Finding an ideal river that offers a little something for everyone is difficult. The North Fork John Day River in Oregon is a rare place where a family can share in white water adventure, adventure seekers can fulfill their spirits, and solitude cravers can leave satisfied.

The North Fork (NF) John Day is approximately 107 miles long and is a tributary to the main stem John Day River. The NF John Day River is part of the National Wild and Scenic River system. Rightfully so.

The NF John Day River can be categorized into many segments as the upper reaches possess different characteristics to it’s lower reaches. This is one of the beauty in this river. You can scout out many different parts depending on your objective. The one thing in common for the entire river is its natural beauty and abundant wild life. No matter what section you explore, the desert beauty with the wild remnants of a volcanic history is stunning.

For a recommended 4 – 5 day adventure, consider putting in your boat(s) at Dale, Oregon with taking out at Monument, Oregon (approximately 44 river miles). This trip allows you to find plenty of wilderness camping along the banks, experience solitude, and some fun rapids. This trip can be done in shorter or longer segments, all depending on how fast (or slow) you want to travel. It’s also a safe stretch to bring your family with younger kids as there’s plenty for them to do and can be safe given safety precautions are always followed.

As sample itinerary as follows:

Day 1: Travel to the put in area, Dale, Oregon. There’s some campgrounds along Hwy 395 or some spots to camp near the put in spot.

Day 2: Put in! Let the adventure begin

Day 3: Find some designated camping spots approximately 10-15 river miles downstream. Enjoy the evening and please follow the fire restrictions (if applicable – it is a desert).

Day 4: Float along, leisurely, to your next camp spot. You can make this a long day by travelling 12-17 miles. Look for a shady camp site to enjoy the scenery.

Day 5: Float the remainder of your river to the town of Monument. This is where you can take out.

Vehicle shuttles can easily be set up with local businesses that offer shuttling services. Make sure to contact them on the logistics and availability. One place you can start is the Dale General Store.  Another logistic for your planning is water levels.  Check the local resources to determine if the river flow is sufficient for your trip.

Enjoy the journey of planning and implementation.
(c) 2015

White water rafting is a great way to absorb the beauty of the river, share good times with friends and family, learn about the local geology, and just spend some free time.  The benefits to white water rafting is long and every trip does not have to be a life defying adventure.  Rafting specific stretches of a river can allow a group to plan according to their comfort level, available time, and the river’s accessibility.  If you have never white water rafted before, do not let this discourage you from taking the steps to get familiar with a sport that will inevitably gain your favor.  It is a fun sport that can be done safely.  Most importantly, it is a great reason to just be on a river enjoying the scenery.

Planning a rafting trip can be a post in of itself.  Whether you are new to rafting or a long time veteran, there’s always something to learn in the planning process.  Rafting rivers is a dynamic process.  The rivers characteristics, such as rapids, may have changed throughout the year and offer a different challenge no matter how often you have been on a river.  Tracking water levels, if the river is not overly controlled by a dam, also needs to be considered for the timing of your trip.  Permits issued by the local governing authority need to be invested.  Where to start and end your trip plays a major planning role.

The planning list can be long but is really no different from the diversity of items you would consider for any other trip.  It’s a fun way to anticipate your upcoming rafting trip.  There is no shortage of online resources to help you plan.  This post will help select your river.

There are many great rivers to raft in the United States.  One state that comes to mind for rafting is Oregon.  The Pacific Northwest region is notorious for their damp climate and access to great outdoor adventures.  This is a great combination for river rafting.  Oregon specifically, boasts many rivers that can challenge the experts and also offer a great introduction to the beginners.  It has it all. Here’s a list of rivers to showcase the diverse offerings Oregon has:

1. Owyhee River (southeast corner of Oregon)

Commonly known as Oregon’s grand canyon, the Owyhee river does not disappoint.  The canyons that have been carved the river is a spectacular scene.  Some of the cliffs are over a thousand feet high, wildlife abundant with river otters, big horn sheep, and golden eagles.  It is in a remote part of Oregon and takes planning to make your trip successful.

It is also classified as a Wild and Scenic river with little access to services.  The river is usually floated in 1 of 3 segments so start your planning now.  Since the river is located in a desert region, finding the right time of year to float it is key.  The water level needs to be sufficient for floating purposes.

2. Snake River (eastern Oregon)

The Snake River starts in Wyoming but drains into the mighty Columbia River.  It is a river that boasts many unique features in the United States. It is the deepest gorge in the US where it plunges 8000 feet between the Seven Devils range (east) to Oregon’s rim country (west).  There are many combinations of possible trips to do on the Snake River, ranging from big rapids up high to lower gradient down low.  Either option, you choose, the recreational bliss factor is huge on the Snake River.

3. Deschutes River (central Oregon)

The Deschutes River is another mighty tributary to the Columbia River.  It originates in Central Oregon, near just south of Bend, Oregon, and meets the Columbia River due north.  The history behind the Deschutes River is fascinating in how it played a role with the Native Americans and more recently, the pioneers who journeyed out west.  As the history is diverse and rich, so are the recreational opportunities on the Deschutes.

There are many rafting possibilities on the Deschutes and is a rare river that has steady flows so it can be rafted on year round (check with the local agencies on year round accessibility).  This is another great river to raft with families and plenty of campsites around (some with pit toliets). Another bonus is the world class trout fishing the Deschutes offers as well.

4. McKenzie River (western Oregon)

The McKenzie River starts high up in the Oregon Cascade Mountain range and drains westward into the Willamette River (another tributary to the Columbia River).  It is approximately 90 river miles long and also represents Oregon well.  Much of the river is in the National Forest and offers great solitude and recreational opportunities.

Rafting the McKenzie will cater to many levels of rafters (or kayakers) and also offers great fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and spectacular scenery.  Check with the local agencies on conditions and accessibility and you’re planning can start right away.

5. Rogue River (Southwest Oregon)

The Rogue River is a 215 mile long river starting in the Oregon Cascade Mountain range and flows westward directly into the Pacific Ocean.  It has many characteristics that are unique in Oregon.  Starting in a temperate forest, rushing down into a desert valley and finding its way through another mountain range with some of Oregon’s most unique geology.  This river has it all, for the nature lover to the adventure seeker.

A long stretch of the river is registered as Wild and Scenic (check with local authorities on permits) and is coveted by the rafting/kayak community.  The river provides opportunities for both beginners to experts and planning the appropriate section for your trip is crucial (as with most rivers).  The ecological diversity offered by the Rogue River will whet almost any appetite.

 The above list is only a small representation of what Oregon has to offer in terms of rafting or kayaking.  In general, the Pacific Northwest region’s ecological and geological diversity caters well to many water sports, rafting and kayaking only being a couple.  Starting your planning with this list will inevitably open doors to other options worth exploring.

Enjoy the planning journey as much as the trip itself.
(c) 2015

The Pacific Northwest offers a wide range of recreational opportunities.  From mountaineering to amazing hikes, one can find as many adventures to suit your style.  The region is home to most major climates we know of, from the rain forests in the Olympic Penisula to the high plains desert east of the Cascade Mountains.  This ecological and climate diversity is also home to many spectacular waterfalls.

Washington State, specifically, boasts amazing recreational opportunities and cater to any customized outdoor adventure.  Washington hosts amazing waterfalls all over the state and to have this post represent all of them, would be an enormous challenge.  Nonetheless, listing a handful of waterfalls worth mentioning will get you started on your bucket list items.

The best part of having hikes with waterfall destinations is that you get to enjoy a beautiful hike while ending with a waterfall.  With the diversity of terrain and climates found throughout Washington, make sure you dig a little deeper into the trip details to help plan your trip.  The 5 waterfall hikes listed here is just the beginning.

 1. Boulder Falls (northwest Washington)

A hike along the Boulder River will take you to Boulder Falls in the Boulder River Wilderness.  A gentle sloped hike will get you started along the Boulder River and soon rewarded with views of the waterfall.  The trail doesn’t stop there but continues onward if your itinerary allows it.

There are spots with great views and places to enjoy the scenery while eating a snack or lunch.  This would be considered a family friendly hike and a great way to introduce a wilderness hike to children.

Round Trip can be 8.6 miles with approximately 700 ft. elevation gain.

2. Sol Duc Falls (Olympic National Park)

Sol Duc Falls is an accessible hike, almost year round, for any spectator.  Starting from the Sul Duc hot springs resort, you can do a loop hike with the waterfall has one of your destinations.  This is another family friendly hike and can be coupled with some soaks from the hot springs resort (please check with the resort as it is a private business).

Round Trip can be 5.3 miles with approximately 400 ft. elevation gain.

3. Palouse Falls (central Washington)

Palouse Falls, in Palouse Falls State Park, is Washington’s state waterfall.  This waterfall is a visual icon of Washington’s beauty.  Geologically, it also has a rich history – it is a remnant of the historical Missoula Floods thousands of years ago.  Palouse waterfall is a reminder on the vast processes and beauty that helped shape most of the Pacific Northwest.

Palouse Falls is another accessible waterfall with many family friendly options.  If you are inclined for added adventure, there are several trails that will take you to the bottom of the falls, to be rewarded with other falls just as spectacular.  The state park is a bit of a drive from major metropolitan areas so consider camping as an option in the state park.  This will provide ample opportunities to view the waterfall in the many lights offered throughout the day, starting with sunrise.

Round Trip can be 2.0 miles with approximately 803 ft. elevation gain.

4. Wallace Falls (central Cascades)

One of Washington’s more popular hikes, do not let this discourage you from visiting the falls.  If tranquility is what you seek, head out early to beat the crowds.  Due to its popularity, the trails are well maintained.  This is a hike for both beginners and seasoned hikers.  When you head out, don’t let the name lead you astray as there are 9 waterfalls to be seen in a round trip hike format.

If doing the round trip is not in the books, you can use the Middle Falls overlook as your halfway point and turn around.  For those seeking a longer day, you can continue deeper into the woods.  One amazing feature of this hike is that the waterfalls are not the only scenic part.  The entire hike is considered scenic to many.  So, enjoy the hike and many waterfalls along the way.

Round Trip can be 5.6 miles with approximately 1,300 ft. elevation gain.

5. Marymere Falls (Olympic National Park)

Another accessible and family friendly trails that has waterfall views.  Marymere Falls, in the Olympic National Park, can be accessed from the trail head near the Storm King Ranger Station.  Hugging the shores of Lake Crescent, there are other opportunities to explore the area and marvel in the beauty Olympic National Park has to offer.

The trail to the waterfall can be done in a loop.  Within the hike, other hiking options exist to extend your hike.  Another nice feature is a specific, family friendly, hike found close by.  Hiking with a family or solo, you’ll find plenty to do near Marymere Falls.

Round Trip can be 1.8 miles with approximately 500 ft. elevation gain.

This list represents a small portion of waterfall hikes Washington has to offer.  Regardless of your objectives, you can customize your trip to assure amazing scenery.  Another nice option on these hikes is to take advantage of the many things Washington has to offer.  If soaking in hot springs sound nice, plan around that.  If staying at resorts is more your thing, you’re in luck.  If you are not from the local area and need to fly in, Seattle is a major hub but do not overlook other airports found throughout Washington.
(c) 2015

Starting a new hobby or sport is very exciting. The anticipation of doing new things channels another level of passion in our lives. One particular hobby available to everyone is hiking. One can argue that hiking is a sport, hobby or just a daily thing that we all do. It certainly does not require travelling deep into the wilderness and testing your survival skills. Hiking is as simple as walking down a sidewalk all the way to taking a stroll in the beautiful outdoors where you can escape the usual urban environment.

Regardless if where you approach it from, hiking is enjoyed by assuring you are equipped with some knowledge to enhance your journey. When stepping into an unknown environment, having the right information to build on your experience is key. Hiking can be elaborate with high tech gear but having a solid foundation is crucial for any hiker.

The foundation to get you started is a list of essential things you should consider for any hiking adventure, be it a short jaunt to off course orienteering. This list differs from that of a “10 essentials to carry in your backpack” list and is intended to help prepare you for starting you off on a new hiking hobby or enhancing your veteran hiking skill set.

The list is as follows:

1. Boots

Boots are critical. They do not need to be the burliest ones out there these days. The most important feature of boots or shoes, is comfort. Uncomfortable feet produce uncomfortable hikes. If you’re in a continually wet area, consider light, waterproof boots. If you’re continually on long hiking journeys with a heavy pack, consider stiffer boots with support. Whatever the terrain or environment, make sure the boots are comfortable. More importantly, spend some time breaking in new boots or shoes.

2. Water

Yes, this is a no brainer but no matter how short the hike or how often you have done it, don’t leave your water at home or in the car. It’s a critical piece of any hiking adventure.

3. Map and Compass

Know how to use the two. You can reference a post discussing ‘map and compass 101’ here.

4. Headlamp

You never know when you’ll need one. These days, headlamps are compact, bright, and long lasting on one set of batteries.

5. First Aid kit

A small first aid kit can go a long ways. You can customize your own first aid kit into a small, sealable, plastic bag. Make sure you replenish any items you end up using.

6. Fire starter kit

Most fire starter kits are compact and lightweight. There’s really no reason to not have on, even on hikes. Just know how to use them – trying to figure out how a fire starter kit works when you are in desperate need of a fire, can be frustrating. Spend some time to learn how yours works. Here’s a review of some basic fire starter kit styles.

7. Snacks

Whether you want to carry food for emergencies or just have a nice snack on the trail, food always comes in handy.

8. A set of warm layers

You do not need your entire outdoor wardrobe but carrying one piece of warm jacket, and even a hat, is always nice to have. Weather can change drastically and being prepared helps weather it out.  Check out this post to provide ideas on the type of material your clothes should be, for the scenario you will need it for.

9. Itinerary

No matter how long or short your hike, make sure you tell someone of your location and plans. With all of the ways to communicate these days (text, email, etc), there’s no reason not to tell anyone where you’re going and when you plan to be back.

The list above is just a reminder that you do not need much to stay active with a hiking adventure. It’s a great way to get outdoors and reacquainted with the outer world. There are many items you can also bring, but that is entirely up to you and your comfort level. If you’re just starting out, the list above will get you started. Experience is key in understanding what your needs are.
(c) 2015