Clackamas whitewater rafting

Coming up on March 16, the Outdoor Program is hosting a whitewater rafting trip on the Clackamas River, one of the most highly anticipated outings of the season at Portland State.

“This is definitely one of the most popular trips,” Outdoor Program Logistics Coordinator Steve White said. “People typically come in to reserve their spot on the trip on the first day of the term, which is the earliest that people can sign up.”

The day trip will be led by three experienced rafting students, including Taylor Hazen, who noted that, apart from the thrill of the experience out on the water, whitewater rafting is a good way to meet new people on campus.

“You start the day off not knowing anyone, really, and by the end of the day it feels like you have known them your entire life,” Hazen said, “probably because you were all battling Class IV rapids together while cracking jokes and taking in the beautiful Oregon scenery.”

Groups usually include eight or nine people, and the trip is open to beginners and experienced rafters. But participants should be sure to dress warmly.

“We strongly encourage folks to bring a synthetic base layer…such as polypropylene or capilene, a pair of polyester fleece pants and one or more polyester fleece jackets—depending on whether they typically run hot or cold—and a pair of synthetic or wool socks,” White said.

According to White, that’s all you’ll need—PSU takes care of the rest.

“The Outdoor Program provides all other gear, including raft, paddles, dry suit, neoprene booties, neoprene gloves, helmet, personal flotation device, first aid kit and rescue gear, spare warm layers, and transportation to and from PSU,” he said.

For Hazen, one of the highlights of the trip is watching participants bond over their experience on the rapids.

“There is nothing like seeing a group of random people come together to overcome mother nature and leave the grips of the city for once,” Hazen said.

The deadline to sign up is next Wednesday, March 13, at noon, with a pre-trip meeting scheduled for the same day, at 5 p.m. The cost is $35 for Academic and Student Rec Center members and $70 for nonmembers.

For more information, contact the Outdoor Program at 503-725-5668 or visit their office at 505 SW Harrison St. (at the southeast corner of the Rec Center).