Quick Details
Age: 6+
Duration: 2 hours
Minimum: 2 guests
Enjoy our most popular rafting trip on the North Santiam River!
This trip fills up quickly, so be sure to book in advance!
This Salem favorite is one of the state’s most frequently paddled summertime rivers. When the flows are low on other rivers, this one is still pumping. Paddle down a trio of Class III rapids and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
From the put-in at Packsaddle Park off Highway 22, the river offers boulder-dodging and forested scenery. After passing below the Gates bridge, get ready for the most exciting stretch of river.
Spencer’s Hole, Class III+, requires punching through a hole by running center-right into the rapid. Just downstream comes an island and a sweeping, left-to-right drop of Carnivore, Class III. The final rapid is Mill City Falls (Class III), a large drop below Mill City Bridge.
If you’re kayaking, park your car and set up the take-out at Mill City Bridge. If you’re rafting, take out a mile downstream at Fishermen’s Bend Recreation Site boat ramp.
The paddle from Fishermen’s Bend to North Santiam park is very nice, with easier Class II/III rapids.
What to Wear
- Shoes or sandals for the river (no flip-flops)
- Sunscreen and chapstick
- Sun hat or visor
- Sunglasses
- T-shirt and nylon shorts or a bathing suit depending on weather
- Synthetic fleece sweater and windbreaker depending on weather
- Secure strap for eyeglasses
- Change of clothes/shoes for the drive home
- Water bottle
- Waterproof camera (optional)
- Towel
- Cash for tipping your guide!
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Whitewater rafting can be a wonderful experience when you’re properly prepared. The North Santiam canyon is a beautiful microclimate between ranges and is usually quite nice compared to Portland, OR.
Depending on the weather and time of year, you want to be warm, so plan for the worst. On a cold rainy day, avoid wearing cotton shirts, socks, and pants. A fleece jacket, wool socks, and synthetic fibers are best for warmth in the water. If you call ahead, a wetsuit and booties can be rented for a small fee. Splash jackets are provided at no charge. On a hot day, a good swimsuit and sandals are fine.
Tipping is customary in the rafting industry, so plan to tip your guide (approx. $5 per passenger in your group). Our guides work hard to make sure our customers have a great river experience, so please share your appreciation!