Cradled among the picturesque peaks of the Cascades flows a haven for water lovers: the Santiam River. Located just 30 minutes from Salem and 90 minutes from Portland, the tributary (along with its North Santiam River offshoot) offers a wide range of activities for locals and travelers alike. Class II and III rapids are made for whitewater thrill seekers, while inner tubers, swimmers and those looking for scenic views might want to relax at Detroit Lake State Recreation Area or Mill City Falls Park, by the historic bridge. Years after the 2020 wildfires left a major impact here, local communities invite visitors to book a stay, enjoy a great meal and and get out and raft and boat safely in the Santiam canyon. Here’s how to do just that.
Take a Guided Trip
As you drive along Highway 22 from Salem to Idanha, you’ll see views of Mt. Jefferson to the east. You’ll see the sparkling blue Santiam River as it parallels the highway through the Santiam State Forest for many miles, then the boaters and RVers flocking to Detroit Lake. The forest burn is visible, with downed and charred trees, and construction underway.
However, the forest has begun to regenerate, and communities are welcoming visitors back. “There’s green along the river, in the understory, since the burn,” says Sam Drevo, extreme kayaking champion and director of Northwest River Guides and eNRG Kayaking, which offers whitewater rafting and kayaking tours seven days a week, with 2.5-hour river runs out of Mill City.
Working with local outfitters is another excellent way to support the community. It also ensures peace of mind and a safe trip. Trips also include all equipment and gear for a no-hassle experience. In the North Fork area it’s an especially wise choice to go with a guide, because downed trees and other hazards mean it’s more dangerous and harder to be rescued.
Launching from North Santiam State Park, Oregon River Experiences is a family-friendly (kids age 6+) outfitter, leading participants on intermediate whitewater trips in the spring and beginner river excursions in the summer and fall. Blue Sky Rafting offers half-day rafting experiences on North Santiam’s beginner rapids for adults and children ages 4 and up.
With trout and summer steelhead returning to the river, fishing trips with local guides like Fisherman Mike’s are perfect for anglers of all experience levels.
If you go on your own, paddlers can put in at the Packsaddle County Park boat ramp and head 5 miles downriver to Mill City Falls Park to boat along the lower stretch of the Santiam. Or use the boat launch at North Santiam State Recreation Area. When in doubt, check with the Detroit Ranger District which put-in and take-out locations are open.
Pizza, Burgers, Ice Cream and More
Many food and drink establishments in the canyon area were impacted by the recent wildfire but are building back and eager to extend a warm welcome to visitors. Consider stopping in on your way to or from an adventure in the canyon.
All Good Things is a local classic, serving diner comfort food including biscuits and gravy, stacked sandwiches and house-made potato salad. In Mehama The Gingerbread House has a little bit of everything for hungry road-trippers, including burgers, gingerbread and soft-serve ice cream. Pop in next door for some light shopping at Farmhouse Teas, where you’ll find organic looseleaf tea blends and other curated home goods.
In Mill City, businesses like Giovanni Mountain Pizza, Rosie’s Mountain Coffee House and Mill City Grill and The Get-A-Way welcome visitors with road-trip-worthy comfort foods. You’ll also find four electric-vehicle charging stations for your convenience.
In nearby Gates, family-owned Sierra Mexican Restaurant serves up favorites like sizzling fajitas, tamales and tacos. Pull over at Bailey’s Bark & Brew coffee cart for your next caffeine fix as well as smoothies and treats like churros, pretzels and cheese and biscuits and gravy.
Where to Stay
There are lots of ways to extend your stay in the canyon. Campgrounds are in different stages of recovery, so make sure to verify that they’ll be open and book in advance. Try Santiam Flats Campground, or if you prefer to be indoors, The Lodge at Detroit Lake and Breitenbush Hot Springs offer cozy rooms. Nearby RV parks include Sweetbrier Train & RV Park in Lyons, Camp Benadoo RV park in Gates, Lakeview RV Park in Detroit, and River Mountain RV Park in Idanha.
Tips for the Best Experience
Whether looking for adventure or to stave off the summer heat, here are some tips to brush up on before venturing out.
- If rafting or kayaking, make sure to wear a helmet and a personal flotation device. All guides and outfitters supply this equipment, or you can find them for purchase at sporting goods and outdoor stores. Learn about PFD fit and safety from the Oregon State Marine Board before purchasing.
- The river can get crowded, especially on weekends. As summer temperatures rise, more visitors flock to the area, so go early in the day or midweek when possible.
- If you love Santiam Canyon in the summer, consider visiting in winter for a snowy wonderland experience. The location is a great jumping-off point for snowmobile trails facilitated by the North Santiam Snowmobile Club, as well as skiing nearby at Hoodoo Ski Area and world-class backcountry skiing for the especially adventurous at Mt. Jefferson.
