TripAdvisor Traveler Rating based on
17 reviews
Enjoy an action packed rafting or kayaking adventure with North Umpqua Outfitters. Choose from full day, half day and two day trips.
TripAdvisor
I have been on many tours and hired many guides to kayak the rivers of the west in 8 states. This was the only time I was honestly afraid for my safety -- not due to the river but the lack of concern showed for my safety by the owner-guide. When I flipped going through a rapid, I was cursed at for being slow to recover and for being unable to get back on my boat. When I tried to recover my breath and allow my heart to slow down to avoid a possible heart-attack, I was screamed at and told that my struggles would be not be accepted because (and I quote the owner-guide) "we have a schedule to keep." My advice: go with another company that will value your safety more than they do keeping to a schedule.
We were a party of 2, joined by a party of 3 in one raft. Guide was experienced but new to this river. 2 weeks experience on the Umpqua. After quick instructions, we set out and flipped almost immediately. Very scary. With nary a pause to regroup or get more instruction or understanding of how it happened we were off again- only to completely flip again! It was terrifying, being submerged and then gasping for air. We were picked up by another raft and deposited on shore to hold the rescuers raft while they went help the guide. She was trapped between a log and the raft, and it took the other guide, owner, and the other rafters to save her. It was a very close call for her. Had other rafters not rescued us, we would have been at the mercy of the rapids and surely lost. Company owner had lunch with us while tending to guide. No personal attention to anyone else that I noticed. We 5 were in fact fine, but traumatized to an extent. He is a nice guy and I'm sure an excellent guide himself, but suggest he make sure his employees get more than 2 weeks experience on this river before sending them off with customers. Our compensation? A rain check for what the owner described as our trip being shortened "by the guide's injuries". In an e-mail exchange she told me that the guide let her know "she didn't get the paddle strokes she asked for". Wow. Yes we were aware of the danger, and signed a waiver. That said, it seems perhaps the company might have apologized personally and asked how we were, maybe checked in with us the next day. A rain check is far less than we deserved for a day like that one.
we loved it! there were four in our group, 2 dads and 2 sons. we were looking for something with a little more adventure than backpacking (we love backpacking, but it does lack thrills 90% of the time) so we picked north umpqua outfitters. i've used other rafting services before but i can easily say, nuo had the best customer service (whoever answers the phone actually speaks like they want your business and want you to have a great time and bill, the owner and chauffer, is a great guy who also works to keep you happy!), the best equipment (looked new or very little used to me), and the best guides/captains (dave had the right balance between "surfer dude" casual and "you could die doing that, please think twice" serious attitude. we had a lot of fun, the kids (and adults) had thrills. it's the best experience i've had on this river (i've floated it several times). be prepared for hot sun (you will get sunburned if you don't cover up or put on sunscreen) and cold water (i couldn't believe how each splash felt shockingly cold!). i highly recommend these outfitters, i know i will use them again. enjoy!
Went out with Bill and team for a half day on North Umpqua River. Very well organised, staff super knowledgable on the region, and experienced rafters. Had an amazing time.
Lots of rapids with just enough drifting between to get ready for the next one. Bill was a great guide and you can tell he loves what he does. We drove an hour+ to get there and it was totally worth it. Nice equipment. Efficient transport back to your car. Great value.