Deschutes River, OR

Lower Deschutes Wild and Scenic RIver (Pelton Reregulating Dam to Confluence with the Columbia River)

Visitors pass through steep canyons that reveal their volcanic origin in the towering basalt columns lining the rims. The elevation drops from 1,393 feet at Pelton Dam to 160 feet at its confluence with the Columbia River.

The average gradient is 13 feet per mile and is relatively constant throughout its length. The most significant drops in gradient are Sherars Falls (River Mile 44), with a vertical drop of 15 feet, and Whitehorse Rapids (River Mile 75), with a vertical drop of approximately 35-40 feet over one mile (BLM)

 

For More Information Visit:

Deschutes River - BLM

rivers.gov/Deschutes River

Section Details

Trip Length 100.0 Miles
Fishing Yes
Camping Yes
Permit Yes
Manager Bureau of Land Management, Prineville District
Wild & Scenic Yes
Water Trail No
Partner Information https://www.blm.gov/visit/lower-deschutes-wild-and-scenic-river
https://www.rivers.gov/river/deschutes
Description American Whitewater
Photo Credit: Greg Shine; BLM