Oregon
Whitewater Rafting on the Owyhee River: Oregon's Grand Canyon
Program No. 2256RJ
Join outdoor experts to learn about whitewater rafting, visit Ryegrass Hot Springs and explore local history as you discover why the Owyhee River is known as Oregon’s Grand Canyon.
Enroll with Confidence
We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more
Protecting the Environment
We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more
6 days
5 nights
15 meals
5B 5L 5D
1
Registration / Program Orientation
Owyhee River - Oregon
2
River Journey Begins
Owyhee River - Oregon
3
Canyon Scenery and Hot Springs
Owyhee River - Oregon
4
Spectacular Chalk Basin Hike & Green Dragon Canyon Float
Owyhee River - Oregon
5
Petroglyphs and Hot Springs
Owyhee River - Oregon
6
Last day of Spectacular Scenery. Departure.
Owyhee River - Oregon
At a Glance
Join a 65 mile whitewater rafting adventure on one of America's most pristine and remote wilderness rivers, the Owyhee in southeastern Oregon. Led by local experts, navigate this powerful tributary of the Snake River as it charges through seldom-visited high-desert canyons of exceptional beauty. During this journey, explore historic sites, hike to overlooks and view pictographs.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Rafting and optional kayaking between 2-3 hrs. at a time on class III+ rapids. Climbing in and out of rafts. Up to 6.5 hrs. per day moving downriver, typically 9-15 miles per day. Carrying bags in camp across uneven and terrain. Temperatures often vary widely and can go down to the 30’s at night. Prior whitewater rafting and wilderness camping experience strongly recommended. Elevations of 2,700-4,300 feet.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Spend 3-5 hours a day on the river exploring its best rapids, including Montgomery and Long Sweetwater.
- Camp on the wild shores of the pristine Owyhee River, pitching tents each night and breaking camp each morning.
- Visit Ryegrass Hot Springs, a secluded spot where water emerges from the ground at 110 degrees.
General Notes
Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.
