North Santiam Rafting Trip

This trip takes place on a scenic and gentle stretch of the North Santiam River, known for its forested surroundings and approachable Class II rapids—perfect for beginners, families, and anyone looking for a relaxed float with a splash of excitement.

The North Santiam Day Rafting Trip typically puts in at Fishermen’s Bend Recreation Site and takes out at North Santiam State Recreation Area.

This stretch offers around 13 miles of beautiful, forested river with fun Class II rapids, calm pools, and a few splashy waves—perfect for a relaxed day on the water. The route may vary slightly depending on water levels and conditions.

Yes! This trip is designed specifically with younger kids, senior adventurers, and cautious first-timers in mind. The rapids are mild, the pace is easygoing, and the scenery is beautiful, making it a great choice for a wide range of ages and experience levels.

No prior rafting experience is necessary. Your guide will give a safety talk and basic paddling instruction before you hit the water, and they’ll be with you the whole way to help navigate the river.

Rafting happens rain or shine! The river can actually be even more beautiful under overcast skies. Just bring the right layers to stay warm and dry.

We recommend waterproof cameras or phones in a dry bag if you’d like to bring one. Keep in mind that anything you bring on the river can get wet or lost, so leave valuables behind.

Yes! Private trips are available for this experience. Just select the "Private Rafter" option during the online booking process to reserve a boat exclusively for your group.

Yes, lunch is included on your North Santiam Day Trip! Our guides serve up a fresh and flavorful Mediterranean-style spread—think garbanzo and veggie medley, crisp cucumbers and carrots, assorted olives, and Greek-inspired toppings with green goddess dressing. We typically offer Mediterranean chicken with the option to build your own wrap, including gluten-free and vegetarian options. It’s a healthy, satisfying riverside meal designed to please a variety of tastes and diets.

Wetsuits are not included and typically not needed for the North Santiam trip. The river is mellow and the water temperature in summer months is usually comfortable enough for standard river attire. Just wear quick-drying clothes and shoes that can get wet, and bring an extra layer for cooler days or spring/fall trips.

• Gates, OR: Packsaddle is just about 2 miles east of Gates on Highway 22—only a 5 minute drive
• Mill City, OR is approximately 7.5 miles east of Packsaddle, about a 10-15 minute drive.
• Salem, OR: It's roughly 40 miles east of Salem via Hwy 22, typically a 45–60 minute drive .
• Portland, OR: For our Portland-based guests, expect a 1.5 to 2‑hour drive, depending on traffic

On trips where meals are provided, with advance notice we are happy to accommodate most dietary requests. At the time of your reservation, we try to collect as much information as possible to make your trip perfect for you. This includes food preferences, requests, and allergies.

On most trips, we typically have a few different boats to choose from:

Oar Boats – these rafts carry the majority of our gear and also provide a comfortable place to kick back and relax as your guide rows the boat downstream.

Paddle Boats – these rafts are more participatory, and passengers will have a paddle to help move the boat downstream. A guide in the back controls the raft with oars while giving instruction to the crew.

Inflatable Kayaks (Duckies) – The most active way to head downstream is in an inflatable kayak. These boats are fast, super maneuverable, and an absolute blast to run through rapids. You’ll follow a paddle boat, and the guide will give you pointers for each rapid.