Rolling on the River
If you’ve only experienced the beautiful North Umpqua River from the highway, maybe it’s time you boarded a raft and got a closer look and a thrilling ride
Story by B. Lane Johns Photos provided
Shimmering cutthroat trout rises from the watery depths to snatch a mayfly. An osprey attempts a high-speed dive to snare the same trout. Rays of sunshine filter through the canopy of old-growth timber. Whitewater rapids rumble in the distance.
Just another day at the office for Bill Blodgett, owner/operator of North Umpqua Outfitters. And even after nearly three decades, going to work is something Blodgett looks forward to every day.
North Umpqua Outfitters’ story begins back in 1986, with Blodgett road-tripping through the area. Coming around a curve on Oregon Highway 138 one afternoon, he was stunned by the beauty of a stretch of the North Umpqua and intrigued by the idea of rafting the wild, deep emerald waters surrounded by old-growth forest and abundant wildlife. He also decided it was too perfect not to be shared.
“I’ve been to New Zealand and South America and seen some really great rivers, but none compare to this one.”
— Bill Blodget
Thus a business was born, although Blodgett had to wait six years to be granted a permit from the U.S. Forest Service before he could start guiding parties through the whitewater on inflatable rafts. Blodgett headquartered his venture east of Roseburg in Idleyld Park, but it wasn’t long before he and his wife, Sharon, took the next step by adding Swiftwater Park Guesthouse — providing overnight lodging for rafting clients. Sharon took over that side of the business.
“I believe this area (Umpqua Valley) has such a great opportunity for recreational tourism,” Blodgett says. “It’s not overcrowded and it’s a comfortable environment and lifestyle. I’m lucky to get to be a part of it.”
Blodgett has the seasoned look of a guide who has spent countless days out on the river. But chat with him for a few minutes and it’s clear he not only looks the part, he lives it — both as a whitewater guide and as advocate for the river itself.
“This is a world-class river we have right in our backyard,” he says. “I’ve been to New Zealand and South America and seen some really great rivers, but none compare to this one.”
In 1968, Congress passed the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to preserve in a free-flowing condition certain rivers with outstanding natural, cultural and recreational values for the enjoyment of present and future generations. The upper North Umpqua is one of these designated waters.
“The geology in the area is awesome,” Blodgett says. “You can actually see how forces of nature shaped the river, and it continually changes as you get further down the river.”
The North Umpqua’s famous waters originate at Maidu Lake, the river’s high-Cascades source. The distinctive emerald green tints are produced by snowmelt held in the surrounding pumice and volcanic soil before being released.
The river’s course takes it through steep canyons lined by columnar basalt and spires, with large basalt boulders scattered along the way.
“Truth be told, this is Oregon’s best-kept whitewater secret,” Blodgett says. “The North Umpqua never runs out of water and has stable flows. It’s fantastic all season. These waters are great for the beginner up to the experienced whitewater paddler. With Class I through IV rapids and a scenic and wild section, it caters to everyone.”
Because of the whitewater’s diversity, North Umpqua Outfitters uses specialized rafts and inflatable kayaks, with top-rated equipment and safety gear. And while he may have started as a one-man operation, Blodgett has over the years brought in a bevy of outstanding guides.
“All of my guides are highly skilled and experienced with river running,” he says. “They have a long training period that also includes studying the local history and geography. Not only will they get you down the river safely, they are able to answer questions about the area.”
The river has no shortage of wildlife for viewing as rafters float by. Common sightings include bald eagles, otters, kingfishers, herons, several types of ducks and, occasionally, bears and elk. Osprey have been known to snag fish near the rafts.
And despite what can become familiar sights to rafters, water, weather, lighting and the overall experience make each downriver journey unique.
Now is the time to start planning that trip down the North Umpqua. Blodgett offers full-day, half-day and custom trips for individuals and groups. The trips range from action-packed water-soaked runs through serious rapids to more leisurely floats designed for observing wildlife.
“We strive to offer something for everyone,” he says.
For more information about North Umpqua Outfitters call 888.454.9696 or visit nuorafting.com
