Molly Woodstock
Molly Woodstock has been writing and editing content for Travel Portland since 2014. Read More
Whitewater Rafting Near Portland
Paddle through rushing rapids on these scenic Oregon rivers.
Molly Woodstock
Molly Woodstock has been writing and editing content for Travel Portland since 2014. Read More
Whether you’re a lifelong rafter or have yet to touch an oar, Oregon’s rivers offer plenty of whitewater adventures. You’ll conquer rapids, spot wildlife and experience nature in a new way at these spots for whitewater rafting near Portland.
Whitewater Rafting Near Portland
Clackamas River
19 miles (30 km) from Portland
The mighty Clackamas River is the largest river on the west side of the Oregon Cascade Range. Offering 47 miles (76 km) of federally protected Wild & Scenic waterway, it flows through the Mt. Hood National Forest. Only an hour from downtown Portland, it also has some of the closest whitewater to the city. Highly popular for half- and full-day excursions, the river is packed with class III+ rapids and wildlife sightings.
When to visit
March through June for larger rapids; July through August for more technical runs
Guides
Sandy River
36 miles (59 km) from Portland
The 55-mile (89 km) Sandy River is navigable all the way from its headwaters on Mount Hood to its entry into the Columbia River. The best rafting experience, however, awaits in the Sandy River Gorge. The gorge features 70 foot (21 m) walls dotted with waterfalls and hanging moss. Located an hour east of Portland, this rushing stretch of river is full of challenging class III and IV rapids.
When to visit
March through June
Guides
North Santiam River
70 miles (113 km) from Portland
Located 23 miles (37 km) from the state capital of Salem, the North Santiam River offers a full day of rafting and relaxation. Families will want to visit in August when the river is relatively calm. For a more intense experience, visit in September or October, when spillover from the Detroit Dam increases the river’s water levels.
When to visit
August through October
Guides
White Salmon River
95 miles (152 km) from Portland
Formed by old lava tubes, the 44-mile (71 km) White Salmon River flows from the glaciers of Washington’s Mount Adams into the lush Columbia Gorge. Unlike many nearby rivers, the White Salmon is navigable almost year-round, making it a popular destination for autumn adventures. A typical half-day trip beings in BZ Corner, Washington, located 90 minutes northeast of Portland. The trip ends at the 12-foot (4 m) Husum Falls, one of the tallest commercially raftable waterfalls in the country. Don’t worry, though — you can skip the plunge if you prefer.
When to visit
April through October
Guides
Deschutes River
100 miles (161 km) from Portland
At 252 miles (405 km), the mighty Deschutes River offers plenty of options for visitors of all ages and abilities. First-timers will want to start with a half- or full-day trip down the Wild & Scenic Lower Deschutes. Meanwhile, more dedicated rafters can spend two to five days vacationing on the river. The most popular starting spot, Maupin, is located 100 miles (161 km) southeast of Portland.
When to visit
May through October
Guides
More Oregon Whitewater Rafting Destinations
McKenzie River
139 miles (224 km) from Portland
A great choice for beginners, the McKenzie River flows west from Central Oregon toward the city of Eugene. Located two hours south of Portland, the half-day trip is perfect for kids. Gear up for long stretches of placid water peppered with class II and III rapids.
When to visit
April through October
Guides
North Umpqua River
187 miles (301 km) from Portland
Visitors to famous Crater Lake National Park can make a slight detour to the North Umpqua. This boulder-strewn river features more rapids per mile than most other waterways. Expect an exciting day of class II and III rapids. More experienced rafters can try the class IV “Pinball” (named for its tendency to make rafts ricochet around).
When to visit
May through July
Guides
Rogue River
256 (412 km) from Portland
One of the country’s most celebrated rafting destinations is the Wild & Scenic section of the Rogue River. It offers 40 miles (64 km) of floating, hiking, bird-watching, wildlife spotting and sightseeing of historic lodges and cabins. A typical trip spans three to five days, starting in the Southern Oregon town, Merlin (four hours south of Portland).
When to visit
June through September
Guides
Upper Klamath River
291 miles (468 km) from Portland
Skilled rafters love the thrill of navigating 30 major class III to IV+ rapids on the Upper Klamath River. A one or two-day trip typically starts in Ashland, a vibrant Southern Oregon town near the California border.
When to visit
May through September
Enjoying the Outdoors
Camping Near Portland
To truly appreciate the wilds of the Pacific Northwest, spend a memorable night under the stars at these scenic campsites located within an easy drive from the city.
Favorite Hiking Spots in Portland
Put on some comfortable shoes and start walking — you’ll be surprised how easy Portland makes it.
Silver Falls State Park
Famous for its abundance of picturesque waterfalls, Silver Falls State Park is the largest state park in Oregon at 9,200 acres (3723 hectares) and one of the most popular.