The nine scattered cabins that make up Jim Moore’s Camp among knee high grasses were all hand-hewn. I see the ax marks and wonder at Moore taking 15 years to make all the massive beams by hand. Most of the cabins still stand, with a little help from volunteers from the United States Forest Service and a designation in the National Register of Historic Places (#78001063, respectfully).

Flocks of people came through making the property’s extensive development worth the effort. Jim Moore said himself that between the years 1900 and 1902, 1,800 men came through his property as they headed upstream to Campbell’s Ferry, crossing the Salmon, and heading for the purported gold on Thunder Mountain. He said they came year-round, with backpacks and mules in the summer and snowshoes and skis in the winter.

Whether stopping for lunch or camp along the Main Salmon River, we guides oftentimes make the couple hundred-or-so-yard walk up to the terrace and take a look around Jim Moore’s Place. We tell the guests a short history of Jim and his homestead. He was born in Kentucky around 1868 and died April 25th, 1942.

As the guests are milling about and looking in cabin windows at old shoes and rusted pots, I walk towards the scree slope. I give Jim’s grave a little nod as I walk by it, acknowledging him and his long-gone, historic and generous homestead on the Salmon’s shore. As I get near the hill’s base, I take a look around, trying to remember where I left off last time. I start lifting up rocks, hoping that maybe I’ll pick the right one and find a mason jar filled with gold nuggets.

Jim started placer mining in the late 1890’s and didn’t find much. As word spread that gold was found on Thunder Mountain, Jim recognized opportunity. He raised chickens and sold eggs. He was known to make good money selling his homemade moonshine, whiskey, and peach brandy. He grew veggies and planted an orchard that still produces deliciously crisp and sweet apples for rafters and bears passing by in mid-to late summer.

I search a few more minutes. Sometimes a guest will saunter up and ask what I’m doing. I always tell them I’m hunting for Jim Moore’s lost treasure. Sometimes they help. They always laugh. I haven’t found it yet.

I allow the tiny irrational part of me to think this day might be the time I strike gold. The appeal? Fame and fortune? More, I imagine it would be remarkable handling a dusty treasure not seen since Jim’s death in 1942. Oh, and it’s full of gold, and I need a new truck.

I’d love to find the hidden treasure someday, even if that means facing Jim Moore’s ghost.

Much of Moore’s history was gleaned from Carrey and Conley’s River of No Return.

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The post Searching for Jim Moore’s Treasure appeared first on River Currents.

So here’s why a whitewater rafting trip tops any sort of spa weekend and is the ultimate girls getaway:

Reconnect with friends:
Whether you’re paddling together through a major rapid, floating through the canyon or trying your luck in a double inflatable kayak, rafting provides some of the best opportunities to reconnect with friends. We all know that women make better paddlers, and your guide will be stoked to have you and your friends as his crew. Sitting in a chair on the bank of a river, sipping a beverage and watching the roaring campfire under a star-filled sky, you’ll all being laughing about the day’s excitement and saying there’s no better place to be. It’s the perfect setting for catching up with old friends, making new memories and enjoying the great outdoors.

Rejuvenate:
Escapism is what it’s all about on a girls trip. Getting far, far away from boyfriends, husbands, partners, kids and the everyday grind in general. What’s further from the norm than a trip down the river, into the remote wilderness, with nothing but beautiful sunsets, wildlife galore and whitewater? Paddling hard through the rapids, taking in the surrounding beauty and breathing in the fresh air, you’ll find yourself re-energized and re-charged by the end of the trip. The river has a way of breathing life into you in a way no hot tub ever could.

Have fun:
Have you ever punched through a wave? Gotten completely doused by water as you ride high through the rapid? Turning to your girlfriend, grinning widely, soaked to the skin, I can guarantee you’ll throw your head back and laugh with glee. So. Much. Fun.

If you can’t let go of visions of vineyards and the sweet taste of Syrah on your lips, consider taking a wine on the river trip with the gals. Dinner by the river with linens, food by a catered chef and plenty of wine brought by an accompanied winemaker, your getaway will surely be the best girls trip yet.

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The post The Ultimate Girls Getaway appeared first on River Currents.

My wife and I are planning on doing Phantom to Whitmore in a dory in September. As we prepare physically I’m hoping you can help us mentally. My wife is somewhat concerned with rapids. We have been whitewater rafting before, and she loves to go, but the nerves build and build in the week or two before the big day. As this trip has months of time for the stress to rise, is there any reassurance you can give her troubled heart about the rapids encountered on this section? How can we best prepare for the worries that come from being miles from civilization in the bottom of the Grand Canyon and in a drift boat going over some of the best rapids in the whole canyon. Please keep in mind we both can’t wait to get there but would rather not have to take anti-anxiety meds to do it.  -Russ

Dear Russ:

I find the beach at Phantom to be a great place for scanning faces. We hand out sandwiches and apples and snickers bars, as well as some much-needed Gatorade, teach you how to pack all your gear for the next ten days into a rubber container the size of a shopping bag, pass out the Ibuprofen, and generally let the enormity of the place soak in while you rest your weary knees.

Then we advise you that you’ve just hiked into one of the biggest stretches of whitewater on the river. The black schist cliffs rise a thousand vertical feet straight out of the water, and the rapid’s roar is right there, sort of in your face.

And as you slowly become aware of those tiny little wooden boats rocking gently in the eddy, and begin to notice the scruffy river guides in our floppy hats, flip-flops and gaudy rescue knives, I watch.

I tend to look for the eyes and the smile. The eyes are a little too big to be just appreciating the amazing scenery encompassing Phantom’s “Boat Beach,” looking instead like they’re about to pop out of their sockets. The smile is curled up at the edges and tight, definitely NOT amused. Those are the ones I veer towards with a kind pat on the shoulder or a hug, and a firm “YOU are coming with ME in MY boat. No arguments!”

Now, I understand that the above isn’t very helpful to your needs, so maybe you won’t want to share that part with your spouse. But I do think it important to illustrate to your lovely wife that she’s not alone, which should help a little. Nothing to be ashamed of, and something we guides cope with regularly. It’s the changeover from one world to the next that gets us–be it getting married, a climber’s first step onto the verticality, or getting dropped off for your first day in childcare (which, come to think of it, isn’t all that different from this). It’s like we always used to say: “The first step’s a Looloo” (whatever that meant). Never easy, always queasy.

But, as always, just barely in the tailwaves of the very first rapid five minutes downstream, everything comes together. Awareness replaces shock. The smile softens. The body and soul lose the feeling of rigor mortis and become supple, ready. This boat’s pretty stable, after all. This is kinda fun. The waves are big, yes, but it’s more exciting than scary. The guide (who might look like the person you’d cross the street to avoid in New York) is calm, strong, a real craftsman, very intelligent, quite handsome (or pretty), witty, and is probably more experienced than most of the other elite professionals who guide rafts down the Colorado put together.
Sort of a WHOOOHOOOOO! moment.

And from that moment on, my vast experience tells me that the very person who was most sh..t scared at first evolves into the one riding the bow, punching the waves, jumping into the waterfalls, sharing stupid jokes and generally acting like a twelve-year-old at camp, which is sort of what this is all about, isn’t it?

So, whilst there is nothing you or I are going to be able to do to quell the pre-trip anxiety attacks, which are perfectly normal and certainly will result in the equivalent of getting between two fighting dogs if you try to interfere, I’d say be loving, gentle, and understanding. Bring her favorite cup of coffee (tea, Jagermeister), encourage her to conquer her fears, and keep telling her that the River God guarantees that she will, when all is said and done, consider this trip as the most fun, most wondrous, most glorious, most perfect adventure of her life. She’ll have made some great new friends, and found that she was capable of feats–of superhuman hiking, camping, and going to the riverside Pooperia–that she’d never dreamed of. She’ll want to come back again and again, spending your children’s inheritance and yes, getting stage-fright before every trip and loving every minute of it.

Cheers,
River God

Got a burning question about rafting trips? Then it’s time to Ask A River God. Send us your questions, and we’ll put our guides and staff to the test!

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The post Ask A River God: How Can We Mentally Prepare for a Rafting Trip? appeared first on River Currents.

Colorado River through the Grand Canyon, Arizona

Perhaps the most renowned river trip in the northern hemisphere, this whitewater rafting trip is a must do for anyone wanting to talk big. Big waves, big holes, big canyon, big expedition, big fun. It’s the big classic and benchmark for all rivers claiming to be big.

Zambezi River, Zambia

It’s the ‘Slam-bezi’ and this river will leave you with no doubt as to its nickname. Africa’s most famous big water river (and perhaps the world’s) is loaded with big Class IV-V rapids that rarely allow a raft through without wreaking havoc. Add in crocs and hippos and BIG is the only way to describe this experience.

Chilko River, British Columbia

This river trip is all about big whitewater. It takes place in big country, among glaciated peaks, alpine forests and, of course, big whitewater. The Chilko is no joke and its nonstop stretch of Class IV whitewater is notorious on the North American continent. Can you say freight train?

Futaleufu River, Chile

Mention your trip on the “Fu” to anyone who knows whitewater rafting, and you’ll enjoy their undivided attention. South America’s big water legend serves up multiple Class V rapids in a setting that seems almost make-believe. With several mind-blowing sections of river to navigate over several days, you will be a believer.

Colorado River through Cataract Canyon, Utah

This epic run, host to arguably the largest Class V rapids in the U.S., is most likely to rage in June. Don’t let the scenery fool you, desert whitewater can be as big as the landscape it cuts through.

Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho

Typically late-May into mid-June is when this scenic pathway can take on another attitude altogether. Among the boating community, a high-water descent through this canyon will earn you respect, as its continuous Class IV whitewater is intense.

Tuolumne River, California

The Sierra snowpack can unleash its bounty with a fury that attracts whitewater boaters from all over the world. Most often late-May through mid-June, this 18-mile stretch packed with Class IV-V rapids becomes an adrenaline junky’s dream come true.

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The post 7 of the Best Whitewater Rafting Trips in the World appeared first on River Currents.

But we’ve narrowed the list down to some of the best trips out there, so you don’t have to.  And even better yet, we’ve put together a nifty flow chart so you can find the perfect whitewater rafting trip for your needs and experience level. 

Are you traveling solo or going with a group?  Do you want big adventure with big whitewater, or are you more of a beginner?  How far do you want to travel?  What kind of scenery are you looking for?  We’ve asked all of these questions and more to help you choose the adventure that’s right for you.

Click here to view the full flow chart and find out which whitewater rafting trip fits you best.

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The post Choose Your Own Adventure: Which River Trip is Right for You? appeared first on River Currents.

In fact, all his words amount to encouragement if you’re on the fence considering whether or not you’ll like a wilderness rafting trip.

You might be worried about this or that, but you needn’t worry at all, says Michael Lanning.

“The main reason is, in rafting, there are a number of options,” Lanning says. “You can really make it your trip.”

Mr. Lanning knows what he’s talking about. Last summer, he ran the Tuolumne River with his family. Shortly thereafter, he celebrated his 80th birthday.

“I even took my wife along,” he explains. “She’s 83.”

Lanning took his first whitewater river trip in 1966, in old Navy “crash” boats down the Salmon River. He’s kept at it ever since, ticking off rivers throughout the West.

He’s organized trips for church youth groups and Boy Scouts, introducing thousands of people to the joys of river travel and camping.

It doesn’t have to be crazy, he assures.

“One can really exert oneself, be in a paddle boat and be in on the action and thrill,” Lanning says. “Or you can be in an oar boat and be a tourist, taking pictures.”

The 4 other areas of concern that Lanning has heard over the years? He’s got thoughts on each:

Getting out of the boat

For older travelers, he says, footing is the biggest concern. “You’re not as sure of yourself,” he says. But, that’s what guides are there for, to help. They expect to do it. And, for the most part, the sandy beaches where raft trips stop are pretty easy to get around.

Staying clean

“You’re clean all the time — it’s not like camping,” Lanning says. “You’re constantly clean, because you’re on the river.” He also believes people are pleasantly surprised by bathroom etiquette on river trips. “I tell them the restrooms are extremely clean and very handy,” he says. “They get a kick out of it.”

Sleeping

On this most recent trip, Lanning learned that two twenty-somethings had never slept in a sleeping bag. “Some folks have no experience getting a little primitive, and this can be a worry,” he says. “Usually, they find they sleep better than they do at home.” For himself, Lanning even prefers to shun the tent in favor of a night’s rest beneath the stars, noting there are few insects to be found along the sandy beaches.

The food

You don’t get to the age of 80 without being health-conscious, and that goes for diet, too. Lanning says people are shocked at what fare is possible on a river trip. “You’re eating fresh food the whole time,” he says. “It’s very nutritious, and there’s amazing variety, including the desserts. It’s one of the things the guides are proudest of.”

If that’s still not enough to persuade a would-be river traveler, Lanning appeals to your sense of exclusivity and history. How would you like to stand where no one’s stood since Native Americans passed through? How about a hike that only a couple dozen people see in any year? How about camping on a sandy beach reserved just for your group?

“And just the sound of the water,” he says, “and the sound of the trees, and the clear, clear skies.”

What keeps you from venturing out on a wilderness river trip? Got advice from your own rafting experiences? Let us know in the comments below.

The post Don’t Let This 80-Year-Old Call You A Wimp appeared first on River Currents.

On a high adventure trip with O.A.R.S., your troop or crew will have an exciting wilderness experience packed with thrilling whitewater, amazing hikes and numerous opportunities to develop their teamwork, skill sets and appreciation of the natural world. Additionally, special merit badge pursuit trips can be organized upon request.  

Take a peek at some of the amazing experiences your Boy Scouts and Venturers could have on a classic American adventure…

Like the video? Read this!  How Going Rogue Reset a Troop’s Life to River Time

The post A New Kind of Troop Outing: Boy Scout Rafting Trips appeared first on River Currents.

Is it just me, or does the idea of being trapped on a giant cruise ship for a week sound like a challenge, not a vacation? Sure, you get to stop here and there to see a new city or a new port. But can you really explore when you know you’ve got to be back on the boat by 3 p.m., or else? Or else what? I’m the type of person that definitely wouldn’t want to find out.

I’d rather be on river time. Watches not necessary. All you need to know is that when the smell of fresh coffee wafts down the river canyon, it’s time to get up.

And I’ve never actually been on a cruise, but doesn’t the scenery (look, more ocean…) get old after a while? I’d rather be on a river, where each bend in the canyon brings a new surprise. Bighorn sheep taking a drink at water’s edge. Crazy rock formations dating back millions of years. Or a rapid the guides have been talking about all morning that we’re seconds away from tackling. These are the types of things that keep me excited day in and day out.

What about accommodations? Here’s what instantly pops into my head when I think cruise ship: A small, claustrophobic cabin room that may or may not have a teeny window. And on the river? Sleeping under the stars on a secluded sandy beach (tent optional!). I know which one I prefer.

Don’t get me wrong, I realize there’s a lot to love about cruising too. Obviously gourmet food and never-ending fine beverages are nice perks. But just because you’re deep in the wilderness doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice that. Believe it or not, I’ve actually been on a  Wine on the River trip where they bring along a chef, who delivers gourmet meals riverside, and a winemaker too…never-ending glass of wine included! Words cannot describe what’s it’s like to enjoy a multi-course meal and an incredible hand-crafted bottle of wine from a boutique winery after a day on the river. Did I mention you can leave your evening gown and heels at home? Yup, I’d rather be on the river.

And finally, I have to bring up entertainment. This is an area where one might think the cruise trumps a river trip, especially considering a cruise ship is like a floating casino, amusement park and mall all in one. But nothing can quite put a smile on your face like whitewater rafting. It’s pure fun and exhilaration that’s hard to come by in the real world.

I think about all of this as I’m floating down the Main Salmon River on my very own sun deck, feet kicked up on the front of a dory in total relaxation mode. It may not be for everybody, but this is MY cruise.

The post This is MY Cruise appeared first on River Currents.

Soon I will embark on the 10-day trip down the Grand Canyon, a dream of a lifetime.

My question is this about back support: I’ve been whitewater rafting in the past and and, in the excitement, I never gave a second thought to back support. But those were 1-, 2-, and 3-day trips. Ten days will be a new experience. Is there any way to strap on something like an adjustable canoe seat? Or is there room enough on the bottom of the boat, in calm waters, to sit my fanny down and lean on the raft seat if my back needs a rest? I don’t have a back “condition” of any sort, just the groans of 55 years of gravity and bipedal locomotion.

Looking forward to your response.

— All the best, Martha Turner

Dear Martha,

My back also sucks, after 58 years of rowing and paddling and lifting. Pilates and keeping toned has saved my behind … so far.

Assuming from your question you’re on a raft and not a dory, I’d say this one is easy-peezy. Get yourself a Crazy Creek chair. It’ll pack light, clip on or slip under the frame pad for whitewater, provides an adjustable backrest, and because its small and easy to deal with, won’t tick off your guides. I had a client on my last trip that used one, but I forgot to steal it at the end of the trip. You can also take it to your camp for evening and morning use.

You won’t be comfortable sitting in the bilge. It’s wet, jiggles a lot, and probably harbors 24 people’s worth of foot fungus. As for your fanny, I married an Australian gal, and no longer use that term. It doesn’t mean the same thing Down Under!

I’m so glad you’re finally getting around to your dream. It was mine, too, 37 years ago. Only I just never woke up from that first magical time. A hundred and twenty-something times later, I’m still dreaming!

— River God

The post Ask A River God: Back Support appeared first on River Currents.

If you’ve felt the surge of adrenaline that comes with outdoor adventure, and then rehashed those memories with the friends you shared it with around a campfire later that evening, there were likely some epiphanies articulated.

Sometimes, those joyful expressions find their form in verse.

One of our repeat guests, Lee Marc Stein, was so moved. After a trip on Oregon’s Rogue River, Lee shared this one with us.

Streaming

Now, that is good stuff.

Nice work, Lee.

The post How Adventure Makes Poets Of Us All appeared first on River Currents.