The Metolious river bubbles out of the ground near the base of Black Butte, not far from Sisters, Oregon. The cold, clear blue, and consistent water make it a great, but difficult fishing, as well as fun white water. One of the largest spring fed rivers in the US, this gem of a river offers some fun whitewater paddling. The flows are consistent throughout the year, when they are on the higher side pay attention to the handful of low bridges.
Trip Highlights
Mile 0: Put-in just below where the river comes out of the ground. There are a handful of river access points at campgrounds. Riverside Campground is a good place to start.
Metolius River
Mile 1.5: This is the first bridge you may come to. Considered getting out and walking around as there isn't much room to duck under the bridge. Along this stretch of river you will come across a handful of really low bridges. They are all a quick and easy walk around.
Mile 4: Another low bridge here. However there are stretches of private property long the river, respect any signs along the way. There is also a great view of Mount Jefferson as you float this section of river.
Great Views of Mount Jefferson!
Mile 7.3: Wizard Falls (III) is a swirly rapid that just above a bridge. There should be room on either side of the river to get out and walk around, just be ready to catch a small eddy. This is a popular are for fishing as it is near the Wizard Falls Fitch Hatchery
Mile 10: Lower Bridge Campground is take-out. There is a large pool on river right upstream of the bridge. You may continue down stream but the next take out with road access is Monty Campground, 17 miles down stream.
