Aerial view of guests rafting on the McKenzie River in Oregon with High Country Expeditions

Group of guests enjoying a guided rafting trip on Oregon's McKenzie River with paddles raised in celebration.

Children enjoying a family-friendly rafting trip on the McKenzie River in Oregon with High Country Expeditions

Guests enjoying a riverside lunch during a guided full-day rafting trip on the McKenzie River in Oregon.

Guests enjoying a guided rafting trip on Oregon's Wild and Scenic McKenzie River with High Country Expeditions.

McKenzie river rafting by Belknap Hot Springs

Large group enjoying a guided rafting trip on the Upper McKenzie River in Oregon with High Country Expeditions.

Guests dressed in colorful costumes before a McKenzie River rafting trip with High Country Expeditions in Oregon.

Guests floating through a crystal-clear eddy on Oregon's Wild and Scenic McKenzie River during a guided rafting trip.

Aerial view of Oregon's Wild and Scenic McKenzie River flowing through lush evergreen forest in the Cascade Mountains.

Guests enjoying a guided whitewater rafting trip on the McKenzie River in Oregon with High Country Expeditions.

Full-Day McKenzie River Rafting Trips

WHEN TO GO

April – October

DIFFICULTY

Class 2 to 3

TRIP LENGTH

Full day (6.5 hours)

PRICE

Adult $125 | Youth $97 (12 and under)

McKenzie River full-day rafting is the complete Upper McKenzie experience, more river miles, more scenery, and a relaxed pace. Based in McKenzie Bridge, High Country Expeditions delivers a family-focused trip with professional guides and top-tier safety. Guests staying at Belknap Hot Springs or along the McKenzie River corridor receive 10% off when they select their lodging during online booking.

Full-Day McKenzie River Rafting Near Eugene & Central Oregon

Our full-day, 22-mile McKenzie River rafting trip is a classic Upper McKenzie river adventure. Fun and exciting for beginners, families, and experienced river folks. The day starts at the same launch as our Half-Day McKenzie trips and finishes at Forest Glen near Blue River.

Expect a relaxed riverside lunch prepared by your guides, followed by more time on the water through beautiful stretches of river, lively Class II–III rapids, and occasional log jams. At Redsides, a popular local kayaker spot, you may get the chance to “surf” the play wave when conditions allow.

Book this Adventure

What to Expect on this Trip

Why Choose the Full-Day McKenzie River Trip

McKenzie Bridge Based: We run this stretch constantly, which means smoother logistics, better timing, and a more polished trip.
Same Launch as the 1/2 Day, Extended to Blue River: Start Frisell boat launch, located within the wild and scenic corridor and continue downstream all the way to Blue River.
Scenic Variety Along the Way: The final miles pass through portions of the 2020 Holiday Farm Fire burn zone, offering a unique look at the river corridor’s recovery and regrowth.
Swim & Play Sections: Great swimming stretches on hot days, plus plenty of time to relax and enjoy the river.
Surf “Redsides”: Fun surfing opportunities at Redsides, a well-known local kayaking surf wave (conditions dependent).
Three-Course Riverside Lunch Included: Fresh fruit, dips and veggies, a delicious seasonal main lunch, and a tasty dessert. Locally sourced veggies when possible.
Best Lunches on the River: We pride ourselves on serving some of the highest-quality river lunches anywhere.
Dietary Needs Welcome: We can accommodate most dietary restrictions. Please specify at the time of booking. Kid-friendly options always available.

Which McKenzie trip is right for you?

Not sure if the full-day is the best fit?
Our McKenzie River half-day trip is our most popular option for a reason. It includes plenty of whitewater, is easier to fit into your schedule, and is a great fit for most families, first-time rafters, and guests looking for a fun and memorable day on the river.

Choose the full-day trip if you want more river time, a riverside lunch, and a longer, more immersive McKenzie experience.

If you want to experience the full section of McKenzie River that we offer, our 2-day overnight trip is the most complete option.

Half-Day McKenzie River Rafting

Our most popular option for families and first-timers, offered twice daily, approx. 14 miles. All gear included.

Half-Day McKenzie Rafting

McKenzie 2-Day Overnight Trip

Experience the entire McKenzie river with riverside camping, meals, and full support.

2-Day McKenzie Overnight

High Country Expeditions rafts regrouping on the Upper McKenzie River after the first fun rapids in Oregon

Full-Day Itinerary

Meet & Check-In (9:00–9:15 am)
Arrive by 9:00 am for check-in, paperwork, and a quick guide intro before we load into our shuttles.

Gear-Up + Safety + Shuttle
We’ll shuttle to the boat launch, fit everyone with a PFD (life jacket), and offer optional rafting gear like wetsuits, neoprene booties, and paddle jackets. Then we’ll cover safety and paddling basics and split into guide-led groups before launching.

Morning River
Launch into the scenic Upper McKenzie, flowing through lush old-growth forest and fun Class II–III rapids at a comfortable pace.

Riverside Lunch Break
Stop mid-day for a relaxed riverside gourmet lunch. Time to refuel, stretch, and take in the river.

Afternoon River
Continue downstream for more whitewater, an ever changing landscape, and chances to spot wildlife. Conditions may allow extra play time at river features.

Take-Out + Return (3:30–4:00 pm)
Finish near Forest Glen/Blue River, then shuttle back to the meeting location. Typical return is 3:45–4:15 pm.

Family Notes
Family-friendly pacing with breaks and photo opportunities. Restrooms are available before launch and during the lunch stop.

Riverside Lunch Included

A premium adventure deserves a premium break. Our full-day trips include a relaxed riverside lunch so your group can recharge mid-day. We’re known for high-quality food made with fresh ingredients, often locally sourced, plus fresh fruit and satisfying options that both kids and adults enjoy.

Dietary needs & preferences: Please note dietary restrictions and allergies when booking. We’ll do our best to accommodate with advance notice.

Special occasions: Celebrating a birthday or special occasion? Add a note at booking or tell us on the phone so we can make it extra fun.

Meeting Locations & Directions

McKenzie River meeting locations are an easy drive from Eugene/Springfield, Sisters, Bend, Black Butte Ranch, and the Portland metro area, making this a convenient full-day adventure from across Oregon. From Eugene/Springfield and the University of Oregon area, it’s a straight shot up Hwy 126 into the McKenzie River corridor.

Trips meet at one of our designated locations:

McKenzie Bridge
Belknap Hot Springs/Belknap Resort overflow parking (when offered or selected during booking)

Detailed directions and travel-time guidance are provided in your confirmation letter after booking. Please review it before your trip.

What’s Included

Professional river guides and a thorough safety briefing
Rafting equipment: raft, paddles, and PFDs (life jackets)
Dry bags provided for guests on all trips
Optional river gear (as conditions require): wetsuits, neoprene booties, and splash/paddle jackets
Helmets available by request (not typically needed on the McKenzie, just let us know and we’ll bring them)
Transportation & shuttle logistics during the trip (as needed for the full-day route)
Riverside lunch included on full-day trips

What to Wear/Bring on the river

Quick-dry layers (avoid cotton)
Secure footwear that can get wet (water shoes or strap sandals; no flip-flops)
Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses (with a retainer), and a hat
Reusable water bottle
Any personal medications you may need (inhaler, EpiPen, etc.)

Nice to have

Extra warm layer for cooler mornings
Small snacks for kids
Change of clothes and a towel for after the trip (leave in your car)

Cameras & Phones

Small waterproof cameras and phones are welcome. We recommend using a secure case or strap and keeping devices stowed when you’re in rapids.

Kids & Youth Sizing

We recommend ages 4+ and 35 lbs+. Kids must fit our youth PFDs (life jackets), please call us for specific guidance and we’ll help you confirm the best fit for your child.

Cooler Days & Gear Notes
Spring and fall trips can feel cool with splash and breeze. We provide 3mm wetsuits, neoprene booties, and paddle jackets on every trip. Wear quick-dry layers underneath, and let us know if you tend to run cold so we can help you dial in the right setup. We provide dry bags for every trip, so you can pack a beanie, fleece, or extra warm layer to stay comfortable if the weather shifts. This is especially recommended for kids.

Why Raft with High Country Expeditions?

High Country Expeditions has been guiding Oregon rivers since 1999. From the lush, forested beauty of the Upper McKenzie river to the warm high-desert canyons of the Deschutes river and the rugged, wild character of the Upper Klamath, we offer all-inclusive rafting trips with top-tier gear, experienced guides, and exceptional riverside meals. As a locally owned, founder-led outfitter based in Central Oregon, we design every trip to be safe, seamless, and truly memorable.

Your Trip, Designed Around You

From family rafting trips and multi-day adventures to group getaways, weddings, and company retreats, we build river experiences around your group. Whether you are planning a fun whitewater day on the Upper McKenzie, a sunny high-desert canyon trip on the Deschutes, or an exhilarating trip on the dam-free Upper Klamath, our team handles the details so you can focus on the river.

Notes on Pricing

• Federal land use & carbon fees are added at booking ($5 per guest on day trips; $30 on multi-day trips and courses).
• Group and return guest discounts available.
• Youth rates apply to guests 12 and under.

Why Choose Us?Trip Planning River Map Booking & Cancellation

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