The John Day is a geological wonderland. It winds through valleys carved from colorful volcanic ash, and in some places, the river cuts through canyons 2000 feet deep. Its basalt formations and bluffs towering high above are truly impressive. The John Day is a semi-desert river traversing a region with few trees. Occasional cottonwoods provide shade and shelter at camp. Abandoned ranches testify to the difficulties of survival in this stark environment. Petroglyghs were left by Indians of the Tenino tribe who had many settlements along the river. 

The John Day supports one of the largest populations of wild Chinook salmon and steelhead in the Columbia basin. There is excellent smallmouth bass fishing available at all times of the year, best in late spring and into summer. 

We will travel 69 river miles, from Clarno to Cottonwood. We will see very few signs of civilization as we float down mellow water sprinkled with a few mild rapids. The solitude and nature's raw beauty are the river's immediate gifts. The relaxation and peace, the sense of renewal are the rewards we carry home.