreme sport’ much like skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking. You should be physically able body to participate in a mildly strenuous activity, but you don’t have to be a ‘world class athlete’ or ‘daredevil’ to have a good time.

The type of clothing and footwear you choose for your rafting trip can be the difference between miserable and memorable. Your first layer of protection should always be the application of sunscreen that is at least 30 SPF. Even on relatively cloudy days the UV rays can still penetrate the cloud cover and burn you before you realize it.

Your first layer of clothing should be some type of bathing suit. You will get wet and a your swimsuit will be a lot more comfortable than that old pair of comfy jeans. For women, we recommend a second layer on the bottom to protect your bottom while sitting on the raft. A pair of comfortable trunks or shorts designed specifically to get wet and dry quickly are your best choices.

Shirts and top layers should be made out of synthetic material. DO NOT WEAR COTTON. Cotton feels amazing after the trip when it is dry and warm, but when it is wet you will just be cold and damp. Synthetic materials dry quickly keeping you warmer and more comfortable.

Footwear should be appropriate for getting wet and protecting your feet when walking around the boat ramps and loading in and out of rafts. Sandals with straps or water shoes that lace, velcro, or slip on are recommended.

Wearing a hat or visor is recommended if the forecast is for clear and sunny skies, as well as, a pair of sunglasses. However, if your sunglasses are very expensive, prescription, or have sentimental value you will definitely want to get yourself a leash for them.

Bring a water bottle. It’s important to stay hydrated when you are on the river and the sun is beating down on you all day. Although the splashing of water from the rapids is refreshing and cools you off it’s easy to forget that you are actually dehydrating on the inside.

After an exciting day of hitting rapids and swimming in the river nothing feels better than slipping into warm dry clothes after the trip. Now you can break out those comfy jeans, cotton t-shirt, and tennis shoes for the ride home. Not a bad idea to throw in some snack foods to hold you over until you get home.

By preparing ahead of time for a fun day on the river you’ll ensure that you will be comfortable and safe. Check out a complete checklist of items to bring with you on your rafting trip.

We look forward to seeing you this summer!

It’s that time of year again..let’s go rafting!

By Gary Schoenecker May 15th, 2013 Whitewater Rafting Comments Off

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This past month our guides have started to return from their winter slumber to prepare for what’s expected to be a very busy rafting season. With the new season also comes a fresh crop of new faces of aspiring raft guides who bring their experience, sense of adventure, and good humor. We believe that experience is the best teacher and our guides are put through the paces as we prepare for weeks leading up to the unofficial start of the summer season Memorial Day weekend.

Our most experienced guides lead the others in ‘what if?’ scenarios up and down the river including exercises in swimming swift water, self-rescue, boat handling, river hydrology, and of course most importantly safety.

It’s an exciting time of year for us here at the shop as we are a close nit group who have been working together and looking out for each other for many seasons on the river and it’s wonderful reunion. Most of the guides take off for the season and follow other pursuits including venturing off to other rivers around the country and the world. We even have guides that spend the entire winter in the snowy Cascade Mountains working for one of the three area ski resorts and others who disappear altogether and only reappear when the snow pack melts and the river begins to rise. You’ll have to be sure and ask your guide what they’ve been up to!

Owyhee River Rafting Trips

By Gary Schoenecker June 1st, 2011 Whitewater Rafting Comments Off

The Owyhee River has a huge snow pack this year, which means we will be able to run trips for a few more weeks. June 7th, 14th, and 21st are start dates available. This is a 5 day trip thru Oregon’s Grand Canyon. We are offering a half off price for these last trips. See more info at www,highdesertriver.com or give us a call at 800 461-5823

Welcome to High Desert River Outfitters

By Gary Schoenecker April 21st, 2011 Whitewater Rafting Comments Off

HDRO is Oregon’s premier whitewater rafting company. Come and enjoy one of life’s great adventures. We have trips to suit everyone, from mild to wild. Our trips are on 7 of Oregon’s best rivers, including the Deschutes, Rogue, Upper Klamath, Mckenzie, Owyhee, and Grande Ronde rivers. Give us a call @ 800-461-5823

Bryan going BIG at Oak Springs

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High Desert River Outfitters 1-800-461-5823