Best Places for Rafting in Bend, Oregon
Bend, Oregon, is a haven for outdoor fans. Especially those who want to have exciting water experiences. In Central Oregon’s heart, Bend is covered by natural rivers, which will deliver the best rafting adventure in the Pacific Northwest. From the Deschutes River’s flowing waters to the Mackenzie River’s quiet flow, Bend will present different opportunities for rafters of all skill levels.
Whether you’re looking for a gentle float or a skilled rafter looking for adrenaline-pumping rapids, Bend’s channels offer excitement, stunning landscapes, and options to link with nature. The area’s spectacular views of volcanic peaks, fantastic wildlife, and pure rivers make it a unique destination for any rafting experience. Bend’s choice of guided tours provides every traveler with a rewarding and safe adventure.
1. Deschutes River (Big Eddy Thriller)
The Big Eddy Thriller on the Deschutes River is Bend’s most famous whitewater rafting adventure. Which will deliver an excellent, exhilarating experience for newbies and thrill-seekers. This area of the river is well known for its class III rapids. Which will provide the correct mix of excitement and safety. The trip usually takes three hours, beginning with a leisurely, scenic float via the gorgeous high desert geography. The rafters soon discover the thrilling Big Eddy Rapids as the tension rises. The splash and burst of adrenaline before reaching down on the calm waters will ensure a fantastic experience.
Best Rafting Agencies for Big Eddy Thriller:
i. Sun Country Tours
- Service: Big Eddy Thriller rafting trip, which lasts about 2 hours.
- Price: $75 per person for this short trip.
- Contact: (541) 382-6277
- Experience: This is a high-energy trip with fantastic rapids, perfect for people who want a taste of adventure without committing to a full day.
ii. Ouzel Outfitters
- Service: Big Eddy short trip focused on the thrilling Class III rapids.
- Price: $72 per person.
- Contact: (800) 788-7238
- Experience: Their guides make sure you’re comfortable even through the rapids. It’s a fast-paced, fun ride through a beautiful section of the river.
2. Upper Deschutes River
Rafting the Upper Deschutes River is a peaceful and scenic adventure. It would suit families with youthful children or those wanting a more exact adventure. This stretch of river is incorporated with long stretches of calm moisture with gentle Class I-II rapids. It will let the rafters float while taking in Oregon’s stunning view. Surrounded by lush pine forests, volcanic rock formations and abundant wildlife. The Upper Deschutes River presents a possibility of enjoying nature leisurely. Ideal for newbies, this rafting trip will blend the beauty of the outdoors with a safe, lovely floating adventure.
Best Rafting Agencies for Upper Deschutes River:
i. Sun Country Tours
- Service: Scenic float trips for beginners and families on the Upper Deschutes.
- Price: $75 per person.
- Contact: (541) 382-6277
- Experience: Guides are friendly, and they make sure everyone has a great time. It’s a calm, relaxing experience with beautiful surroundings.
ii. Cascade Rafting & Kayak
- Service: Half-day rafting trips along calm sections of the Upper Deschutes.
- Price: $65 per person.
- Contact: (800) 292-7238
- Experience: Great for families with young children or anyone who just wants to float and enjoy the outdoors. Very easygoing trip.
3. McKenzie River
McKenzie River is discovered about an hour west of Bend, Oregon. The prime rafting goal is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. This river presents a mix of Class II and III rapids. This makes it perfect for those seeking a half-day experience that mixes charges with the sheer beauty of character. As you navigate the river, you will see lush forests, towering evergreens and the occasional local wildlife.
Best Rafting Agencies for McKenzie River:
i. High Country Expeditions
- Service: Full-day trips, including a riverside lunch.
- Price: $140 per person.
- Contact: (541) 822-8288
- Experience: A great eco-friendly trip with lots of opportunities to see wildlife. Their guides are knowledgeable and make the trip very enjoyable.
ii. Rapid River Rafters
- Service: Half-day and full-day rafting.
- Price: $90 for half-day, $160 for full-day.
- Contact: (541) 753-2099
- Experience: Family-friendly and focused on safety. Perfect for first-timers and families with younger kids.
4. North Umpqua River
North Umpqua River, located a few hours southwest of Bend, Oregon. A top choice for thrill-seekers for a more challenging whitewater adventure. The river boasts a series of thrilling Class III and IV rapids. The adrenaline-pumping effort will be against stunning mountain view and dense, forested geographies. An ideal place for a full-day rafting trip. The North Umpqua River offers exciting rapids and the area’s untouched looks, dynamic nature, and lush greenery. It would be an ideal goal for more experienced rafters looking at 3the wild and rugged beauty of Oregon.
Best Rafting Agencies for North Umpqua River:
i. Rogue Rafting Co.
- Service: Advanced rafting trips for those with experience.
- Price: $160 per person for a full-day.
- Contact: (541) 479-5061
- Experience: Great for adrenaline seekers. They provide wetsuits and safety gear for the more difficult rapids.
ii. Crater Lake Rafting
- Service: Full-day and half-day rafting with Class IV rapids.
- Price: $145 for half-day and $180 for full-day.
- Contact: (541) 498-2533
- Experience: Expert guides make this trip fun and safe, even with more intense rapids.
5. Lower Deschutes River (Maupin Area)
The Lower Deschutes River, especially in the Maupin area, is a favorite spot for both day trips and multi-day rafting. Known for its continuous flow and warm water. This stretch of river has a mix of Class III and IV rapids. This makes it perfect for thrill-seeking rafters amid a stunning desert backdrop. The landscape is characterized by dramatic canyon walls, sagebrush and abundant wildlife. It will provide a warm atmosphere for the trip. The Lower Deschutes is also ideal for progressive trips, as it has many opportunities.
Best Rafting Agencies for Lower Deschutes River:
i. All Star Rafting
- Service: Full-day and half-day trips on the Lower Deschutes River, focusing on the Maupin Area.
- Price: $90 for half-day, $135 for full-day.
- Contact: (541) 395-2203
- Experience: Great guides, and the full-day trip includes a riverside lunch. The Maupin section has beautiful canyons and some thrilling rapids.
ii. Deschutes River Adventures
- Service: Offers both guided and self-guided trips on the Maupin section.
- Price: $85 for guided half-day, $140 for full-day.
- Contact: (541) 395-2885
- Experience: If you’re confident and experienced, their self-guided options allow you more freedom. They also provide all necessary gear.
My Experience
My best experience out of all the rafting trips in Bend was definitely on the Big Eddy Thriller section of the Deschutes River. It’s a short trip, but that’s what made it so memorable. I didn’t need to spend a whole day on the water to get a rush of excitement. The Class III rapids came fast, and it was thrilling from the moment we hit the water.
I went with Sun Country Tours, and their guides were laid-back, but very focused on safety. We all got a quick briefing before heading out, which put me at ease. The rapids were intense enough to get your heart pumping, but not so difficult that I felt overwhelmed. The best part was how close it is to Bend. You can be back in town after just a couple of hours.
Even though it’s a short ride, it’s packed with excitement. If you’re looking for something quick and fun, I’d highly recommend trying the Big Eddy Thriller. It’s perfect if you want a taste of adventure without spending the whole day on the river.
In Conclusion
Bend, Oregon, is a premium goal for rafting fans. It offers a wide range of river experiences that cater to all skill classes, from the thrilling rapids of the Big Eddy Thriller on the Deschutes River to peaceful float trips on the Upper Deschutes. There is something for everyone. The nearby McKenzie River and the more challenging North Umpqua River offer more opportunities to share Central Oregon’s untamed beauty from the water. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly outing or an adrenaline-pumping whitewater challenge, the rivers encompassing Bend offer unforgettable rafting, covered by stunning views and pristine nature.
