Lower Rogue River

One of the original eight Wild & Scenic Rivers, the Lower Rogue River has long been considered a classic multi-day river trip. Fun rapids, coupled with what is normally warm water, topped off with spectacular scenery and wildlife all add up to a great Southern Oregon escape. The Rogue River is a permitted river. To launch between May 15 and October 15th you must either: 1) Enter and win a date through the lottery system or, 2) Pick up a cancellation.

Wildlife on the Rogue is phenomenal and it is common to have multiple Black Bear sightings throughout a three or four-day trip. The entire length of the float depends on where you decided to launch from but almost all trips put-in at the Grave Creek ramp and take-out at Foster Bar, which is a total of about 36 miles. Camping along the Rogue is normally comfortable, as there are many camps along the river suitable for groups up to 20.

The character of the Rogue River is considered "Pool and Drop" and the river falls at a rate of 12 feet per mile. Most of the rapids on the Rogue are considered class II and III, however there are two class IV rapids that certainly stand out. Mule Creek Canyon (class IV) and Blossom Bar (class IV) are back-to-back rapids that are normally run on the second or third day of a trip. Mule Creek Canyon is a narrow-walled canyon with a few places to cause trouble for both kayaks and rafts. Blossom Bar is a technical rapid with boulders strewn throughout the river. Most river runners run Blossom Bar by entering left and moving hard right back to the center of the river to avoid what is known as the "Picket Fence".

After these rapids, the Rogue mellows considerably and offers visitors a chance to absorb the gorgeous scenery and wildlife. Unlike most other multi-day rafting trips, the Rogue River has a few different lodges that offer accommodations for river travelers. A popular option is to spend a night or two camping under the stars followed by the final night at one of the lodges.

Due to the length of the shuttle drive, it is encouraged to acquire the services of one of the local shuttle companies.

Skill Level:

Intermediate

Directions & Map:

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From AOS, head north on I5.
Take the first exit for Merlin.
Turn left onto Merlin Road.
Continue on Merlin-Galice Road for 22 miles until reaching the Grave Creek boat ramp.