The White River from the White River Bridge to Tygh Valley runs through a beautiful isolated river canyon. Because of the isolation, potential for logs, and being in a deep canyon, extra care should be taken and only experienced paddlers should attempt this 11 mile stretch.
The river is really a composite of three unique stretches all three of which have wonderful scenery. For the first 3 miles the river is a quick continuous class 2 to low 3 creek. Quick maneuvering is required and the eddies are small. This leads you to the slower class 2 middle section which is located in a wonderful balsalt canyon. Be sure to enjoy the flowers and wildlife. When the gradient begins to increase, you are entering the more difficult white water section. In the middle of this stretch lies a difficult class 3 rapid called "Truth or Consequences". It can be identified by a rock slide on river right. The scout is on the right and portaging is possible but difficult. The rapid ends with a log jam in the center of the river forcing paddlers to take one of two routes, each of which can be partially blocked by wood. This rapid can be hazardous so do not take it lightly because it is rated class 3. Just below this rapid is "Rock and Roll" (class -4). This is a boulder filled rapid that disappears around a left bend. Below this is a mile long stretch of class 3 white water called "Grand Finale" followed by a few miles of moving water. When you pass the log home on the right, you are leaving the canyon and are within a mile of the take out. |
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