The McKenzie River is a true gem of the Pacific Northwest.  Flowing off the foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range, the McKenzie starts its 86 mile journey. Its clarity and color are seldom seen and will leave you with a lasting impression.  Its continuous technical nature keeps you active as the waves dance around you.  The top 10 raft-able miles was recently designated "Wild and Scenic" and winds through some of Oregon's most pristine old growth forests.

The McKenzie River

TRIP OPTIONS

• Group discounts for 12 people or more.  Call for price quote(click).
• Day trips include:  US Forest Service fee, parking fee(if necessary), river shuttle for drivers, invasive species tag, and lunch.
• If needed or requested:  wetsuits, splash jackets, wet socks.  
• Complimentary NHR water bottle on overnight trips(water included;).

UPPER McKENZIE

The Upper McKenzie River has some of the most pristine, serene and clearest water in Oregon. This section of the river is designated by the Federal Government as "wild and scenic". Flowing off the Cascade Mountain Range, the McKenzie River starts from an underground spring at Clear Lake. The river is moderate in difficulty, depending on water levels. The continuous class II and III(IV) technical rapids make this trip non-stop fun and exciting for intermediate to advanced skill levels.

The Upper Section has a flex zone of about 8 miles due to water levels lowering as the summer progresses on. NHR puts in at the highest put in available to give you what we think is the best section of the McKenzie.  On your 6 hour, 14 mile trip you will see plants that are found in only the higher elevations of the Cascades. You may spot many forms of wildlife that make this alpine terrain their home. The natural surroundings will give you visually lasting impressions of this classic valley. During your trip you will have the opportunity to stop and enjoy the natural hot springs that are located along the banks of the river.

Campgrounds are located about every 5 miles along the river. There are many hiking and biking trails that include waterfalls, old growth forest and hot springs. Most of the extra recreation is located just a few miles from the section that you will be rafting. The McKenzie River has much to offer for people that are looking for a good time away from the day-to-day grind.

LOWER McKENZIE

The Lower McKenzie River offers wonderful scenery combined with more of a pool-drop characteristic. The river maintains a continuous class II level which makes this section great for the whole family. However, it does have two of three bold print rapids listed in the guide book. Brown's Hole can easily be avoided, or not, and Martin's Rapid is at the very end of the trip after you have had all day to practice your rafting skills. This stretch of river is good to try out inflatable kayaking or be introduced to whitewater rafting. Also, the river flows are higher than the upper section later in the year when it is hot in the McKenzie Valley.

  USDA Nondiscrimination Statement

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in its programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at 202-720-2600 (voice ant TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410, or call 202-720-5964 (voice or TDD). USDA Forest Service is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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