River Trips-North Santiam
The North Santiam River offers an incredible experience for paddlers, anglers, and adventurers of all skill levels. At North Santiam River Shuttles, we’re here to make your river trips seamless and memorable, whether you’re looking for a guided journey or prefer the independence of a self-guided expedition. With diverse stretches of the river to explore, ranging from peaceful floats to exciting rapids, there’s something for everyone.
Our shuttle services are tailored to support a variety of river trips, including half-day outings, full-day adventures, and multi-day expeditions. Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of the river’s key segments, along with resources to help you prepare for your trip.
River Segments and Distances
Here’s a guide to the most popular stretches of the North Santiam River, complete with river mile distances and highlights for each route. Please, follow North Santiam River Levels for current conditions.
Packsaddle Park to Fisherman’s Bend
- Distance: 7-8 miles
- Ideal For: Expert paddlers and anglers with river experience. Neophytes should learn the section with a seasoned veteran.
- Highlights: High-level whitewater with swift currents pushing into large rocks and river boulders. The Trout, Steelhead, and Salmon fishing is excellent on this section.
Notes: Spencers Rapid and Mill City Falls are dangerous spots on this section.
Quick Links: River Levels | Weather | Fishing Regulations
Fisherman’s Bend to Mehama Bridge
- Distance: 6 miles
- Ideal For: Experienced paddlers and rookies exploring with veterans.
- Highlights: Lots of rapids throughout this section. Big whitewater in long stretches below Fisherman’s Bend. It’s a favorite among anglers due to its excellent fishing spots.
Notes: Fisherman’s Bend Rapid, Two Mile Rapids, and John Neal Park Rapids are dangerous spots in this section.
Quick Links: River Levels | Weather | Fishing Regulations
North Santiam State Park to Mehama Bridge
- Distance: 3.5-4 miles
- Ideal For: Intermediate to expert paddlers. John Neal Park rapids are serious. A great float after work during the summer months.
- Highlights: This section is not a beginner’s section due to John Neal Park Rapid. However, it offers Great Trout, Salmon, and Steelhead water for fly and gear anglers. Please note that the boat launch is very rocky and can be difficult. We love this one after work and take it out between 8 and 9 p.m.
Notes: John Neal Park and Mehama Bridge Rapids. Stay river left at Fish Nest Island. River right gets very shallow.
Quick Links: River Levels | Weather | Fishing Regulations
Mehama Bridge to Stayton Bridge
- Distance: 11-12 miles
- Ideal For: Intermediate to expert paddlers due to Bennett Dam portage. If you don’t know about Bennett Dam, do some research. This drift doesn’t have dangerous rapids, but the dam portage and a few large tree snags are a concern.
- Highlights: This all-day fish and float trip is perfect for Trout streamer fishing from rafts or drift boats. Successful anglers cover a lot of water and many great spots.
Notes: Bennett Dam Portage. We will post a video this Spring.
Quick Links: River Levels | Weather | Fishing Regulations
Stayton Bridge to Hess Road Boat Ramp (Railroad Trestle)
- Distance: 5 miles
- Ideal For: This section is suitable for all levels of paddlers. Tubers, rafts, kayaks, and driftboats can take this short but sweet float, which features calm sections with a few quiet rapids.
- Highlights: Please note some call this ramp “Railroad Trestle.” Quality fishing for fly and gear anglers on this quick float section. Another after-work summer fly fishing expedition. Another alias is Buell-Miller Boat Ramp.
Notes: Please check social media sites for Tree Snags in this section.
Quick Links: River Levels | Weather | Fishing Regulations
Stayton Bridge to Greens Bridge
- Distance: 10-12 miles
- Ideal For: Break out those tubes this summer and take a long float. Beginners should paddle this often to gain confidence. You can find a few tree snags, but most of these hazards are marked on social media. Riffles and calm, slow water are standard on this float.
- Highlights: Shhhhhh, don’t tell anyone, but this drift is fantastic fishing! We float this from March to October! Trout, Salmon, and Steelhead fishing is outstanding. Gear and fly anglers will have success! Cover water. This is an all-day affair.
Notes: Please check social media sites for Tree Snags in this section.
Quick Links: River Levels | Weather | Fishing Regulations
Greens Bridge to Jefferson Ramp
- Distance: 5 miles
- Ideal For: Another tube floaters favorite. Easy paddling water and a great float to hone your raft, kayak, or driftboat skills.
- Highlights: Easy water to paddle and fantastic Steelhead and Salmon water for gear and fly anglers.
Notes: Please watch for tree snags on this float.
Quick Links: River Levels | Weather | Fishing Regulations
Book Your Shuttle Online Now
