North Umpqua River - Pinball log is gone

The Forest Service just notified us that the log on the North Umpqua River which was entirely blocking Pinball rapid has been removed. The log was placed during the high water earlier in the year and remained until removed this last weekend. Until recently the rapid had still been navigable to by passing around the log on one of the sides but as the water dropped the path disappeared and an on shore portage became the only option.
Here are some pictures, Thanks to the Forest Service for the timely removal!

Pre-Removal after the water was too low to raft around

After Removal

Oregon family weekend vacation number 2, rafting, camping, hiking and hotsprings

Southern Oregon family weekend vacation number 2 is.......

This a great adventure weekend for any active family looking to get out and work their muscles a little.
Start the Oregon family adventure weekend in Roseburg when you meet your guides for the day of rafting on the North Umpqua River. The North Umpqua is one of Oregon's best day long rafting trips with more rapids per mile than you can count, crystal clear water, and spectacular evergreen sceneryy. The North Umpqua is one of my favorites for paddle rafting (especially for families) or running in the inflatable kayaks (slightly more adventurous). The numerous class III rapids just keep the excitement coming. The day of rafting on the North Umpqua River includes lunch along the way and 6-7 hours of white water you will remember forever. If you have time, choose to do the 2 day rafting trip and have a night at the famous Steamboat Inn before another great day on a different section of the river.

After a day or two running the waves of the Umpqua you can head towards the mountains to catch some vistas and switch from working the arms to trying out your legs. On your way up into the hills stop and relax your tired muscles in some hot springs. However, if you are traveling with the family go with caution as in most hot springs people often like to get back to nature and soak in the nude. Continuing on your way up into the hills stop and take the 0.4 mile hike to Toketee falls before driving up to Diamond Lake. As you drive you will pass multiple areas to camp, but for the family trip a nice campground right on the lake is Broken Arrow.
After the night roasting marsh mellows with the family and laughing about the days rafting adventure wake up and head to Crate Lake National Park to see one of the worlds most spectacular lakes. Crater Lake National Park has something for everyone with great hiking, scenery, a historic lodge, and everything else you would expect of a national park.

Keep on the lookout for more great family vacation ideas in southern Oregon.

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