Rogue River Fires
Last week the BLM closed the Wild and Scenic section of the Rogue River due to the Big Windy Complex fire. The fire was started by lightning on July 26th at around 3:00 AM in the morning. The Big Windy Complex consists of three separate fires - Big Windy, Calvert Peak, and Jenny.
ECHO raft on the Rogue River during the Big Windy Fire
ECHO had a trip launch the day before the closure and although the canyon was smoky they had a wonderful time. Here are some guest quotes:
"Every moment of our trip was perfect, in spite of and maybe even because of the wildfire. I cannot wait to come back and do another ECHO trip. Four stars all around."
"Kaela was a peaceful, zen presence and was a strong leader (we all loved her), the other guides had unique and charming personalities and were very professional and also such fun. Couldn't have had a better trip--especially in a firestorm! I loved our guides. I'd recommend ECHO to everyone."
"Amazing [guides] in the face of adversity....forest fire, air quality, visibility poor...added calm to a chaotic situation. ECHO as far and away the best outfitter I have used after 4 River trips, the guides, food, campsites, amenities etc. were first rate. Heartily recommend. Just ask me."
Since the closure we've cancelled some Rogue River trips and moved some to Central Oregon's Deschutes River. Fire conditions are improving and we're hopeful that the river will again be open in time for next week's trips!
Our good thoughts and support are going to the firefighters and emergency personnel who are tirelessly working to control the fires and keep everyone safe.
