Additional Information:
About the River:
The headwaters of the Illinois River are high in the Siskiyou Mountains of Northern California. Flowing north, the river cuts a steep and winding canyon to its confluence with the Rogue River, approximately 35 miles from the Pacific. The 34 mile section that we run is protected as a Wild and Scenic River and contains some of the most exciting and challenging whitewater in the west. It also contains some of the most exquisite scenery in the world. Numerous side creeks cascade directly into the river; deep, blue-green pools burst into sparkling whitewater; giant house-sized boulders and steep cliffs pinch the river through narrow passages; and colorful wildflowers bloom on shore. Adding to this spectacle of scenic wonder are rapids which can hold their own against any on the continent. Pine Flat, Submarine Hole, Prelude and the Illinois' signature rapid, Green Wall, are just a few of the many rapids that will be encountered.
The Illinois is a secluded, remote, and rarely run river with wide variations in its flow. Due to its difficulty, isolation, and unpredictable nature, it is best suited for experienced rafters looking for a challenging adventure. This is a challenging trip in a remote and inaccessible canyon; everyone should be physically fit, agile, coordinated and healthy.
Being Prepared:
llinois River weather is notoriously inclement and you should come prepared for cold and rainy conditions. DO NOT SKIMP ON THE EQUIPMENT LIST! Because the river is extremely cold, we require that all trip members have a "Farmer-John" type wetsuit, at least one thick, polypropylene, fleece top, and a sturdy waterproof rainshell. A "Farmer-John" wetsuit covers the torso and legs but is sleeveless, allowing good shoulder movement; 3mm or 1/8 inch thickness is ideal. Fleece garments retain their insulation even when wet and are ideal for river wear. One or two pile or fleece sweaters, jackets or expedition weight long underwear tops, (commonly called Polartec or Polarfleece) are advised. A waterproof rainshell or paddling jacket will keep you dry on the river and in camp - make sure it is waterproof, not just water-repellant. Also, polypropylene pile or fleece socks, (not cotton!), and a pile or fleece hat will help keep you warm on really cold days.
Types of boats:
Due to the difficulty of the Illinois River we only offer oar-paddle combination rafts.
Oar-paddle combination rafts are 14 or 16 feet long and are configrured to allow two or four paddlers to assist a guide who rows the raft using 10 foot oars. The precision of an oar raft and the power of a paddle raft makes this the ideal rig for the Illinois.
Meals:
ARTA meals are well-balanced and consist of quality foods with fresh meats, fruits, and vegetables. The guides double as camp chefs and the menu includes a wide variety of dishes. Lunches usually consist of hand-foods and are served picnic-style at riverside stops. Dinners and breakfasts are cooked over an open fire and often include tasty Dutch Oven baked treats. If you have special dietary requirements or are celebrating a special event during the trip, please let us know in advance.
Drinks:
ARTA provides fruit drinks at meals. If you would like soda, beer, wine, or liquor with your dinner, please bring your own in unbreakable containers, (beer and soda in cans, wine and liquor in plastic bottles). Due to weight and space restrictions, we ask that you limit the amount of canned drinks to a moderate amount.
Weather:
Think rain! The Illinois is only runnable during the early spring when the weather is usually wet. It doesn’t rain all the time, (it sometimes snows), but you should be prepared for drizzly overcast days. Highs are usually in the 60’s with lows in the 40’s. The water temperature is in the 40’s.
Local Attractions:
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival in nearby Ashland is renowned for its Elizabethan Stagehouse and repertoire of Shakespearean drama. Call the Box Office, 541-482-2111 for ticket information. Also in the area is scenic Crater Lake National Park.
Travel Insurance:
We recommend that you purchase short-term travel insurance that provides trip cancellation and medical coverage for you and your family. Please request a Travel Insurance packet from ARTA if you have not already received one.
Gratuities:
We want you to feel like a guest in our home and tipping is never expected. It is certainly appreciated, however, and is accepted as recognition of an outstanding trip or exemplary service. Normal tips range from 5% to 10% of the trip cost and are usually given to the Lead Guide who splits them equally among the entire crew.
Whether and how much you tip should depend on your satisfaction with the guide service, your financial means, and your feelings about tipping in general.
More Information
If there are any questions we haven't answered, please feel free to contact us. Our office staff enjoys telling folks about our trips, so don't hesitate to call 800-323-2782.
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