Oregon is a beautiful state that lays claim to many stunning landscapes complete with breathtaking waterways perfect for exploring. The Upper Clackamas, which runs near Portland, provides visitors and locals with the ultimate whitewater destination any time of year but May highlights the area in festival form. The Upper Clackamas is a dynamic section of waterways that provide a challenging and thrilling adventure for whitewater rafting enthusiasts. The Upper Clackamas Whitewater Festival has been providing a venue for rafters to get out on the water in the name of competition for the past 35 years and the 36th celebration of 2019 is shaping up to be an adventure unlike any other!
Whitewater Adventures at the Upper Clackamas Whitewater Festival
In 2019, the Upper Clackamas Whitewater Festival will run May 18th and 19th with a variety of events for participants to enjoy. If you’re wondering what to see in Bend Oregon, online registration is available with individual races costing $10, R2 races costing $13 while all other races are $30. Those looking to compete can pick and choose events that range from kayak-based adventures to rafting and even stand up paddleboard. Outdoor sporting clinics take place near the Carter Bridge Festival area for those looking to sharpen their skills on the water and in the rapids throughout the event. Each evening, participants and guests are welcome to live entertainment, food, and drinks in celebration of the watery feats witnessed during the day.
Take to the Water with Purpose
The Upper Clackamas Whitewater Festival has roots reaching back to its founding in 1984 when the Northwest Rafter’s Association recognized a need for a time set aside to celebrate rafting while offering up a chance to boost competition and target skillsets in the community. Since this time, the festival has continued to be a highlight event in the community and in 2013, was transformed into a non-profit organization of its own. The mission of the festival is to provide a safe competition that promotes river education and collaboration amongst like-minded water enthusiasts and athletes. Similarly, the event is used to promote river stewardship to keep the Upper Clackamas in pristine condition for years to come.
Stay and Enjoy the Rapids
Whether you’re a rafter or in town to support a loved one, let the team at Arrived take care of your accommodation needs so you can keep focused on the competition. Our team of professionals will help you book a vacation rental that keeps you conveniently close to the rapids while providing the comfort and privacy you’ve been looking for. Contact us today to learn more about what to see in Bend Oregon and to book your accommodations!
