The Rogue River in southwestern Oregon runs for about 350 km starting near Crater Lake and continuing all the way to the Pacific Ocean. It is known for the sport fishing, white water rafting, and incredible scenery it offers.
I spent a lot of time at, on, and in the river this summer. The "in" might only be because I didn't see this first...
...but by the time I did see that guy mounted on the wall at the local gas station, I was already enthralled and, be it from raft or courtesy of Hellgate Jet Boat Excursions, there is no going back once you've given your heart over to the Rogue.
Keep in mind, people actually live here.
In fact, specifically, people live HERE:
and here
and here
and here:
Yup, that's a house built into the trees: an actual, bonified, treehouse.
Right on the river.
My envy is absolutely immeasurable.
And people aren't the only ones living the river.
Blue herons,
innumberable ducks and Canada geese,
an otter I did not get a picture of,
and the occasional deer.
The river does not lack for means of entertainment either.
Hellgate Jet Boat Excursions tours two or three times a day.
Jet skiers,
water skiers,
swimmers,
rafters,
and kayakers abound.
These particular kayakers were short on beer. We resolved that for them and had a quick chat before they happily went on their way. Of note: full cans of Keystone Light will float.
When all else fails, mid-way through a 17.5km, 7-hour float, a friendly game of rummy on the raft will occupy you through the flats... at least until the jet boats come through and soak your life with a wave that will take your breath away.
Only if egged on by your crew, of course.
GLORIOUS
On various occasions, I eased in, was coaxed in, jumped in, and was pushed in, to the river. I left a pair of sunglasses somewhere on the bottom, and got a crazy mix of sunburn lines.
But the things I took away were so much more valuable: adventure, comraderie, and memories that will last a lifetime.
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