Having fun and getting wet whitewater rafting on the Rogue River.
ROGUE RIVER OVERVIEW
The Rogue River is well known throughout the world as one of the most famous and classic western river runs in the United States. With its lush green forests, waterfalls, and mighty rapids, the Rogue River was given a Wild and Scenic River designation in 1968.
The Rogue begins its journey to the Pacific Ocean high up in Oregon's Cascade Mountain Range near Crater Lake National Park. This 200 mile journey to the ocean starts with travelling through lava flows and lava tubes. "Natural Bridge" is a well known lava tube on the Rogue River where the entire volume of river goes underground for about 200 feet. It reemerges back out into the river canyon creating a free flowing river again. Because the Rogue's headwaters are located high up in the Cascade Range at Boundary Springs, the water temperature ranges throughout the year at a low of around 40 degrees and a high of around 60 degrees.
"I just wanted to let you know what a great time we had. Greg was fun and
knowledgeable, and kept us in the raft! My 77-year-old mom absolutely
loved it, and wants to do it again soon! Thanks for giving us some great
memories."
-Lorna Conner
Rogue River "Nugget" Rafting
Once the river flows downstream from the upper reaches the Rogue River continues its travels through grasslands and widening terrain before it reaches the "Gold Nugget" section near Gold Hill, Oregon. Until 2010 this section of river was situated below Gold Ray dam which was constructed in 1904 as a log structure. After years of debate and political wrangling, the Gold Ray dam was removed in 2010. The dam removal now allowed the Rogue to flow free, uninhibited, from Lost Creek dam to the Pacific Ocean.
Nugget & Powerhouse Rapids
The "Nugget" section of the Rogue, as it's fondly known, offers whitewater rafting and kayaking opportunities to the skilled boater. Rapids in this section of river range from Class 1-4. Rapids such as Nugget Falls, Class 3+, and Powerhouse Rapid, Class 4, offer challenging rides through two of the Rogue's toughest rapids. Novice boaters are not advised to paddle this section of the Rogue River.
The Lower Reaches of the Rogue River
Below Gold Hill, the Rogue continues its journey past the City of Grants Pass, Oregon and begins to cut its way through the Coast Range. It passes through what is known as the Wilderness section of the river. The Wilderness section of the Rogue is also known to locals as the "Wild and Scenic", the "Lower Rogue", and "The Canyon". This Wild and Scenic river canyon is known today as a multi day family float.
This section of river has a rich history with anglers and rafters. Its known as having friendly rapids today, but this was not the case back in the day of early boaters. The fearsome Rogue River of the past was altered when river runners blasted the huge boulders that choked the river channel. This made way to the smooth glassy waves that characterize the Rogue River Canyon of today.
*River trips are not without inherent risks. Kokopelli River Guides cannot assume responsibility for injury to rafting / kayaking / rental participants or loss of personal property. You will be required to read and sign a waiver and release prior to your trip.
