Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your adventure! If you have questions that are not covered in this section, feel free to contact us.
Whitewater Rafting
1. Do I need rafting experience? Not at all! Our trips are designed for everyone, from first-timers to experienced paddlers. Our guides provide step-by-step instructions and safety tips so you can relax, have fun, and enjoy the adventure. 2. What should I wear? Comfort is key! Quick-drying layers work best—think swimwear or athletic wear, water shoes or sandals with straps, and a hat and sunglasses. Avoid cotton, since it stays wet. We provide life jackets, and wetsuits are available when the water’s chilly. 3. Will I get wet? Yes! Rafting is all about splashes, laughs, and maybe a little unexpected dip. Don’t worry—our guides are trained to keep everyone safe, even if someone takes a surprise swim. 4. Is rafting safe? Absolutely. Safety is our top priority. All our guides are certified in first aid, CPR, and swift water rescue. Before every trip, we walk you through everything you need to know to feel confident on the river. 5. Do I need to know how to swim? No swimming skills? No problem! Everyone wears a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket, designed to keep you afloat. Just let us know if you’re not comfortable in the water, and we’ll make sure you feel secure. 6. Is there a minimum age to participate in whitewater rafting? The minimum age requirement to participate in a whitewater rafting tour with Bend Backcountry is 6 years old. 7. What should I bring? Bring a towel, change of clothes, sunscreen, and sunglasses. A small waterproof bag for your essentials is handy. Leave valuables behind, or stow them in your car. 8. Can I bring alcohol? We focus on fun, safe adventures. Please do not bring alcohol, as consumption of alcoholic beverages is not permitted while rafting. 9. What if the weather isn’t perfect? Rafting is fun in rain or shine, but safety comes first. If conditions aren’t safe, we’ll reschedule or advise on alternatives. 10. Do I need to tip my guide? Tipping your guide is entirely up to you, but it's always appreciated! If your guide made the trip awesome, a tip is a great way to say thanks. Most people tip around 10-20% of the trip cost, but anything will be greatly appreciated as nothing is required. 11. Do I need to sign a waiver? Yes, all participants sign a waiver to ensure everyone understands the risks. Minors need a parent or guardian to sign for them. 12. What are the Cancellation and Refund Policies? For our whitewater rafting tours, we do not charge a fee for cancellations made more than 5 days before your trip. If you cancel your trip between 1 and 5 days before your reservation time, a 50% cancellation fee applies with the remaining amount refunded. We do not issue refunds for no-shows or cancellations within 24 hours of your scheduled trip. For our tube rental and shuttle service, we do not charge a fee for cancellations made more than 24 hours before our trip. We do not issue refunds for no-shows or cancellations within 24 hours of your scheduled trip.
Guided Hikes
1. What should I bring on a guided hike? •Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing •Sturdy hiking shoes or boots •Water (at least 1 liter per person for shorter hikes). We always bring extra water and water bottles. •Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen •Optional: trekking poles, camera, binoculars 2. How long are the hikes? Hike lengths vary depending on the trail and difficulty: •Easy hikes: 1–2 hours, mostly flat terrain •Moderate hikes: 2–4 hours, some elevation •Advanced hikes: 4+ hours, steep or rugged terrain 3. What is the group size for hikes? Groups typically range from 3 to 12 participants. 4. Are the hikes suitable for beginners? Yes! We offer beginner-friendly hikes with gentle terrain and a slower pace. Our guides provide tips and support along the way. 5. Are pets allowed on guided hikes? Pets are generally not permitted due to safety and wildlife considerations. Please check with the guide if you wish to bring a service animal. 6. What if it rains or the weather is bad? Hikes may be rescheduled or adjusted for safety. Some light rain is usually okay, but severe weather (thunderstorms, extreme heat, heavy snow, ice) may require cancellation. 7. How physically demanding are the hikes? Hikes vary from easy strolls to strenuous treks. We tailor our hiking adventures to needs and preferences of your group. 8. Can children join? Children are welcome on our hiking adventures; the route and distance of the hike will be tailored to the needs, preferences, and comfort of your group. 9. Are food and drinks provided? You should bring water, but we do always have extra water bottles just in case. We provide snacks. There will be a section on your booking form that allows you let us know of any dietary restrictions or preferences. 10. Are guided hikes safe? All guides are trained in first aid, trail safety, and local regulations. Safety is our top priority. 11. What if I have medical conditions or physical limitations? Please inform us when booking (there will be a section on the booking form that allows you to let us know of any physical or medical limitations of anyone in your group. Our guides can advise on suitable hikes or make accommodations where possible. 12. Do I need to tip my guide? Tipping your guide is entirely up to you, but it's always appreciated! If your guide made the trip awesome, a tip is a great way to say thanks. Most people tip around 10-20% of the trip cost, but anything will be greatly appreciated as nothing is required.
River Tube Rentals
1. What’s included with the tube rental? Your rental includes a high-quality river tube and life jacket (required for all floaters). 2. Do I need to wear a life jacket? Yes. Life jackets are required by Oregon law for all river users, and they’re included with your rental. 3. How long is the float? Float times vary with river conditions, but most routes take 1.5 to 3+ hours depending on water levels and speed, or the preference of your group. 4. Can I bring my own tube? Yes, but we recommend our durable tubes designed for Central Oregon rivers—they’re tougher and safer than store-bought inflatables. 5. What should I bring? •Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses •Water shoes or sandals are preferred over flip-flops •Drinking water and snacks •Waterproof phone case or dry bag •Towel and change of clothes for after your float 6. Is alcohol allowed on the river? No. Alcohol and glass containers are prohibited by local regulations for everyone’s safety. 7. What if my tube gets damaged or lost? Minor wear is fine, but lost or severely damaged tubes may incur a replacement fee. Please float responsibly and follow our safety guidelines. 8. Can kids float too? Children 5 and up can join when accompanied by an adult. They must wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times. 9. What if the weather or river conditions are bad? If conditions are unsafe, rentals may be rescheduled or refunded. 10. Are dogs allowed on tubes? Small, well-behaved dogs are welcome on private floats with a life jacket (for the dog too). Check local leash rules before launching. 11. Can I tie my tube to my friend’s? You can, but use caution—linked tubes are harder to steer and can get stuck in eddies or obstacles. Guides can recommend safe connection methods. 12. Do I need to tip my shuttle driver? Tipping your guide is entirely up to you, but it's always appreciated! If your guide made the trip awesome, a tip is a great way to say thanks. Most people tip around 10-20% of the trip cost, but anything will be greatly appreciated as nothing is required.