Rafting the Rogue River

Days 2 and 3

Expect a breakfast call around 8 am with fresh coffee ready earlier. After breakfast everyone packs their dry bags and the rafts get loaded, getting the trip on the water around 10 am. Rogue trips typically float 8 to 12 miles over 4 to 5 hours each day with multiple stops to visit old homesteads, scout rapids, and partake in a riverside lunch. The iconic Mule Creek Canyon and Blossom Bar Rapid lie downstream of the historic Rogue River Ranch on the morning of third day of the trip. Flow variations can change the itinerary.

Last Day Rafting the Rogue River

The last morning includes some mellow rapids and beautiful scenery. At the Foster Bar take-out, you and the head guide will ride in a van for 3 hours getting you back to Galice around 4 pm. Those that get car sick may want to sit in front and be prepared with Dramamine for the windy van ride.

Rafting Price Includes

All the group camping and river-related safety equipment is included along with plenty of fresh food and snacks starting with lunch on the first day through lunch on the last day. There will be plenty of water but if you would like soda, beer, wine, or liquor with your dinner, please bring your own, (beer and soda in cans; wine in boxes or bags; hard liquor in plastic bottles).

Sleeping bags, pads and tents are available at no additional cost but you must request them. Please indicate your gear requests in your trip registration. The price also includes transportation from Galice to the put-in point, and take-out point back to Galice.

Gratuities

Guides appreciate gratuities for their efforts. Typically, tips range around 10% to 15% of the trip cost and can be given to the head guide to be evenly distributed amongst the crew. That being said, the choice to tip is yours and depends upon your feelings about the trip and tipping in general as well as your financial means.

What to Expect

Making the most of your trip

We find people have the most fun when they remain flexible. Rafting trips are an adventure and the guides are continually adjusting the days plans to make the most of each day as it is presented. It can be nice to leave your watch behind.

Rogue River Weather

Southwestern Oregon’s summer weather usually sees highs ranging from 80°F – 90°F with temperatures dropping into the 60’s°F at night. Although known as a wet state, very little rain falls on the Rogue during the summer months. However, you can expect some overcast and cool days do occur, so be prepared with layers and good rain gear.

Rafts & Group Size

Your main forms of transport will be oar rafts, a paddleboat, and inflatable kayaks for those who wish for a more interactive experience. Typically 18 feet long, oar powered rafts carry three guests plus the guide, who maneuvers the raft with a set of oars mounted on the raft. Normally three to five boats travel together with group sizes limited by the Bureau of Land Management to 22 guests maximum.

The 14-foot long paddle raft carries six people plus a guide. Each person paddles as a guide calls out the paddling commands. When water levels are suitable, single, and two-person inflatable kayaks let you challenge the rapids on your own terms. Please note that space in the paddle raft and inflatable kayaks is not guaranteed. If more people that wish to ride in these boats than spaces available, paddlers will rotate so that everyone gets a chance to participate.

Camp Life

Whether you’re an experienced camper or it’s your first time under the stars, river camping is an enjoyable and relaxing experience. Everyone participates in setting up and breaking down camp. The guides set up a clean, private camp toilet first thing upon arrival at camp and dismantle it lastly in the morning.

Meals

There will be plenty of healthy tasty food on the trip. A full breakfast with cowboy coffee gets the day going. A riverside picnic sets the scene for lunch. Dinners can be anything from a steak, grilled filet of salmon, or a Mexican feast and may be followed by a hot, Dutch oven dessert. There are plenty of snacks and water available throughout the day. Alcoholic beverages are not included, but you are welcome to bring your own. When signing up for the trip you will have an opportunity to share any special dietary requirements.

Packing for your river trip

You will be provided with a suggested packing list after signing up for the trip. The key equipment is good river footwear and clothing that protects you from the rain and the sun. While rain rarely falls in the summer, proper rain gear will make it a much more joyful experience if it does. Here are some rain gear, footwear, and other clothing options we recommend.

Fishing the Rogue

Fishing on the Rogue River is popular particularly in the fall. Those wishing to fish can purchase an Oregon License on-line through Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Please bring poles protected in sturdy cases.

Getting There and Away

Driving

The Galice Resort is about 35 minutes from Grants Pass. Cars can be left in the Galice Resort parking lot while on your trip. You will be shuttled back to your car at the end of the trip. Some people choose to have their cars shuttled to the take-out making it easier to head out to the Oregon coast. Shuttle arrangements can be made the morning of your trip with the Galice Resort.

Flying

Thirty miles south of Grants Pass is Medford, Oregon the location of the closest airport (MFR). Town & Country Taxi  (541-476-7773) provides van transportation between the airport to Grants Pass, be sure to book this in advance. Due to potential delays, it is not recommend to fly out of Medford the evening the trip ends.