Whitewater Classifications

Over the length of your professionally guided whitewater rafting trip on the Deschutes River in Oregon, you will float some calm waters, but you will also come across some adrenaline-pumping Class IV rapids that test the skills of even the most advanced whitewater rafters. However, there are plenty of intermediate routes, which offer less risky thrills, and most of the Class III and IV rapids can easily be avoided. Sage Canyon River Co. offers a variety of professionally guided whitewater rafting trips on the Deschutes River in Oregon.

Degree of Difficulty

The rapids which you will encounter on your journey down the Deschutes River range in difficulty from very simple to somewhat challenging and typically consist of between Class I, II, and III rapids, with a few Class IV rapids depending on which river route you take.

• Class I – Easy. Fast moving water with riffles and small waves.
• Class II – Novice. Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels.
• Class III – Intermediate. Strong eddies and current, requiring skilled maneuvering.
• Class IV – Advanced. Powerful but predictable rapids requiring precise boat handling in turbulent water.
• Class V – Expert. Long, obstructed, or violent rapids which expose paddlers to a high degree of danger, requiring expertise and reliable equipment for safe passage.
• Class VI – Unrunnable. Likelihood of death, or destruction of equipment in attempting class 6 runs.