Before You Go
Oregon Rowing Guide School
Overview
TRIP SNAPSHOT
We pride ourselves in running a relaxed and flexible schedule. Every trip is different depending upon the group, other trips on the water, and sometimes the weather. Please refer to your confirmation letter for the exact dates of your trip.
| MEETING PLACE: | OARS Rogue River Rafting, 397 Harris Rd, Grants Pass, OR 97526 |
| MEETING TIME: | 8:00 AM |
| RETURN TIME: | Approximately 8:00 PM |
| RIVER RATING: | Class II-III (with one Class IV rapid) |
| RIVER MILES: | Klamath River: 18-22; Rogue River: 40 |
| TRIP LENGTH: | 7 days/6 nights |
| BOAT OPTIONS: | Oar raft |
Itinerary at a Glance
THE DAY BEFORE YOUR TRIP
Guide school participants are welcome to camp on-site at the OARS base the night before guide school begins but is not required.
Day 1
Arrive at the OARS base in Grants Pass, OR at 8:00 AM. Meet the instructor team and get to know your fellow students. Together we’ll pack and load all our rafting gear and food into the trucks and trailers and drive to the Klamath River. At the put-in, you will learn a little bit about rigging and river safety before we head downriver. When we arrive at our camp for the evening you will learn how to set up a typical river kitchen, bathroom, and classroom. After dinner and closing down camp for the evening, there will be time to relax.
Day 2-3
Instruction on the Klamath. Refer to the trip page for a detailed daily itinerary.
Around lunchtime on Day 3, we will arrive at our take-out, load all our gear onto the truck, and drive back to the OARS base. We will spend the afternoon resupplying food and cleaning some of the used equipment before having dinner and camping on-site for the evening.
Day 4-6
Instruction on the Rogue River. Refer to the trip page for a detailed daily itinerary.
The Last Day of Your Trip
After lunch on Day 7, we will arrive at take-out, pack up, and drive back to OARS. Students and instructors will spend the afternoon and evening unloading, cleaning, and organizing all of the equipment. Participants can expect to be done for the day around 8:00 PM. Dinner will be provided. You are free to head home or continue on to your next adventure. Participants are also welcome to camp on-site at OARS this final night.
INCLUDED IN YOUR TRIP COST
- Skilled, professional guide service and world-class instruction
- All meals from lunch on day 1 through dinner on the final day
- Expedition equipment, including highest quality rafts, 2-person shared tent, personal flotation device (PFD), helmet, waterproof bags, camp chair, as well as eating utensils and plates
- 5 nights riverside camping, 1 night camping on-site at OARS
- Highest-quality inflatable rafts and all essential expedition equipment
- 2 waterproof bags to hold your gear for the trip (approximate sealed size: 13” diameter x 25” tall; 3318 cu in; 54.4 L). Your sleeping bag and pad must fit into 1 bag and your remaining gear will fit into the other bag. If you rent our gear it will come already packed in 1 of the 2 waterproof bags. Your remaining gear, therefore, must fit in 1 bag.
- 1 small waterproof bag for a camera and other small items you’ll want during the day (approximate sealed size: 17” tall x 9” diameter; 1081 cu in; 17.7 L)
- 2-person tents, based on double occupancy. Solo travelers and odd numbers on the booking will have their own tent (no additional cost) and will not need to share. Extra tents can be rented for $30 each.
- Personal flotation device (PFD) and helmet, which must be worn at all times on the river in compliance with safety regulations
- 12-ounce insulated mug to keep drinks hot (or cold) in camp. NOTE: This will not suffice as your water bottle
- Camp chairs
- Eating utensils and plates
- Transfers to and from the river
- Wetsuit–weather dependent (does not include footwear of any kind, including wetsuit booties)
NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR TRIP COST
- Transportation to and from OARS Rogue River Rafting
- Pre- and post-trip accommodations and meals
- Rogue River Access Fee
- Sleeping bag & a deluxe 3-inch thick sleeping pad (these items may be rented from OARS)
- Insurance of any kind, including a travel protection plan
- Items of a personal nature (see suggested packing list below)
- Alcohol
- Gratuities for your instructors
AVAILABLE FOR RENT
Please indicate on your guest registration form whether you want to rent a sleep kit or prefer to bring your own.
- Sleep Kit: Can be rented for $40 per person. Sleep kits consist of a sleeping bag with zipped-in sheet liner, a deluxe 3-inch thick sleeping pad, ground tarp, pillow, and pillowcase.
- Sleeping Pad Only: The deluxe 3-inch thick pad only may be rented for $15
- 2-Person Tent: Included with your trip cost
Getting Ready
PRE-TRIP CHECKLIST
☐ Consider Purchasing Travel Protection: Learn more about the plan we highly recommend and get a quote.
☐ Trip Forms: Each participant will need to complete the required trip forms within two weeks of making a booking. Refer to your confirmation email for the link to the online forms. If you prefer to fill out paper forms, please let us know right away. If you are reserving within 60 days of departure, your forms must be completed immediately to ensure we can properly plan for your trip.
☐ Reserve flights, shuttles, and lodging: Verify with your adventure consultant that your trip has met minimum numbers prior to booking flights and/or reserving overnight lodging for the night before and after your trip, if applicable. It is important to make reservations early as rooms may be limited during peak travel periods.
☐ Whitewater Orientation: To increase your safety, we expect everyone to watch our Whitewater Orientation video before joining us.
☐ Physical Requirements: Your outdoor adventure will be an active participatory trip. Please inform us of any physical limitations you may have as soon as possible. If you exceed 260 pounds, please give us a call. Make sure you are exercising frequently in the months leading up to your trip and can meet our Essential Eligibility Criteria.
☐ Payments: Final payment is due in our office 60 days prior to your trip (refer to your invoice for final payment date). Please let us know if you would like for us to automatically charge your credit card on file when final payment is due.
RIVER RUNNERS’ RESPONSIBILITY CODE
1. Read the pre-trip literature and arrive at the meeting place on time.
2. Understand the risks: your safety is ultimately your responsibility.
3. Treat your fellow guests and guides with respect and courtesy; harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
4. Wear clothing and personal protective equipment suitable for the current conditions.
5. Listen to and follow the guides’ instructions.
6. Abide by the managing agency’s rules.
7. No drugs or alcohol prior to or during your trip.; alcohol is allowed in moderation in camp on overnight trips.
8. Minimize your impact on the environment.
9. Wear the OARS-issued and properly–fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all times when in the boats or swimming. Wear a helmet when required.
10. Your children are your responsibility!
Travel Arrangements
Getting to GRANTS PASS, OR
We recommend flying into Medford, Oregon. United, Horizon / Alaska, Delta, Allegiant, and American Airlines all fly into Medford. As an alternative, Portland International has more frequent flight options. There are several car rental companies located at both airports, or you may choose to take a shuttle from Medford to OARS Rogue River Rafting in Grants Pass, OR.
Shuttle Services
Airport rides can be arranged through Uber, Lyft, Rogue Taxi, or Double “D” Taxi. If you are using a shuttle service from the airport please make arrangements before you arrive.
Double “D” Taxi: (541) 476-7773
Rogue Taxi: (541) 476-7773
Parking
If you’re arriving by car, parking is available at the OARS Warehouse. On the morning of departure, OARS staff will be present to show you to the designated parking area where your vehicle will stay during the duration of your trip. We cannot guarantee parking for large RVs or trailers will be available.
*OARS cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage to vehicles or their contents.
RECOMMEND PRE- AND POST-TRIP ACCOMMODATIONS
You may camp on-site at OARS Rogue River Rafting the nights before and after guide school at no cost. Please let us know in advance if you plan to camp.
Otherwise, we recommend that you make reservations well in advance in order to guarantee lodging. (Pre- and post-trip lodging is not included in the trip cost).
Recommended:
GRANTS PASS
*La Quinta Inn & Suites: (541) 472-0152
*La Quinta Inn & Suites offers a discounted rate for OARS guests. Please use this link to make your reservation.
*OARS cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage to vehicles or their contents.
Useful Information
DIETARY RESTRICTIONS
Beyond our standard menu, we can provide options for vegetarian, vegan, and many allergy-restricted diets without applying a fee. However, we cannot always provide the same diversity or sophistication for restricted diets as we do for our regular menu. Similarly, certain allergen-free snack foods are difficult or impossible to source in our locations, so feel free to bring your own favorite snacks to supplement our provisions. Please let your Adventure Consultant know if you intend to do so.
BEVERAGES/WATER
We carry sufficient drinking water along with us to provide for your needs throughout the trip. Water jugs are accessible in camp, at lunchtime, and before hikes for filling personal water bottles. In some cases, we will resupply water jugs with river water filtered through a purification system we provide. (No iodine is used in the purification process.)
We provide plenty of water, electrolyte mix, and lemonade throughout the trip. While on the river, we provide one soda per person per day along with a limited supply of beer and wine. You are welcome to bring your own favorite beverages, alcoholic or non-alcoholic, in non-glass containers. If you choose to bring additional beverages, please let us know in advance. For your safety and the safety of others, alcoholic beverages are limited at camp.
BATHING
Bathing with soap is discouraged on the Lower Klamath River, but allowed on the Rogue River. Bathing in the side streams that feed into either river is not allowed. If you plan to bring soap, we recommend using a liquid biodegradable soap like Campsuds or Dr. Bronner’s, which can be purchased in most stores that have a camping section, or another eco-friendly soap option. Bathing wipes (pre-moistened disposable towels, preferably biodegradable) are good alternatives to submersion in the river and are especially convenient for spring and fall trips.
WILDFIRES & SMOKE
Fire activity can impact the air quality on our trips, and occasionally wildfires may be present in the immediate vicinity of where we’re traveling. In general, we will not cancel a trip on account of smoky conditions, except in cases of clear danger to life or property.
Learn more about rafting during wildfire season with OARS, including info about some of our protocols and travel protection recommendations.
Click on the links below for additional information on the following topics:
- Electronics & Technology
- Cameras
- CPAP Machine
- Power Sources
- Communication
- Portable Toilet
- Smoking, Vaping & Cannabis
- Firearms
Weather
We recommend checking Weather Underground one week before your trip for an up-to-date weather forecast for Grants Pass, OR. Being properly prepared for weather variations is an important factor in fully enjoying your trip.
AVERAGE AIR & WATER TEMPERATURES
| Air (Day)°F | Air (Night)°F | Water Temp °F | |
| May | 65-75 | 40-50 | 58 |
Packing for Your Trip
For more helpful information about what to wear and how to pack for a river expedition or to view our packing video, please visit our packing essentials page.
We want you to be prepared and comfortable for your trip. Below you’ll find some general tips for how to dress and what to pack and a comprehensive packing checklist. The need for warm weather or cold weather items should be based on a reliable weather forecast leading up to your trip.
Clothing
During the day—Start with a swimsuit and/or swim trunks and a synthetic or Merino wool shirt as a base layer. Additional layers for sun protection or insulation can be added and subtracted depending on the weather, temperature, and how wet you’re getting in the rapids.
In camp—When the weather is warm, lightweight cotton pants/shorts and shirts make great camp wear. Anytime the forecast calls for cool evenings and cold nights, a dry set of long underwear is the perfect base layer under long pants and a fleece sweater.
Footwear
During the day—The best choice is an amphibious shoe that drains water, protects your toes, and won’t come off in swirling currents. A retired pair of athletic shoes can work well, too. Sport sandals with a heel strap are a good option. Find professional-grade options made by Chaco®, the official footwear sponsor of OARS guides.
In camp—We recommend wearing shoes in camp due to the risk of kicking a rock buried in the sand or stepping on a sharp stick. It’s also nice to put on dry socks and shoes after a day on the water. The athletic shoes or light hikers you bring for hiking can double as your camp shoes. Flip flops or slip-on sandals are OK for wearing in camp only.
Please note: If you buy new shoes or sandals for the trip, make sure you break them in first! See our guide to footcare on river trips for more helpful tips.
Headwear
During the day—Wide-brimmed hats are a good choice for sun protection. Ball caps are also useful since they fit under helmets, which are required attire when paddling our whitewater rivers.
In camp—When the weather is cool or cold, you’ll want a non-cotton beanie-style hat to wear in camp. They are the perfect remedy for bed-head as you rise from your sleeping bag to secure your morning cup of coffee or tea, or for retaining warmth in the evening hours after the sun sets.
To Avoid Being Cold
Synthetic or Merino wool long underwear is a must-have on river trips. It can be worn under shorts, rain gear, T-shirts, etc., then stripped off when the chill of the morning has worn off. It keeps you warm even if it’s wet (which can happen easily), dries quickly, and it’s compact enough to be stuffed into your small waterproof bag or daypack after you take it off. It can be layered under your waterproof rain jacket and pants. In cooler weather, a rain jacket and pants can work better than a wetsuit. This is because the jacket and pants can be put on when it’s cold or when you’re going through whitewater, then easily taken off when the sun comes out and it’s hot.
On early-season and high-water trips, wetsuits will be provided for paddlers. After June 1st, wetsuits will be available by advance request only. Be aware that cotton items, once wet, do not insulate; only synthetic and wool materials will keep you warm during cool, wet weather.
Something warm for your top and bottom: You need to be prepared for inclement weather. Bring a good fleece or wool top and bottom, along with a warm hat and gloves. You’ll want to double up on your base layers so that you’ll have a set to wear in the boat and a set of warm, dry clothes for camp.
May on the Rogue
May is surely one of the most beautiful months to be on the Rogue River, but this area of Oregon can experience extreme changes in weather. Therefore, it is very important that you come prepared with extra layers and follow the advice in the “To Avoid Being Cold” and “Something warm for your top & bottom” sections above. Even though you may not use every item, it is better to be prepared!
Rain Gear
Rain gear protects you from rain, wind, and the splash of the rapids. It is one of the essential items that all guests should have no matter what time of year you are traveling. Look for a jacket and pants that are 100% waterproof, not just water resistant. A hooded jacket is recommended. Good secure closures around your head, neck, wrists, and ankles. Do not bring a rain poncho, as it cannot be worn under your PFD.
Sun Protection
Protecting yourself from the sun should be taken very seriously! In many cases, a long-sleeve shirt is the best method for preventing sunburn on your upper body. Lightweight long pants may also be appropriate to protect your legs. A hat, sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses are also a must.
Bugs & Mosquitoes
Bugs and mosquitoes vary depending on location and time of year. It’s a good idea to come prepared with insect repellent. Long-sleeved shirts and pants may be desirable at times. Often yellow jackets and wasps can be a nuisance. We recommend a eucalyptus and lemongrass repellent. If you have moderate to severe allergies, you are required to bring two personal epi-pens.
Menstrual Cycle
Even if you aren’t anticipating your menstrual period, come prepared for it. We recommend you bring some sandwich-size zip-close bags. These bags can store products during the day while you are on the river. Used pads or tampons can be disposed of in the trash at lunch or at camp. We provide some menstrual products on most trips for emergencies. See our Guide to Feminine Hygiene on the River for more tips.
Sleeping Gear
You can either bring your own sleeping bag, pad, and ground tarp, or you can rent our sleep kit. If you are bringing your own bag for the trip, keep in mind that a synthetic-fill bag rated to 20°F (the normal range for an all-around, “three-season” bag) is recommended for early-season trips.
PACKING LIST
Equipment and Personal Items
☐ Sleeping bag, pad, sheet liner, small pillow, 5×7-foot tarp. Sleep kits including these items may be rented for $40. (For trips in May we suggest a synthetic-fill bag rated to 20°F.)
☐ One 1-liter water bottle: durable and reusable, insulated bottles recommended for trips in hot climates to prevent water from becoming too hot to drink
☐ Hand sanitizer
☐ Headlamp or flashlight (consider bringing extra batteries)
☐ Polarized sunglasses with securing strap (consider bringing a spare)
☐ Quick-drying towel (such as those made by Rumpl)
☐ Toiletries, including biodegradable soap (such as Campsuds or Dr. Bronner’s)
☐ Sunscreen and lip protection: waterproof & SPF 30 or higher (aerosol sprays not recommended)
☐ Moisturizing lotion or cream
☐ Insect repellent
☐ Personal first-aid kit (Band-aids, antibiotic ointment, ibuprofen, moleskin, eye drops, etc.)
☐ Spare pair of glasses and/or contacts
☐ Cash for gratuities
Footwear
☐ River shoes or sandals with a heel strap (such as those made by Chaco®); “Aqua socks” strongly discouraged
☐ Athletic shoes or light hikers
☐ Hiking socks
Clothing
☐ Long-sleeved shirt: lightweight and light color for sun protection (old dress shirts work well)
☐ Long pants: lightweight and light color for sun protection
☐ Shade hat or visor with securing strap–flexible enough to fit under your helmet
☐ Rain jacket & pants: waterproof (not water resistant). A hooded jacket with secure closures is recommended
☐ Swimwear: tankinis and board shorts are a great option
☐ Underwear
☐ Shorts: 1 pair
☐ T-shirts/tops: 1-2
☐ Synthetic or Merino wool long underwear top & bottom: 1 set light to mid-weight
☐ Jacket: fleece or down/synthetic fill puffy (depending on the time of year, weather, and location)
☐ Camp clothes: comfortable and appropriate for the season. Cotton is recommended for hot weather trips. Some guests may prefer an athletic skirt or dress.
Additional Essentials for Spring Trips
☐ Extra pair of dry footwear for camp
☐ Wetsuit booties and/or neoprene socks
☐ Fleece top & bottom
☐ Warm hat and gloves: synthetic or wool
☐ Extra set of synthetic or Merino wool long underwear top and bottom
Optional Items
☐ Camera and accessories
☐ Fishing gear
☐ Lightweight, packable blanket (such as those made by Rumpl)
☐ Sarong: useful for sun protection, evaporative cooling, changing clothes, etc.
☐ Small day pack, waist pack, or hydration pack for side hikes
☐ Bathing wipes: pre-moistened disposable cleansing towels
☐ Small bags: stuff sacks, zip-close bags, or similar for organizing items in your dry bag
☐ Large empty bag: laundry bag, pillow case, or similar for putting clothes into after your trip
☐ Earplugs
☐ Binoculars
☐ Splash jacket and pants
☐ Lightweight cord and clothespins for drying clothes
☐ Sketchbook, notebook and pen, paperback book
☐ Bandana
☐ Stand-up urination device
*Some of the links above are affiliate links and OARS will receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase based on our recommendations.
Packing Your Gear
At the pre-trip meeting, each person will be given two large waterproof bags (approximate sealed size: 13” diameter x 25” tall; 3318 cu in; 54.4 L). One bag will be for your clothing and personal items. The second bag will be for your sleeping gear (sleeping bag, sleeping pad, ground tarp, sheet, and pillow). These two bags will essentially be your “checked luggage” and will only be accessible in camp. Tents are stowed separately. If you rent our sleep kit, it will come already packed in one of the two waterproof bags issued to each guest.
We also provide a small waterproof bag per person for day use, where you can keep items such as rain gear, camera, sunscreen, lip balm, etc. (approximate sealed size: 17” tall x 9” diameter; 1081 cu in; 17.7 L). The bags are cylindrical and pack from the top. Please pack light; river attire is very casual―comfort, convenience, and boat space take precedence over style. At the end of the trip, you will return to Whitewater Cowboys with your packed waterproof bags where you will be able to unpack your gear for your return trip home.
Extra Luggage
If you have extra luggage, it should be locked in your car at the OARS base.
Valuables
We recommend you leave your valuables at home. For personal items like wallets, purses, and cell phones, we recommend leaving them in your car.
HELPFUL LINKS
- Visit our Trip Resources page for more info on the use of drones, electronics, cannabis, CPAP Machines, firearms, and more.
- Find all the gear you need for your trip online at REI
Reminders
GRATUITIES
Tipping is appreciated by our staff. If you are wondering how much to tip, you may consider that we operate in a service industry with a host of behind-the-scenes contributors in addition to the guides on your trip. In general, we suggest a gratuity based on 10 – 15% of the trip cost. It is customary on OARS trips for gratuities to be given to the Trip Leader, in the form of cash or a personal check, who will then distribute appropriately amongst all the guides and support staff.
SOMETHING VOLUNTARY
In reviewing your statement, you’ll note a $1/person/day donation to American Rivers, a non-profit conservation organization dedicated to Wild and Scenic Rivers. One hundred percent of these funds go directly to the organization, and your contribution is tax-deductible. This donation is voluntary. Please notify our office if you would prefer to delete the donation from your balance.
Terms & Conditions
Reservations and Payments
A $400/person deposit is required at the time of booking with final payment due 60 days before departure. Accounts on which final payment has not been received 50 days before the departure date will be canceled.
Payments can be made by check, money order, eCheck, wire transfer, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover. Prices are in US Dollars, and all payments must be made in US Dollars. Payment of the deposit establishes your acceptance of our complete Terms and Conditions. Individual departures and trip capacity are strictly limited by the managing agency. Your payment is fully refundable for 7 days, less a 3% processing fee, after making a reservation when you reserve a trip 7 days or more prior to the final payment due date.
Cancellations and Refunds
Canceling your trip after your deposit is processed will incur cancellation fees because OARS has absorbed costs on your behalf and will turn others away who would like to book the spaces we’re holding for you. If you must cancel your reservation after the rescission period described above, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the schedule below.
We regret that we cannot make exceptions to the cancellation policy for any reason, including foul weather, poor air quality, wildfire activity, acts of terrorism, civil unrest, or personal emergencies. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to consider purchasing a travel protection plan.
| DATE OF CANCELLATION | CANCELLATION FEE |
| 180 or more days before your trip | $50/person |
| 179 – 90 days before your trip | $100/person |
| 89 – 60 days before your trip | $200/person. The remainder of your payment can be transferred to another trip within the same year (or to a credit account for the following year). No refund. |
| 59 days or less before your trip | Full fare |
Please note that different deposit/cancellation policies may apply for charter groups. Refer to the group organizer’s confirmation email for details.
Canceled Trips
OARS reserves the right to cancel any trip due to insufficient registration or other factors that make the trip impractical to operate. In such instances, we will inform you at least 45 days prior to departure. Do not make non-refundable travel arrangements until you have verified with OARS that your trip is confirmed.
If a trip must be canceled or postponed due to force majeure (factors outside the control of OARS), OARS will provide full credit for payments made toward future travel, or a refund less the initial deposit amount and any non-refundable payments made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers. OARS will make good faith efforts to recover deposits made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers; however, we cannot guarantee recovery of any or all of the advance payments made. OARS is not responsible for expenses incurred by participants in preparation for a canceled trip.
Transfers
If you need to move your reservation to a different trip during the same season, or to a credit account for the following year, there is a $25/person fee up until 90 days before departure for a one-time transfer of your payment. Transfer requests made 89 days or less before departure will be treated like a cancellation according to the schedule above.
Medical
Under most circumstances, if you are of an adventurous spirit and in reasonably good health, you should have no problem enjoying an OARS trip. People with medical conditions, including pregnancy, should have a physician’s approval before taking an adventure travel trip.
Travel Protection
Because there are costs that you will incur if you cancel the spaces on this trip that we’re now holding for you, or in the event you need to be evacuated during the trip due to an unforeseen illness or injury, we strongly encourage our guests to purchase an optional travel protection plan. A travel protection plan may help reimburse the cost of your pre-paid, non-refundable payments in the event you are prevented from taking your trip for a covered reason. Trip participants must understand that in the event of an illness or injury on a wilderness trip, evacuation can be prolonged, difficult, and expensive. Learn more about the plan we recommend.
Please note: To be eligible for coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, you must purchase the plan within 21 days of your initial trip payment and you must be medically fit to travel at the time you pay for the plan.
Emergency Medical Evacuation coverage can be purchased as stand-alone coverage, independent of a comprehensive travel protection plan. You can get a quote for this type of policy by entering a Trip Cost amount of $0 when getting a quote.
Please note: By entering a Trip Cost amount of $0, the plan will not include Trip Cancellation coverage and you may not be eligible for Emergency Medical Expense benefits relating to any pre-existing conditions.
Liability Release / Assumption of Risk
Everyone is required to sign a standard liability release / assumption of risk form before the trip, confirming awareness that there are inherent risks associated with the trip. Due to the nature of the activities, a condition of your participation is that you will sign this form and return it to our office before the trip begins. Anyone who refuses to sign the form will not be allowed to participate, and consistent with OARS cancellation policy, there will be no refund of the trip fees at that time.
Responsibility – An Important Notice
O.A.R.S. West, Inc. and cooperating agencies act only in the capacity of agent for the participants in all matters relating to transportation and/or all other related travel services and assume no responsibility however caused for injury, loss, or damage to person or property in connection with any service, including but not limited to that resulting directly or indirectly from acts of God, detention, annoyance, delays and expenses arising from quarantine, pandemics, strikes, theft, pilferage, force majeure, failure of any means of conveyance to arrive or depart as scheduled, civil disturbances, government restrictions or regulations, and discrepancies or change in transit over which it has no control. Reasonable changes in the itinerary may be made where deemed advisable for the comfort and wellbeing of the participants, including cancellation due to water fluctuation, insufficient bookings, and other factors. There is risk in whitewater rafting, particularly during high-water conditions. Rafts, dories, and kayaks do capsize. You could be swept overboard. Your guide will make every attempt to assist, but you must be strong and agile enough to “self-help” and “float-it-out” without further endangering yourself or others. We reserve the right not to accept guests weighing more than 260 pounds or with a waist/chest size exceeding 56 inches. We may decide, at any time, to exclude any person or group for any reason we feel is related to the safety of our trips. We are experienced in accommodating people with various disabilities. Please give us an opportunity to make you feel welcome. We need to discuss any special requirements ahead of time.
OARS trips occur in areas where unpredictable environmental conditions are to be expected. To moderate dangerous situations for our guests and guides, all travelers must obey the rules and regulations as determined by the managing agencies and the Trip Leader and demonstrate reasonable consideration for other guests and OARS employees. We reserve the right to remove any guest from a trip if, in our opinion, that guest’s actions or behaviors pose a threat to the safety of her/himself or others, or if those actions or behaviors compromise the enjoyment of the trip for others. Should a guest be asked to leave a trip, there will be no refund for the unused portion, nor will OARS be responsible for additional expenses incurred by the guest for accommodations, return transport, change fees, etc. Prices subject to change without notice. Upon advancement of deposit, the depositor agrees to be bound by the above-recited terms and conditions. OARS is an equal opportunity provider.
