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Southern Oregon’s Troon Vinyard will supply wine for our Farm to Fork 4-day Rogue River trip and owner Chris Martin will be along to introduce the wines and answer questions. There wines have won a ton of awards and they follow organic principles and aspire to a closed loop, sustainable farming environment. No herbicides or pesticides are used, and all tending of the vines is done by hand. They are also the producers of “River Guide Red” and “River Guide White” and are dedicated to the pursuit of “good times and fine wines.” We can’t think of a better paring for this trip!
A unique and amazing way to experience the world famous Rogue River, do a multi-day wilderness run without all the gear or planning, and train for something bigger. We are very excited about this trip!
3 - Days May 20th - 22nd Price - $725 Running Guides: Leland Fulton, Erik Skaggs, and Jenn Shelton of Rogue Valley Runners Who is this trip for? Trail runners capable of running 20 to 26 miles per day / Runners training for the Western States 100. If you have any questions about your ability to do this trip please call or email and we will get you in contact with Leland.
Join runners Leland Fulton, Erik Skaggs, and Jenn Shelton of Rogue Valley Runners and Momentum River Expeditions on a 3-Day Adventure Run along Oregon’s Wild and Scenic Rogue River. Combine the world famous Rogue River Trail with plush raft supported river side camping and gourmet meals.
The Rogue River is an iconic American classic; one of the world’s great wilderness rivers, a founding member of the National Wild and Scenic River System, and a river with such a grand reputation that in some circles it is simply known as “the Canyon”. The Rogue River National Recreation Trail from Grave Creek to Foster Bar cuts through the heart of the canyon and offers stunning views of the river and unique access to a wilderness playground that is home to a staggering amount of wildlife.
Runners will be guided by Leland, Erik, and Jen and each day will range from relatively flat 20 mile runs to challenging 20+ mile runs with large elevation gains. This is a raft supported trip and runners do not need to carry anything except for water and snacks (all personal overnight clothing will be transported by raft). Each afternoon we will arrive at a fully set-up and very comfortable wilderness river side camp where you can hang out in the river, play beach games, or just relax and take it all in. Appetizers and diner will be served under the stars followed by an evening around the campfire and a good nights sleep.
This trip is a unique and amazing way to experience the world famous Rogue River, do a multi-day wilderness run without all the gear or planning, and train for something bigger. We are very excited about this trip!
The trip includes:
• Raft support for food, gear, and personal items
• All camping gear (including ultra-comfortable 3″ sleeping pads).
• Return transportation back to Galice, Oregon. Transportation can also be arranged from Ashland, Oregon.
• All meals and snacks beginning with lunch on day one and ending with lunch on day 4, including gourmet 3 course meals featuring local and organic produce & products. Find out more • World-Class river guides with a minimum of 8 years experience leading trips around the globe. Find out more • Expert running guides with a unique knowledge of the area and the world of long distance running.
• An adventure run down one of the world’s great wilderness river corridors!
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1:
Our trip starts near Grants Pass, Oregon at the Galice Resort, located along the banks of the Rogue River. Here we will help you pack your dry bags and get any last minute “must haves” at the resort. We then head to the river and the trail head, meet the crew, and do a thorough orientation talk. After loading our gear into the boats we will begin our run. For three days we will run along the Rogue as it cuts through the remote and wild Siskiyou Mountain Range. The canyon is home to abundant wildlife including bear, river otter, dear, bald eagles, and osprey. The first day is roughly 20 miles and for the most part closely follows the river. It includes Rainy Falls, the historic Whiskey Creek minor’s cabin, Windy and Kelsey Creek Canyons, some beautiful side creeks with great swimming options, and Zane Grays Cabin. Each night we will camp along the river on sandy beaches or grassy flats. The first afternoon we will have a “camp talk” and go over everything you need to know about our comfortable wilderness camping. Afternoons can be spent swimming, playing bocce ball, or just relaxing. In the evening we will enjoy our first dinner and a night under the stars.
Day 2:
After a hearty breakfast and plenty of time for a second cup of coffee we will head down the trail. Day 2 is up to 26 miles depending on how far people go. We leave the immediate canyon and head up the spectacular Mule Creek Trail and, depending on runners’ preferences, go all the way to Hanging Rock on the north end of Panther Ridge Trail. We then retrace our route back to the river (allowing for runners to customize their day). After another big dinner (we are well known and proud of our meals!) we will get a good night’s sleep in preparation for a big day three.
Day 3:
Day 3 is roughly 20 miles depending on what runners decide to do. We head into the narrow and spectacular Mule Creek Canyon. Mule Creek Canyon is one of the most unique canyons in the world, and for many it is the highlight of the trip. The infamous and feared Blossom Bar rapid follows. Blossom Bar was dynamited in the early 1900’s to allow boats passage. After Blossom is the beautiful Huggins canyon, a side run up to a canyon overlook, and eventually the end of the trip and transportation back to Galice or Ashland.
Note: This area is a stunning river running playground with tons of options. We keep our itinerary somewhat flexible to accommodate trail conditions, weather, and our guests.
There will only be 15 spaces available so: Call 541 488 2525 or Book Online Here
Testimonials:
“Unrivaled as a Commercial Rafting Company - Pete Wallstrom, the owner of Momentum River Expeditions, puts his years of experience and expertise into the management of what just might be the best commercial rafting company in North America. The trips are spectacular beyond description, the guides are the best of the best, the food is incomparable, and the customers are treated like royalty.” Read more>>
We are not sure, but a river trip is pretty cool!
And it is a very unique gift for the adventurous, for those that like to take vacations, and for those that really need to take vacations. It is also a great way to invite someone on a trip with you!
Types of Gift Certificates: 1.You can give one for a specific dollar amount (kind of like “Momentum Bucks”). 2.You can give one for a specific river (and the recipient can choose the date). 3.Or you give one for a specific trip and date.
The recipients will receive the gift certificate, a Momentum brochure, and if it is for a river or specific trip a sample confirmation pack with trip information, packing list, etc.
Right now we are giving 10% off for any Gift Certificate ordered by December 3rd.
-Your name -Your phone number -The recipients name -The amount or trip -Where you want it sent to (you or the recipient) and the address.
We will then send you an invoice and get your gift mailed out!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines…. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
– Mark Twain
A unique and amazing way to experience the world famous Rogue River, experience remarkable artisan meals featuring food and wine from the Southern Oregon region, and support local farming.
4 - Days June 20th - 23rd Price - $1095 (25% goes to Farm to Fork, local farms, and Friends of Family Farmers) Guest Chef: Matthew Domingo - Farm to Fork Event Director and Chef Who is this trip for? Anyone who loves the wilderness, amazing food, and the local small farm movement! The rapids are from Class III to IV-. There are boat options for everyone from 7 to 80+ to years old. No experience is necessary.
Join Farm to Fork and Momentum River Expeditions on a 4-Day Farm to Fork Rafting Trip on Oregon’s Wild and Scenic Rogue River. Combine the world famous Rogue River with artisan meals straight from the Southern Oregon farms and support the local farming movement! We are so excited about this trip!
The Rogue River is an iconic American classic; one of the world’s great summer wilderness trips, a founding member of the National Wild and Scenic River System, and a river with such a grand reputation that in some circles it is simply known as “the Canyon”. It flows through an area rich with pioneer history and lore - some of it surviving to this day. The canyon itself is a stunning wilderness playground that is home to a staggering amount of wildlife and abundant whitewater.
Farm to Fork Events, is a traveling farm-to-table restaurant, local food fundraiser, and community celebration rolled into one. Farm to Fork Events are designed to reconnect people to the source of their food, and to honor the talented farmers, food artisans, winemakers, and chefs that contribute to the growing culinary reputations and local food communities of Southern Oregon.They began in 2010 to rave reviews, a very excited local community, and ending up selling out every dinner.We are very excited to work with them!
Mathew Domingo, Farm to Fork Event Director & Chef, will host the trip along with a local farmer. Each evening we will float to our river side camp and enjoy three course dinners paired with local wine. The dinners will be served under the stars in our “wilderness dining room”. Each dinner is inspired by the local harvest and will feature local meats and produce.
Southern Oregon’s Troon Vinyard will supply wine for the trip and owner Chris Martin will be along to introduce the wines and answer questions. There wines have won a ton of awards and they follow organic principles and aspire to a closed loop, sustainable farming environment. No herbicides or pesticides are used, and all tending of the vines is done by hand. They are also the producers of “River Guide Red” and “River Guide White” and are dedicated to the pursuit of “good times and fine wines.” We can’t think of a better paring for this trip!
25% of the proceeds will go towards Local Farms (we will buy directly from them), Farm to Fork, and Friends of Family Farmers.
The trip includes: • All river equipment.
• All camping gear (including ultra-comfortable 3″ sleeping pads).
• Return transportation back to Galice, Oregon. Transportation can also be arranged from Ashland, Oregon.
• All meals beginning with lunch on day one and ending with lunch on day 4, including gourmet 3-course “Farm to Fork” dinners prepared by Chef Mathew Domingo.
• Wine pairings from Southern Oregon’s award winning Troon Vinyard and introduced by owner Chris Martin.
• World-Class guides with a minimum of 8 years experience leading trips around the globe. Find out more >>
• A trip down one of the world’s great summer wilderness rivers combined with artisan meals straight from Southern Oregon farms.
This trip is a unique and amazing way to experience the world famous Rogue River, experience remarkable artisan meals featuring food and wine from the Southern Oregon region, and support local farming.
There will only be 21 spaces available so: Call 541 488 2525 or Book Online Here
Find out about the Local Farms and Companies who’s food will be featured: - Troon Vinyard: Troon Vineyard will be providing award winning wines from Southern Oregon. Troon is known for its love of ‘good times & fine wines’ and Chris Martin, the winery owner, will be on the trip to share the wine and stories of previous owner, Dick Troons, long love affair with the Rogue River (they have a “River Guide Red” and “River Guide White” - Perfect!). They also follow organic principles and aspire to a closed loop, sustainable farming environment. No herbicides or pesticides are used, and all tending of the vines is done by hand.
- More Coming soon…. Mathew is working on the menu as we speak!
Farm To Fork Events: “From the red wine braised beef amuse bouche to the rhubarb compote coupled with French press Ethiopian coffee, the evening was a delightful success blending fine food, wine, and company into a setting that allowed for education around sustainable living and fostering a stronger sense of community in the Rogue Valley.” Read more>>
Momentum River Expeditions: “Unrivaled as a Commercial Rafting Company - Pete Wallstrom, the owner of Momentum River Expeditions, puts his years of experience and expertise into the management of what just might be the best commercial rafting company in North America. The trips are spectacular beyond description, the guides are the best of the best, the food is incomparable, and the customers are treated like royalty.” Read more>>
The “Save the Wild Rogue” campaign is so close to working. The proposed protections have broad community support. Earlier this year, in an historic agreement, the main timber industry lobby group agreed to drop their opposition to protecting this 58,000-acre Wilderness.
However, the elections are over and if Oregon’s elected leaders in Congress don’t take action in the next two months, all of the progress to safeguard these special places may be lost for years to come.
The Wild Rogue Wilderness proposal would safeguard the salmon bearing streams and forested slopes in Oregon’s second highest producing salmon watershed. Once again, these proposed protections have broad community support. Earlier this year, in an historic agreement, the main timber industry lobby group agreed to drop their opposition to protecting this 58,000-acre Wilderness.
Save the Wild Rogue:
The Rogue is one of America’s most famous wilderness rivers. A coalition of local and national outdoor industry businesses, rafting and angling companies and conservationists launched a campaign in 2007 to strengthen protections for the Lower Rogue River. The “Save the Wild Rogue” campaign proposes to protect the tributaries of the Zane Grey Roadless Area. For those who have been on the river these tributaries are the beautiful, cool, side streams that we stop at to hang out by and swim in. In June 2009, bills were introduced in the U.S. House and Senate to add 143 miles of Rogue tributaries to the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. This legislation would safeguard tributaries that provide important cold water to the Rogue River and valuable fish habitat for salmon that migrate upstream from the Pacific.
Recent economic studies by ECONorthwest found that, in 2007, recreation on the river provided $30 million in economic benefits to the state of Oregon through fishing, rafting and hiking. In total, the studies determined that Rogue River salmon runs provide more than $1.5 billion in economic benefits to West Coast Residents each year, including the ‘non-use value’ of these fish. This is essentially the monetary value people place on the existence of a natural resource, the ability to pass it on to future generations, and the option to use it in the future.
The “Save the Wild Rogue” campaign is so close to working. A compromise was made with the timber industry to use a wilderness designation as opposed to a Wild and Scenic designation. It is a little confusing – the wilderness designation offers even better protection, but it is a precedence issue for the timber industry. Now, there is no organized opposition to the proposed legislation to expand the Wild Rogue Wilderness – this includes the American Forest Resource Council; a timber industry coalition who’s president said “It’s something that makes sense — we won’t oppose this,” It is another win-win situation and the only thing keeping it from happening is that Congress has yet to introduce the legislation.
Check out www.savethewildrogue.org for more info.
Once again this is something where there is no local organized opposition – we are just waiting on Congress – a little push from all of us might be all it takes!
This Saturday we celebrated the removal of Gold Ray Dam on the Rogue River with a “Victory Float” organized by Rogue River Keepers. It was a foggy and cool but beautiful fall day – the perfect weather to see the many spawning salmon!
The stretch of river above what was the reservoir is absolutely beautiful. Lots of gravel bars for the spawning Salmon, fall colors, and vistas of Table Rock and the Siskiyous – definitely a hidden gem. The newly freed stretch of river that was once under the backwaters shows the scars and debris of many years under water. However the river, along with help from restoration projects , is already re-establishing itself and beginning to clean up the area. A little winter flooding will help a ton and by next year the banks should be green and alive! It was a really unique experience to see a stretch of river that only a month ago was buried under a reservoir.
There was also a clean-up effort going on the same day and we got to help out on some of the lower stretches.
It was amazing to see a happier, freer flowing Rogue! Look for a new one day trip combining this section with the Nugget section coming soon!
World-Class River Trips Oregon,
Northern California, and beyond…
the Illinois River - lower canyons in early spring. The cover photo of our 2010 brochure.
Spring is here!
Well…
Kind of…
We continue to get late snow with what looks to be the last real round today and tomorrow. In between the winter weather we have been very lucky with perfect weather on our spring trips – our weekend trip on the Scott had blue sky and temps in the 70’s!
We usually talk mostly about our summer trips in the spring newsletter. However, the late snow means that we are looking at one of the best spring seasons we have ever had. The snow pack on our spring rivers is WAY above average so if you have not already taken advantage of one of our spring trips give us a call. There will be plenty of water on some of the best rivers in the country. We have mid May Lower Owyhee trips that still have space, late May and early June class 5 California Salmon trips with a little space (including a new rapid), and we have two Illinois trips with a few spots left (it was written up in Outside Magazine this year!).
Summer is coming up fast and like last year there are some really good flight deals. Below there is info on our summer trips and flight deals. Remember – our trips are fully outfitted so no need to check bags and pay extra! Our Rogue Wilderness trips are getting very full – we have listed trip dates with the space remaining at the end. There is also info on our late summer trip to British Columbia (one of the longest stretches of whitewater anywhere – we are excited!).
Definitely the best big water summer whitewater in the west!
Enjoy our new newsletter style – bigger photos – and hopefully we will get a chance to see you all this spring or summer!
Kind Regards,
Pete and the staff of
Momentum River Expeditions
“What makes a river so restful to people is that it doesn’t have any doubt - it is sure to get where it is going, and it doesn’t want to go anywhere else.”
Hal Boyle
Summer Trips
mule creek canyon on the Rogue
Rogue River 3 to 4-Day Wilderness Trips One of the world’s great summer wilderness trips with rapids and craft choices that make it almost unmatched in its ability to satisfy a wide range of tastes and skill levels. We offer 3-day lodge trips where nights are spent in comfortable and rustic wilderness lodges and 4-day camp trips where nights are spent under the stars. We also offer custom 3 to 5-day trips for groups and charter trips.
This is a great trip to combine with a good flight deal and a trip to Crater Lake or the Coast and the redwoods. We can help with a ton of planning advice and recommendations!
The Rogue an extremely regulated river and many of our dates are full. At the bottom of this email is a list of trip dates and space left.
Call or email if you are interested and find out more and book trips online at our Rogue River Page.
Ahhhh… the Upper K….
Summer on the Upper Klamath When Momentum first started the Upper Klamath and the Cal Salmon were the rivers that first drew us to this area. We quickly learned that we were only scratching the surface, but they continue to be “gateway” trips for many of our other rivers. For many the Upper Klamath is a yearly pilgrimage (along with a Shakespeare play) and it is definitely the most exciting summer class-IV day trip in the West – it is just really really fun! Join us and see why this run’s fame and popularity grows every year. We have day trips on almost every day except Wednesday’s or you can check out a weekend 2-day trip.
You can also take advantage of Allegiant Air’s Friday/Monday schedule – a weekend in Ashland plus the Upper K!
The Chilko, Chilcotin and Fraser Rivers - a 7 Day Journey into the Wilderness of British Columbia!
Join us on August 29th for a 7-day journey down the Chilko, Chilcotin and Fraser Rivers - a trip unmatched in its scenic diversity and huge stretches of class IV whitewater. Big John, Farwell, and Lava Canyons; the continent’s longest stretch of commercially navigable whitewater; bighorn sheep, grizzly bear, wolves, and birds of all types; all set in the legendary wilderness of British Columbia.
I am so excited for this trip - if you have any questions please give me a call or an email!
Late Spring Lower Owyhee 6-day Inflatable Kayaking Expedition Six days immersed in one of the most remote, wild, and beautiful areas of the United States. Six days of paddling, hiking, and exploring the “Grand Canyon of Oregon” at a time and in a way that few have ever enjoyed it! One of the most unique trips offered anywhere. Join us this June!
As we said in the beginning this is going to be an amazing spring! If you are into last minute planning we still have some space on our Lower Owyhee trips – the Grand Canyon of Oregon, our California Salmon trips – combined with the Scott for one of the ultimate class V adventures in the country, and our Illinois trips - considered by some to be the best wilderness trip in the country. It is not every year we get water like this!
Flight Deals
Like last year there are a ton of deals into Medford (MFR) if you book ahead of time. Try Orbitz.com, or if you are less selective about dates and you are flying from Los Angeles, Vegas, or Mesa Arizona check out the ridiculous Allegiant Air prices (as low as $15 one way!!!). In a quick search I found tickets from New York for $350!
Other News
We have started a little blog about Ashland (our home) and the surrounding area. Guides, staff, and friends will be adding to it regularly. Check it out here: http://ashlandoregonraftingandtravel.com/ - and shoot us an email if you want to add to it!
Become a Fan of our Facebook Page – we have a new video camera and it is becoming a fixture on our rivers – lots of new video soon!
Rogue Rafting Dates
Fri 5/21/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Lodge Hike/Raft Trip - 4 days
Thu 5/27/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Lodge Trip - 3 days
Wed 6/9/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Lodge Hike/Raft Trip - 4 days
Wed 6/16/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Local Food and Wine Lodge Trip - 3 days
Wed 6/23/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Camp Trip - 4 days
Thu 6/24/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Lodge Trip - 3 days - LIMITED SPACE
Wed 6/30/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Lodge Trip - 3 days - LIMITED SPACE
Thu 7/1/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Camp Trip - 4 days - LIMITED SPACE
Wed 7/7/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Lodge Trip - 3 days
Wed 7/14/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Camp Trip - 4 days - FULL
Thu 7/15/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Lodge Trip - 3 days - LIMITED SPACE
Wed 7/21/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Camp Trip - 4 days
Thu 7/22/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Lodge Trip - 3 days - LIMITED SPACE
Wed 7/28/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Lodge Trip - 3 days
Fri 7/30/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Camp Trip - 4 days - FULL
Wed 8/4/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Camp Trip - 3 days - FULL
Thu 8/5/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Lodge Trip - 3 days - LIMITED SPACE
Wed 8/11/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Lodge Wine Tasting Trip - 3 days - LIMITED SPACE
Thu 8/19/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Custom Camp/Lodge Trip - 3 days - FULL
Tue 8/24/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Camp Wine Tasting Trip - 4 days
Wed 9/1/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Lodge Trip - 3 days
Sun 9/5/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Lodge Photography Trip - 3 days
Fri 9/10/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Fall Special Lodge Trip - 3 days
Thu 9/16/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Fall Special Lodge Trip - 3 days
Sat 9/25/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Fall Special Lodge Trip - 3 days
Fri 10/1/2010 - Rogue Wilderness Fall Special Lodge Trip - 3 days
“Sometimes, if you stand on the bottom rail of a bridge and lean over to watch the river slipping slowly away beneath you, you will suddenly know everything there is to be known.” Winnie the Pooh
541 488 2525
Enjoy world class rivers in small groups
with unparalleled personal service, organic
meals, and guides with 8+ years of
experience leading trips around the world.
Wow. We are excited! The last week has been the frosting on what was shaping up to be a great year (and the forecast for the next couple of weeks is the sprinkles:)). Late snow and cold weather does amazing things to a snow pack. At a time when the snow pack is historically starting to go down it is going up!
So, here is where we are at so far:
Spring Rafting:
The California Salmon and The Scott Rivers: Did anyone see pictures of the city of Shasta this winter? It was impressive! The California Salmon and he Scott do not drain Mt Shasta, but the mountains that do drain into them are on the same storm track. The snow pack for Northern California is at 140% but the Salmon and Scott are probably closer to around 165% (the Scott may be a bit lower). With the cold weather coming this could go up even higher! We should have an amazing season and go well into June! Cal Salmon trips are getting very full though so call if you are interested.
The Owyhee River: The Owyhee is always super hard to predict. You can have a great snow pack coming into March and because the mountains that drain into the Owyhee are low elevation a warm March can melt almost everything. However, this year we went into March with about an 80% snowpack. With a reletively cold March and the wet couple of weeks we are at about 110%! The predicted cold weather coming up is huge too. It should be perfect for our Middle Owyhee rafting trips and we should be able to run Lower Owyhee trips into late May. This is a truly off the beaten path river - it does not run like this every year so take advantage of it if you can!
The Illinois River: The ‘Illi’ is by far the hardest to predict - even now. My best guess is that we are at about 100% snow pack. However, a little more rain and cool temps in the beginning of April are way more important to the rafting season. So, right now it looks great! We can only a few trips a year and the trip are very small. There are only a few spaces left.
Summer Rafting:
The Rogue and Klamath Rivers both have huge basins and both have upstream dams that regulate flows somewhat. What this means is that we need about a 70% snow pack to have a good year with the normal flows. Right now we are at about 83% for both. This means the Upper Klamath should have the normal daily big water flows that make it the best summer day trip in the west and the Rogue should have its usual perfect flows for multi-day rafting trips through the Rogue River canyon! Use on the Rogue is extremely regulated to preserve its wilderness feeeling so these trips are already getting very full.
The draft environmental assessment gave the environmental and economic ok! We are really excited for the Rogue and for the oprurtunity to raft longer stretches of river on the Upper Rogue. Read more at the Mail Tribune.
Some Video from a winter trip on the Illinois. It was my first try with out new flip camera - a little shaky! The weather and water were beutiful though.
Hike, Raft, or a mix of both!
The Rogue River National Recreation Trail follows the entire length of the Rogue River. It ducks up into beautiful side canyons, crosses tumbling side streams, and offers spectacular views of the Rogue River. On our Rogue Hike and Raft Lodge trips you can run the river in one of our rafts, hike the trail, or do a combination of both.
For those hiking all you need to carry is a day pack and a little water. All your personal gear is transported in the rafts to the lodges each evening and you and your guide meet the rafts for lunch at predetermined spots. The distance covered each day ranges from 5 to 15 miles depending on the day and if you hike the whole section. The trail follows the river and looses elevation overall.
The availability of lodges is a unique aspect of the Rogue River. There are very few places in the world with a system of remote riverside lodges only accessible by boat, foot, or small plane. It allows for the amazing experience of true wilderness adventure capped off by comfortable and cozy evenings in a remote lodge steeped in pioneer history.
Spring is an amazing time to see the Rogue. The Canyon is lush, wild flowers are blooming, and the temperature is perfect for hiking.
Our Rogue Spring Hike and Raft 4-Day Lodge Trips are offered on select dates in late may and June (custom dates are available). Check our schedule here.
Guests have the option of rafting, inflatable kayaking, hiking or a combination.
The Fall is an amazing time to Raft the Rogue! Mild temperatures, fewer people, more bear sighting’s, and fall foliage. This year we are offering 10% off on select Lodge trips in September. Check our schedule here and look for “Rogue Wilderness Fall Special Lodge Trip”.
Well, I have been sitting in front of the computer WAY too long - my eyes are bleeding and I have lost all social skills. But, our website is up and updated!
This news just came out yesterday. It is one more step towards taking out Gold Ray Dam on the Rogue River. For those who have not heard Gold Ray Dam Removal has very broad support and would open up 157 miles of free flowing river! It may also open up a great day trip rafting option form the Ashland Oregon area.
If Gold Ray Dam goes, county now has firm for the job
By Mark Freeman
Mail Tribune
September 29, 2009
An Oregon construction firm that already has two Rogue River dam removals under its belt has won the contract to study and remove Gold Ray Dam, which would open 157 miles of free-flowing Rogue to the ocean.
Jackson County officials this afternoon announced that they tentatively have awarded the $5.5 million contract to Slayden Construction Group of Stayton.
The county issued its intent to award the contract to Slayden after spending two days reviewing five bid proposals that came in to remove the 105-year-old dam should its environmental studies point to removal as the best option.
The decommissioned hydroelectric dam is owned by the county, which fears liability for the aged structure and current fish ladder that does not meet federal standards.
The project will be funded mainly through a $5 million federal stimulus grant under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which requires the project to be done by the end of 2010.
Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board officials have said previously they plan to work with the county to fill in any funding gaps for the project.
The Jackson County Board of Commissioners has yet to decide to remove the dam, saying it will wait for public input and the results of environmental studies before deciding the dam’s fate.
Slayden won the contract to remove the Gold Hill diversion dam last year and is removing Savage Rapids Dam from the Rogue near the Jackson/Josephine county line.
Our full 2010 Rafting schedule is out for Oregon, Northern California, and for our Ashland based river trips. You can check out the full schedule here. You can also go to any one of our river pages for that rivers schedule. We will add more trips as the winter progresses. Some of more popular dates (especially for spring trips and trips on the Rogue River) are already starting to fill. Don;t forget, we LOVE doing custom trips. Call us or email if you have any questions.
We still have more trips coming up this year, but many of you are already looking forward to 2010 so our schedule is up and we have started taking reservations. You can check out the schedule on our Rogue Rafting Page. We already have a few wine tasting trips scheduled and we will be adding at least a few more specialty trips as the winter progresses. As many of you know we LOVE doing custom trips. The Rogue is much more heavily regulated them most rivers (a good thing - it protects it wilderness feel) so with custom trips we just need to plan farther ahead to make sure we can get dates and spaces that work for you. If you have any questions give us a call!
As summer comes to a close and we start to contemplate school, cool weather and the changing colors we think to ourselves….Wait a second! There’s still some great rafting to be had!!!!
Just because it’s almost September doesn’t mean it has to end! We still have amazing river trips from half day trips to multi day excursions. Some of our best is yet to come! Come and join us on the Wild and Scenic Rogue River for one of our cozy 3 day lodge trips and some of the best fall fishing on the west coast! The Salmon and Steelhead runs are just starting and there are some big fish coming up river! Enjoy an evening next to the fire with a beverage, a good book and delicious food in a rustic river lodge! The perfect fall getaway!
One of our all time favorites, the Upper Klamath, is the ultimate fall weekend trip with its warmer waters, its consistent flows and its abundance of whitewater! While everyone else mourns lower water levels around the country, we delight in knowing that we’ve got plenty of it! Day trips from Ashland return with plenty of time for dinner and the theater.
Reasons we love this time of year? The crowds are gone! The colors are changing! The fish are jumping! The warm, fall light is here and….we don’t have to stop doing what we love! (at least not for a little while longer)
Call today or send us an email! We have Rogue Lodge trips scheduled through October and the Upper Klamath will be holding steady well into the fall. Let us show you why we love late summer and fall on the river!
Steps toward removing the Rogue River’s second largest dam are well under way. With the removal of the Gold Ray Dam, the Rogue River would flow freely for nearly 157 miles to the ocean! Recent articles focus on sediment testing behind the dam to determine the toxicity of reservoir sediments. Local geologists took core samples and tested them for contaminents. Click on the links below for more. A recent public meeting discussed the pro’s and con’s of removing the 100 year old dam. Public comments are being taken until August 28th that will be included in a report for the Jackson County Board of Commissioners. Let your voice be heard! And let’s see our Rogue River flow freely once again! Send comments to Pat Foley at Rogue Valley Council of Governments 155 North First St. Central Point, OR 97502 or by email to pfoley@rvcog.org.
We are in the heart of our summer season and looking forward to the rest of our trips – it has been an amazing year so far! However many of our returning guests and guests that have already rafted this summer are looking towards next spring and all the rivers that come alive for a short time in Oregon and Northern California.So, we just released our spring 2010 Rafting schedule. The California Salmon, Illinois, and Middle and Lower Owyhee all have 2010 dates and on some dates bookings have started. Give us a call if you have any questions or interest! Below are a few quotes from this years spring trips:
Just wanted to say thank you for such a wonderful time last weekend! I was so impressed with the professionalism of your guides, as well as the incredible relaxing but enthralling trip. I’ve never seen such impressible cohesiveness and talent.
– Anne – California Salmon Rafting
I just wanted to thank you again for the great Illinois trip a few weeks ago, it was definitely one of the best multi-day trips I have ever been on and, as usual, the attention to detail that you and your guides adhere to is astounding and very much appreciated.
– Paul - Illinois River Rafting
Your excursion was awesome, the food unbelievable (didn’t expect anything that great on a raft trip) and the guides were super. I’ve never seen five people work so hard and make it look so effortless.
– Susan - Owyhee River Rafting
We here at Momentum are excited for summer and the begginning multi-day river trips on the Wild and Scenic Rogue River!! Known as one of the best multi-day river trips in the country, the Wild and Scenic Rogue is 32 miles of wilderness canyon full of exillerating whitewater, abundant wildlife, rich history and amazing scenery. It is a must do for any river connoisseur as well as those who are first timers to the river world! The Rogue is the perfect get away for families and friends looking for a little beauty and relaxation, a break from the hustle and bustle of the “real world”. Take a trip into the history and lore of the Takelma Indians native canyon, the favorite fishing holes of Zane Grey and the filming location for movies like The River Wild. Jump in one of our inflatable kayaks for some up close and personal river excitement through rapids such as Wildcat, Graves Creek Falls and Horseshoe Bend. Take some solo time on an evening stroll along the Rogue River Hiking Trail. Explore the waterfalls at Tate Creek and make sure the kids give the natural water slide a go! So much to see, so much to experience! We offer lodge based trips as well as our famous camp trips, both comfortable and restful. As always, Momentum’s delicious meals will tempt and satisfy! And, as if that weren’t enough, wine tasting, hiking and world class fishing are even more reason to come experience the magic of the Wild and Scenic Rogue River. Our Rogue season is in full swing and looking good! Water levels are perfect, the weather is warming, and the river is waiting! Our summer trips are filling up fast and our guides can’t wait to get back to “the Canyon”. Snow pack for the Rogue drainage basin is above average and flows for the river look solid for the summer according to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and the US Army Corp of Engineers. So what are you waiting for? Come play with us on The Wild and Scenic Rogue River! Let the Momentum crew treat you to a few days of beautiful wilderness, exciting rafting, good food, friends and an amazing river trip!!!
Spring on the Illinois is here! It’s been a great spring and we’ve had some amazing trips on the always exciting and ever beautiful Illinois River! The weather and water levels have kept us on our toes but have come through and provided for some wonderful rafting! While water levels were wavering a week ago, Pete and the gang went for it and proved that rafting the “Illy” is always good! We’ve recieved some great shots from some of the crew of the beautiful weather and the jeweled water and all we want to do is go back. Recent rainfall has been substantial and it looks as though our time on the Illy this spring just might last a little bit longer. So, if you haven’t run it yet let us know…we’ll save you a spot!
World-Class River Trips Oregon, Northern California, and beyond…
Hello,
We hope you are enjoying spring! We are almost half way through our spring season and we are excited for the rest of spring and summer. Thanks so much to all who have joined us so far!
For those who are planning to join us on an upcoming trip (or contemplating it) there are some amazing travel deals this year. A combination of airlines running below capacity, lower fuel costs, and new routes into our own Medford Oregon “International” Airport have made flying an unbelievable option right now. A quick search on the web found flights as low as $50 one way!! A few of our favorite local hotels are also running great package deals.
Below there are sections on flight deals, our summer trips along with vacation ideas, and our late spring trips. Our summer rivers have a great snow pack - about 110%! We are so excited for the Upper Klamath season and our Rogue Wilderness Trips. The Rogue trips are filling very fast and some dates are full so give us a call/email if you are interested. There is also still time to get on a California Salmon trip or our Lower Owyhee trip (Grand Canyon of Oregon). Our Owyhee trip was just featured in Oregon Travel and National Geographic Adventure. There are Lower Owyhee trips leaving on the 15th and 26th of May.
Once again thanks to all who have joined us so far this season - It looks to be our best year yet and it has been an amazing start! Hopefully we will see everyone on the water this year.
Kind Regards,
Pete and the staff of
Momentum River Expeditions
Summer Trips -
Rogue River 3 To 4-Day Wilderness Trip -Our newest trip! An iconic American classic and a wilderness playground. One of the world’s great summer wilderness trips complete with remote riverside lodges. The rapids and the choice of craft make the Rogue almost unmatched in its ability to satisfy a wide range of tastes and skill levels.
Rogue Travel Ideas: Most of our Rogue trips start on Thursdays. You can fly in and spend a few days exploring Ashland, check out plays at the Shakespeare festival, or raft the Upper Klamath…etc. Then on Thursday morning head to the Rogue for a 3-day Lodge trip (The lodge system on the Rogue is extremely unique. There are very few places in the world with a system of remote riverside lodges only accessible by boat), or a four day camp trip. Then you get back to Ashland for the night and fly out on Monday. You can also get your car shuttled to the coast (where the trip ends) and follow your Rogue trip up with time on the Oregon Coast and in the Redwoods. The Historic Ashland Springs Hotel (one of our favorites) is offering a great room rates for our guests running the Rogue. There are so many options, give us a call and we can help out!
Many of these trips are already getting full, so call or email if you are interested! There is more info at the Rogue River Page.
Summer on the Upper Klamath – Class IV+ - The Upper Klamath River is definitely the most exciting summer class-IV day trip in the West. We have a ton of water and great summer flows this year! Join us and see why this run’s fame and popularity grows every year. We have day trips on almost every day except Wednesday’s or you can check out a weekend 2-day trip and take advantage of Allegiants Friday/Monday schedule – fly into Medford on Friday and spend the night in Ashland. We pick you up at your hotel on Saturday morning and you spend two days on the Upper Klamath. Then we return to Ashland on Sunday afternoon and you either grab an evening flight out or a Monday morning flight.There is more Upper Klamath info at the Upper Klamath Rafting Page.
The Lower Klamath River – 2 to 4 days in remote and beautiful Northern California. It is the perfect introduction to rafting, river travel, and camping, and one of the best rafting trips in the country for families with young children. The river offers fun splashy rapids, rugged mountain scenery, beautiful side hikes, and tons of wildlife. For those wanting more excitement we can bring along inflatable kayaks, making the Lower Klamath great for a wide range of ages.
High Adventure Inflatable Kayaking trips –With the addition of the Rogue we have yet another great summer Inflatable Kayaking trip (and you can stay in wilderness lodges!). We love inflatable kayaking and guests that have joined us in the past rave about it. It’s just you, your kayak, your recently learned skills, rapids at “face” level, and guides leading the way giving you tips, encouragement, and a helping hand when needed. A unique and exciting river experience.
There is more Inflatable Kayak info info at the Kayaking Page.
Late Spring Trips -
The Lower Owyhee 5-day – The Grand Canyon of Oregon - it has been compared to Zion, Bryce, and Grand Canyon National Parks but in the end it probably defies direct comparisons. A 5-day wilderness journey through one of the most remote and bizarrely beautiful canyons in the continental U.S. Our trip has recently been featured in National Geograpic Adventure and Travel Oregon. There is room on May 15th and 26th. There is also room on the low water Inflatable Kayaking trip on June 26th. With the Owyhee you actually want to fly into Boise, Idaho. Luckily there are amazing flight deals there too!
The California Salmon 2 to 3 Day – The Salmon is one of the most spectacular rafting trips in the country; it is world-class whitewater in our back yard. There is still room on our May 8th, 22nd, and June 5th trips. Salmon Travel Ideas: The California Salmon Long Weekend – Fly into Medford on a Thursday evening, spend the night in Ashland, have a late breakfast and then either rent a car or get a shuttle with us down to one of the best and most beautiful high adventure runs in the country. Spend 3 days and 3 nights at the river, get back to the Ashland area Monday evening and fly back Tuesday (or even late Monday).
Clear Creek / Lower Klamath 3-Day Inflatable Kayaking – High water spring adventure trips on the Lower Klamath - and a chance to run a stretch of river that is rarely seen or even heard of (and that is spectacularly beautiful)! Very few people see Clear Creek, but the ones that do are blown away. We have a trip with space on June 12th.
Flights – Wow, if you book ahead of time there are a ton of deals to Medford (MFR). Try Orbitz.com, or if you are less selective about dates and you are flying from Los Angeles, Vegas, or Mesa Arizona check out the ridiculous Allegiant Air prices (as low as $15 one way!!!).
News
- Online Booking: Thank you to all who have used our new system and gave us feedback! It has been a great success!
- Are you a fan of Momentum on Facebook? Facebook has gone through a big “face” lift. For those who are already fans if you want to see Momentum updates on your Facebook page you need go to the bottom of your “news feed” (the part where all your friends comments show up) and click on “edit options”. Find Momentum and click “add to news feed”. Not a fan of Momentum yet? Facebook allows for a great interaction with guests, guides, and Momentum. Anybody can post pictures and add content. You can become a fan of Momentum River Expeditions and be the first to hear news, add trip photos, etc. Become a Fan of Momentum Rafting on Facebook.
Join runners Leland Fulton, Erik Skaggs, and Jenn Shelton of 
The trip includes:
Save the Wild Rogue:
Rogue River 3 To 4-Day Wilderness Trip
Summer on the Upper Klamath – Class IV+ 
