O.R.E. is happy to call the Wild & Scenic Clackamas River our “home” river. Rated as one of the best spots for Clackamas River rafting, it is only a 45-minute drive from Portland’s East Side. An unbeatable combination.

Nestled under Mt. Hood and Mt. Jefferson, the river courses its way down the Cascades to drain into the Willamette River, just downstream from the thundering Willamette Falls. Thrilling Class III+ white water rafting on the Clackamas River is perhaps the river’s primary attraction, but lush mountain scenery and cool, clear water make for a great way to jump into one of Oregon’s best-kept secret rivers.

Seasonally, deer and elk are in the area, and spotted owls, osprey, and bald eagles also call the river home. The lush river banks are filled with Pacific Silver Fir, Douglas Fir, and Western Hemlock.

Spring’s high water offers thrilling rapids for those looking for maximum white water excitement. Early-season rapids are big and promise a wet ride. As the water level drops with the arrival of Summer, the river’s character changes. Summer’s rapids are less likely to drench a paddle crew, but the fun of negotiating the river’s rocky slalom course provides ample challenge while leaving time to bask in the sun.