So I've never been on the Deschutes, but I'm looking to do a multiway out there, potentially by raft.
Is this a permitted river? If so what's the best way to obtain one?
What section would be good for 3 days? I'm looking for class 3, with little class 4.
Are there places down there to rent rafts from?
Also has anyone been out there lately? Just wondering if it's super busy since not many rivers are running....
Shuttle service needed?
Ok thanks ahead of time!
Cheers,
Megan

Definitely in the class III range. Hardest rapid on the mecca to sandy beach section is Oak Springs, but III+ at best (not IV as claimed).
The section below Shearers falls (buck hollow to the confluence, heritage landing) is also pretty awesome. Slightly different scenery (more canyon like), feels more remote, some sandy beaches, and I always thought the water felt slightly warmer than the upper (the water is cool b/c it comes out the bottom of the pelton dam). My theory was always that the aeration from Shearers falls warms the water slightly, but who knows, probably all in my head. This section is also a three day with the third being more of a half day, depending on how you camp. There is a restriction on the lower in the last 10 miles I believe which prohibits floaters from stopping/camping on shore b/c use is granted to walk ins.

Also, there is a restriction on camping on islands on both the mecca to sandy and buck to heritage sections.

I guided both of these sections, a lot, for about seven years. Let me know if you have any specific questions.

Thank you!