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The Rogue River
The Rogue River glimmers brightly in Oregon's crown of scenic landmarks. Originating high in the Cascade Mountain Range, it flows over 200 miles to reach the Pacific Ocean at Gold Beach. It was one of the original eight rivers granted federal protection from development under the "Wild and Scenic Rivers Act" in 1968.
Home to a rich history of Native Americans, gold miners, and settlers, the river was named for the "rogue" tribes that maintained their presence in the canyon until 1856. Today the river is a popular vacation spot for locals as well as visitors from all over the world. Kayakers, rafters, hikers, campers and anglers return year after year to experience the wild Rogue River.
Kayaking the Rogue
The Rogue is perfect for beginning paddlers for a variety of reasons. Due to the dams upstream, the flow maintains dependable levels and doesn't fluctuate wildly day to day. The water is surprisingly warm for the Pacific Northwest allowing for the occasional swim. June temperatures can be cooler with a potential for showers, so wetsuits may be necessary, but throughout July and August the weather is usually hot and sunny.
This river is a pool and drop style, meaning that after each rapid, there is usually a large recovery pool. It also progresses nicely in terms of difficulty with plenty of Class I and II rapids on the first couple of days to get your feet wet. Tougher whitewater will test your skills later in the trip as you enter the beautiful Mule Creek Canyon and beyond. The most difficult rapid on the Rogue is the Class IV Blossom Bar, which you will portage your kayak around.
Museums and Natural History
Even the river otters spend some time on shore and as your arms grow weak from paddling, you'll want to take a break from the boats. The Rogue has many incredibly beautiful side hikes up to waterfalls or various historic sites worth visiting. You can see the cabin of the famed Western novelist Zane Grey, search for arrowheads at Battle Bar or view the pioneer's photos at the Rogue River Ranch.
The wildlife found on the Rogue is also exceptional. It is common to see bald eagles soaring over head, Great Blue herons preening on shore or osprey diving for fish. Deer and elk are also plentiful. River otters and mink scamper along the shore; turtles and lizards sun themselves on rocks; and Steelhead trout as well as King, Coho or Chinook salmon leap up the rapids. An extra special treat is to see a black bear fishing on the shore as you float past.
