QUESTIONS WE GET ASKED A LOT
For almost all our trips, you will want to wear a swimsuit, board shorts, and water shoes. Quick dry shirts are recommended, and water sandals such as Chacos make a great option. Extra layers will be dependent on the weather. See the list of What to Bring for more details.
As in any professional service, a great river experience provided by your guide may merit a gratuity. Our guides aim to provide excellent service throughout your entire trip and will always continue that aim, tipped or not. If you want to give an extra ‘thank you’ to your guide, they won’t turn it down!
Part of the charm and excitement of whitewater rafting comes from the risks. Having the right equipment and being led by our experienced river guides allows you to enjoy the thrill of the river in the midst of fluctuating water levels, weather, and other variables that can be difficult to predict. Forward Paddle guides are trained to minimize the risks and follow safety protocol should a situation present itself. With the risks that come with rafting, every boater must turn in an Assumption of Risk form prior to their trip. When boaters follow the direction of their guide, the Deschutes River is an exciting, safe adventure.
No! Every boater is provided a U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (life jacket) designed to keep you afloat should you go in the water. River safety technique is thoroughly covered before you get in the raft, and every Forward Paddle guide is trained in swiftwater rescue. Many of our guests are afraid of the water at the beginning of their trip and love it by the end.
For your safety and ours, no alcohol or illegal drugs are permitted before or during the trip. Alcohol and drugs are the cause of the vast majority of river deaths and injuries. Besides, the river offers enough excitement in itself!
Please let us know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions, and we will be happy to accommodate you.
There are specific rules and regulations for whitewater personal flotation devices (life jackets). Common water-skiing and wakeboarding PFDs do not meet the specifications for whitewater rafting. We recommend wearing the ones that we provide. Please contact us before coming to the river if you have a questions about your PFD.
One of the saying we like to joke about is, “The river gives, and the river takes.” The river offers much fun and enjoyment, but there is always the chance of losing whatever item you choose to bring on the boat. Waterproof cameras and GoPros are great ways to capture the fun, but Forward Paddle assumes no responsibility should those be lost on the river. Please keep in mind that we have a photographer on almost all of our trips, and photos are available to you after.
Our 14 foot boats accommodate 6-8 guests, and our 16 foot boats accommodate 8-10.
While it is sunny and beautiful in Maupin for a majority of the summer, there is always the chance of rain or other “bad” weather on the day of your trip. The river is actually pretty fun in the rain, but if inclement weather makes being on the river an unsafe adventure, your trip will be re-scheduled for a better day.
In order to meet our youth life jacket requirements, children must weigh a minimum of 50 pounds and be at least four years old. We pride ourselves on safety, so if your child meets these requirements you can be assured that we will take care of them, and they will have a great time on the river!
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