Rafting the Sandy Gorge
The Sandy Gorge is probably one of the best kept secrets on Portland's
doorstep. This run is truly the "closest rafting to Portland."
Nestled just off of HWY 26 near Sandy, lies one of the most beautiful
and challenging runs around the state. Once in the canyon, one would
be memorized by such rainforest-like vegetation, uncountable waterfalls,
the amazing transformation of open valleys to deep, volcanic ash
gorges, to the challenging Class IV+ whitewater. And one of the most
unique features of the Sandy Gorge is that it is literally 30 minutes
from Portland's Eastside communities.
The Sandy Gorge is located just under an hour of west Portland and even closer to the eastside! If you would like to have a true weekend getaway, then combo a Sandy Gorge trip with a Clackamas River trip for a real whitewater weekend getaway, all with the comforts of going home to a hot shower at night!
The Sandy Gorge Trip
River Drifters provides trips on the Sandy Gorge at two different
times during the year. From March through mid-June (is the primary
season), but we also offer trips during rainy periods of October
and November. Hey, it's Oregon and you are going to get wet anyway,
so a little liquid sunshine won't hurt! On a Sandy Gorge journey,
one will be encountered with such challenging rapids like The '64,
Boulder Rapids, Alder Creek, Rasp Rock, Drain Hole and Revenue Bridge
Rapids. This run is chalked full of many unnamed class III and IV
rapids. Midway through the trip, a hearty and healthy rivers' edge
lunch will great the hungry rafter.
- Group discounts are given for 12+ and 24+ people!
- More about Group and Team Building Trips
Who Can Go
The Sandy Gorge is great for the adventurous rafter with a few trips
or a fair number of river miles under their belt! The season on the
Sandy Gorge is mainly in the Spring months (March through mid-June)
and sometimes in the Fall (October-November).
The minimum age is a hearty 14 year old. The Sandy Gorge is ideal for our returning guests who like to climb the river ladder to raft the infamous Wind River!
What We Provide
River Drifters provides all the necessary gear to stay warm and comfortable on your adventure (wetsuits, paddle jackets and helmets), all free! The price also includes lunch on the banks of the Sandy River! For a comprehensive list of things to bring for all weather, please see our Spring and Fall Trip List!




