Enjoy our wonderful waterways with some of Central Oregon’s top river tours

Between whitewater rapids and glassy high mountain lakes, Central Oregon and the Deschutes River Basin feature river adventures for all ages and skill levels.

Here’s some of our favorite guided tours in the area as the summer winds down and fall ramps up.

Tumalo Creek & Kayak’s Upper Deschutes River Kayak Tour
Escape the crowds and explore the Upper Deschutes approximately an hour’s drive south of Bend. Tour participants explore vast stretches of the Deschutes National Forest by boat on a pristine and mostly undeveloped section of the Deschutes River.

A fantastic day adventure for visitors wanting to immerse themselves in the local scenery, this excursion is enjoyed by beginning paddlers of all ages as well as those more experienced. Tumalo Creek provides transportation to the launch site, equipment, guides, basic instruction and lunch. The Upper Deschutes River Kayak Tour is suggested as a relaxing outing for visitors and locals of all ages and skill levels.

The Big Eddy Thriller with Sun Country Tours
Create unforgettable memories during your visit to Central Oregon with this iconic whitewater rafting trip on the Deschutes River just minutes from Bend. This trip easily fits into a morning or afternoon, and kids as young as 6 will enjoy 3 miles of Class III rapids. You and your family will take in the high desert scenery with old-growth forest, lava rock formations and if you’re lucky, the occasional osprey.

Cascade Lakes Canoe Tour with Wanderlust Tours
Join Wanderlust on this epic paddling tour on the high elevation mountain lakes in the mighty Cascade Range. Their renowned naturalist guides will highlight the sweet spots on these stunning lakes that might not initially meet the eye. Be sure to watch out for otter, mink, osprey and eagles, and bring a camera for the best mountain views in Central Oregon!

Guests spend more than 2 hours on the water for relaxation and soaking in the beauty. Wear your swimsuit for a refreshing dip! You’ll see parts of these large lakes that are only accessible by paddling into the fingers, coves, bays, and wetlands created by ancient eruptions and erosion. With sweeping views of the Three Sisters, Broken Top, or Paulina Peak, these canoe tours have it all!