This half-day trip on the Upper Deschutes is only 20 minutes from Bend, making it the perfect mini-adventure for visitors to the area who would also like to fit in another activity in the afternoon. We'll launch in the heart of the Deschutes National Forest: this section of river is completely undeveloped and pristine.

Paddlers will see interesting lava flow formations that surged down from Paulina Peak when this volcano errupted creating the Newberry Crater National Monument. There is a dense Aspen grove on one side of the river, and the water is an inviting shade of aqua-blue. We'll paddle upstream to Benham falls and explore tranquil lagoons and side channels of the Upper Deschutes in a kayak, canoe or stand up paddleboard.

We must have four or more paddlers to make this trip a go. If you'd like to book this within two days of the departure date, please call the shop as we no longer take online reservations at that time. Thanks! 541.317.9407.

Meet at Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe ten minutes before your trip's departure. We will then depart as as group to the Deschutes National Forest.  We'll paddle upstream to Benham falls and explore tranquil lagoons and side channels of the Upper Deschutes in a kayak, canoe or stand up paddleboard.

Things To Bring

Depending on the weather, you’ll need:

• sneakers or river shoes, with wool socks or wetsuit booties
• sunglasses with Croakies or Chums
• sunscreen and lip balm
• sun hat, rain hat or fleece hat
• synthetic top and bottom (i.e. thermal underwear)
• raincoat and rain pants
• swimsuit
• water bottle
• towel and change of clothes
• snacks

Cancellation Policy

Please cancel within 48 hours of your departure date.

Departs

Fridays throughout the Spring. Fridays and Saturdays throughout the summer. Refer to the calendar for specific dates.

Pickup/Departure

The tour will meet at the retail store in Bend, 805 Industrial Way, Suite 6 (Red Mill Building A, adjacent to the Colorado Bridge near the Old Mill.) Please contact the shop with any questions or concerns. Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe 541.317.9407.

Additional Locations