{summer of fun} Rogue rafting

As I mentioned before, I spent half of last week and all of last weekend rafting one of Oregon's more beautiful rivers: the Rogue. It was technically a work retreat; every year my company takes its staff, board and spouses on a rafting trip. But, even though it was *work* it was So. Much. Fun. But, clearly, who doesn't have fun when you're on a river for four days in 85 degree weather?

We were on the river for four days and three nights. And, here's where I have a confession: before this trip, I'd never been camping. I know, right? What makes this even more crazy, is that up until a month ago, I worked for our state's parks department. I guess it took leaving there to get me into a tent :). Don't worry, I survived: I set up my own tent, all by myself (Chris couldn't come with me because of his new job :( ), every night. And, it never fell over. Not everyone attending could claim that victory!

So, today, as part of my Summer of Fun series, I'm sharing a few pictures of just how gorgeous the trip was. Lots of amazing green trees, mountains, cliffsides, contrasting against beautiful blue water and quite a few amazing and super fun rapids. In the evenings, we explored trails, waterfalls, and beautiful creeks. We saw bald eagles, golden eagles, a couple (!) bears, and lots of monarch butterflys. It it truly a spectacular stretch of water.

Amazing, no? And that long sleeve shirt I'm sporting? NOT because I was cold. The sun was brutal!

Have you guys been rafting? What's the BEST river you've rafted? If you haven't, I highly recommend getting yourself to a river ASAP and hoping on a raft. It's a great experience! Oh, and that camping thing? I think I like it :).


{For more on my summer of fun, check out my adventures to the Oregon coast, Eastern Washington, and Hood River.}