Category Archives: Rogue Life

A collection of interviews from people who love the Wild & Scenic Rogue River.

Mary Papale – Rogue River Journeys

Mary Papale is an owner of Idaho River Journeys and Rogue River Journeys. She oversees their Middle Fork of the Salmon operation with her husband, Bob, and often visits the Rogue in the fall after their Idaho season has wrapped up. She winters in Point Reyes, California.

The Interview

What is your connection to the Rogue River?

I first ran the Rogue around 1983 on a private trip organized by my husband, Bob Volpert. We have had a permit on the Rogue now for many years and I have done lots of fall trips after our Idaho season.

Describe your line of work

During the river season I am based with Bob in Salmon, Idaho and help manage our Middle Fork fishing and rafting business.

How long have you been recreating or working on the Rogue?

32 years

What are your favorite qualities of the Rogue River?

I like the ferns that line the river trail, the color of the water, and the many interesting rapids.

Favorite spot on the Rogue?

My favorite place is boating through Mule Creek Canyon. It’s always different and to me is a little bit spooky!

How has the Rogue River changed your life?

Every river that I have boated has changed me. The Rogue was one of the first longer rivers that I ran and it taught me about being outdoors for an extended period of time.

Does the Rogue River have a personality?

It’s a lush river that continually changes and surprises me.

Do you have any memorable stories about the Rogue?

I recall some very intense moments on the Rogue River. Mostly from a trip I did when my eldest son was 6 months old. To get out of the rain with him, I hiked for miles along the river trail. He really enjoyed the hike and even though he was only 6 months old he never cried. I was a little nervous about running into a bear but we never saw one that day in the woods. I was very surprised by how the trail would loop so far back from the river. It took a lot longer to get to camp then I planned on. I was really glad to see our group at the end of the day.

Any last words?

I’m looking forward to my next Rogue River trip.

Roger Goth – Middle Fork Salmon Guide

Roger Goth grew up in Grants Pass, Oregon, and first floated the Rogue River in 1982. He worked on the Rogue for a number years and currently guides in Idaho on the Middle Fork of the Salmon. During the winter he teaches at a middle school in Eugene, Oregon, and spends his off-days outside in the snow or on the water with his dog, Tyee.

The Interview

What is your connection to the Rogue River?

Former guide (maybe become one again when I’m sick of the Middle Fork) and private boater. Worked for Orange Torpedo Trips, Rogue River Raft Trips (BA Hanten) and River Trips Unlimited with Irv Urie.

How long have you been recreating or working on the Rogue?

As long as I can remember. My dad started guiding in 1969 and introduced me to the river young. First private trip in 1982 and started guiding in 1991.

What are your favorite qualities of the Rogue River?

Outstanding scenery, great rapids, with just enough relaxation in between.

Favorite places on the Rogue?

In my boat on the river…… Marial Lodge…. Mule Creek Canyon…

Is there a sense of community on the Rogue?

Many people I know are Rogue boaters and I’m always bumping into people I know in Canyon. Many new friends are made too. I am home when I’m boating the Rogue.

What role has the Rogue played in your life?

The Rogue played a role in shaping who I am. Growing up in Grants Pass, I was fortunate to meet many great boaters and learned to kayak and row on the Rogue. It fueled my desire to be on the river as much as possible, also leading to my career choice as a teacher, freeing up my summers to guide.

What is the personality of the Rogue?

The Rogue can be mellow or it can be mean. Take it for granted you will get bit.

Any last words?

The Rogue Is Home. The perfect place to recharge.

James Thomson – Noah’s Wilderness Adventures

James Thomson is a guide for Noah’s Wilderness Adventures. He works as a fishing guide in the Fall and winters in Jackson, Wyoming. He has been floating the Rogue River since 1983.

The Interview

What is your connection to the Rogue River?

River guide for Noah’s Wilderness Adventures and private boater.

How long have you been recreating or working on the Rogue?

First private trip was 1983. 18 years as a commercial river guide.

What are your favorite qualities of the Rogue River?

Wilderness, whiter water, unique scenic quality, whether, fishing, natural and human history.

Favorite places on the Rogue?

Campsite – Kelsey Creek. River sections – Mule Creek to Brushy Bar, Copper Canyon. Paradise Lodge, Lucas Lodge.

Is there a sense of community on the Rogue?

Yes. The history of the boating and boatmen is rich. A group of people who have become the stewards of the River. Along with the community of lodges it has become a very unique place where everyone looks out for each other, and for the River that is our home.

Does the Rogue play a role in your life?

Many places and many rivers. The Rogue is the one I will always come back to, Home. A place that makes sense in a sometimes senseless world. A true refuge for the soul, a sacred place of rejuvenation.

What is the personality of the Rogue?

So sweet, soft, and warm most of the time… But take her for granted, and she will bite you.

Any last words?

Copper and Gold Reflections

Ouzel dipping, Otter playing, Raven, Eagle, Osprey soaring, Salmon and Steelhead jumping, Bear sniffing, Deer grazing, Cougar watching.

Oars dipping, Flies Twitching, River roaring, Boats Dancing and Dipping.

Fire light, Stars all bright. Stories, Songs, Poems delight.

Copper Gold reflections.

Mary Cone – Guest of ARTA River Trips

Mary Cone is the mother of two river guides who work for ARTA River Trips. She first rafted the Rogue River in 2012.

The Interview

What is your connection to the Rogue River?

I’m the mom of two river guides and (now) a river rafter myself.

What are your favorite qualities of the Rogue River?

Great ARTA guides, beautiful scenery, fun rapids, cool hikes, lovely waterfalls.

Favorite spot on the Rogue?

Anywhere along the river is incredible but Mule Creek Canyon is spectacular. It feels as if the river is saying, “Come on along with me, look at what I can do!” Truly, there is nothing like the experience of racing down Mule Creek. On the shore, I would say my favorite place is in one of the campsites with a bit of sand. The one I like best is where there is sand and a creek running right alongside.

Is there a sense of community on the Rogue?

Yes. It seems to be an almost undefinable feeling of oneness, openness, strength, and force. I come away feeling that more things are possible than previously thought.

How has the Rogue River shaped your life?

Before my first trip, I was petrified to be in a raft on a river – hey, I was afraid to be in a raft on a pond. After my first rapid, I was hooked. Not only the thrill of the rapid but the beauty and strength of the river. After my first trip, I have been much more open to myself and what I can do. It was a turning point because I conquered my fear and not only did something I was extremely frightened of but turned out loving it!

Does the Rogue River have a personality?

What comes to mind first is strength and then openness of the heart.

Any examples?

On my first trip, we camped at heart beach. I had both of my sons with me, which in and of itself was wonderful, but then the three of us spent time looking for heart rocks and talking about things that matter. I still have those rocks, as a matter of fact I can see them right now lined up on my window sill. Happiness!

Any last words?

The Rogue has everything: big rapids, small rapids, bears, otters, salmon, really friendly people, great scenery, stars at night, and no bars on your cell phone!

Katherine Luscher – Rogue River Journeys

Katherine Luscher is a guide for Rogue River Journeys. When she’s not running rivers, she spends her time protecting them with her work at the Waterkeeper Alliance. She’s been exploring the Rogue River canyon for 15 years and lives in Portland, Oregon.

The Interview

What is your connection to the Rogue River?

Rafting guide with Rogue River Journeys and I’m a recreational boater.

What do you do in the off-season?

I spend my off-river time working to protect and restore waterways across the globe. I started my career with River Network, and now work for Waterkeeper Alliance.

How long have you been working or recreating on the Rogue?

I’ve been spending time on the Rogue for the past 15 years.

What are your favorite qualities of the Rogue River?

The solitude. The diversity of wildlife. The 50 shades of green. The night skies. The rapids and swimming holes. The human history. The subtle changes as the seasons progress. Really – I love it all.

Favorite spot on the Rogue?

Taking a raft through Mule Creek Canyon is one my favorite things to share with guests. But, I really love finding time to quietly explore the side canyons: East Creek; Big Windy; Dulog; Mule Creek beyond the ‘swimming hole.’

Can you describe the community of people who visit or work on the Rogue?

Yes – it’s definitely an amazing, friendly community. I think most people who boat know that we’re all in-between wraps, and swims, and popping an oar; that we all – regardless of our experience – have the potential to be the one that forgets the coffee, the TP, the cooking oil. People look out for each other, and we help each other when we can.

Has the Rogue River changed you? How has it shaped your life?

Forget kindergarten – all I really need to know, I’ve learned from the river. The Rogue is a great teacher. She’s taught me to go with the flow; to appreciate every moment – even if that moment is rowing through Battle Bar Flats in the wind…with a boatload of kids who really enjoy swimming.

Spending time on the Rogue helps me keep the rest of my life’s priorities in-check. I’m living out of a bag (okay, and a cooler), and I’m happy. It sounds cliche, but the river reminds us that it’s not the stuff in our life that adds value to our lives – it’s the experiences and the people with whom you share them. The Rogue has given me amazing memories – not to mention a wonderful community of friends.

What is the personality of the Rogue River?

She’s welcoming, yet feisty; calm, yet diverse. She forces you to unplug, and yet makes sure you remain present. She demands respect, but is also forgiving.

People always ask me if I get tired of rafting the Rogue. But, the truth is: every trip is different. I’ve been down the river in the blazing sun of summer, the snow of late fall, and during the fire of 2013. [And then, there was that one time with the wind.] I’ve had a skunk run across my pillow, a black bear stand on my cooler, and a rattlesnake swim up through the drain-hole of a raft. I’ve had guests who started the trip terrified of the water – and ended the trip by paddling an inflatable kayak. I’ve taken my 83-year old dad, and I’ve taken kids as young as 5. There may be other rivers with bigger rapids; other rivers with higher canyon walls; other rivers far more remote – but there is just not another river like the Rogue. It really is a magical place, and I love sharing it with friends, family, and guests.

Scott Ogren – Portland, Oregon

Scott Ogren is the owner of Ogren Engineering based in Portland, Oregon. He is a member of the Oregon Whitewater Association and has organized numerous large group trips on the Rogue River. His first time in the Rogue River canyon was during a backpacking trip on the Rogue River trail in 1982. He’s been rafting the river since 2007.

The Interview

What is your connection to the Rogue River?

I am a recreational boater and have backpacked the Rogue River trail several times as well.

How long have you been working or recreating on the Rogue?

The first time I backpacked the Rogue River trail was in 1982 and the first time I boated the Rogue was in 2007.

What are your favorite qualities of the Rogue River?

It’s beautiful and unique. It is very rugged and isolated. The trees in the Wild and Scenic section of the Rogue River canyon are amazing and diverse to look at.

Favorite spot on the Rogue?

Downstream of Blossom Bar – that means I made it through!

Can you describe the community of people who visit or work on the Rogue?

I was once guiding a backpacking trip on the Rogue River trail and Court Boyce – the owner of Paradise Lodge – helped me tremendously with my group. The favor he did for me is another story entirely. The people on the river do create a community that is strong.

What is the personality of the Rogue River?

The Rogue has a personality all her own. She is unique and the fact that this river starts on one side of a mountain range and ends the other is testament to how unique of a river the Rogue is.

Kate Wollney – O.A.R.S. Rafting Trips

Kate Wollney is the Oregon Area Manager for O.A.R.S. She has been running the Rogue River since 1984 and has worked on a number of other rivers throughout the west.

The Interview

What is your connection to the Rogue River?

I am a river guide and Oregon Area Manager for O.A.R.S.

How long have you been recreating or working on the Rogue?

Recreating since 1984, working since 1993

What are your favorite qualities of the Rogue River?

I love the play: jumping off rocks, swimming in the river, scrambling up creeks.

Favorite spot on the Rogue?

Dulog Falls

Is there a sense of community on the Rogue?

There is a strong feeling of local use and local pride on the Rogue River. There is often a feeling that everyone out there is working (and playing) together.

How has the Rogue River shaped your life?

The Rogue motivated me to move across the country and defined my career. The Rogue created my sense of place and my love of nature.

Does the Rogue River have a personality?

The Rogue is easy-going with a serious side, and likes to laugh and have fun.

Any examples?

When I was 14, I hiked up Tate Creek for the first time. Before that, all my “adventure” had been on roller coasters. I was amazed and awed by nature’s playground. That day changed my life.

Any last words?

I feel lucky to call the Rogue River my home.

Jeff Kellogg – Clavey Paddlesports

Jeff Kellogg is an owner of Clavey Paddlesports, located in Petaluma, California. He has been floating the Rogue for over 25 years. In the late 80’s and early 90’s he worked as a guide and manager for Outdoor Adventures (Rogue River Journeys), a rafting company with an operation on the Rogue. Each year, he and his family make a trek to Southern Oregon to visit the Rogue. Clavey Paddlesports sells all things whitewater – rafts, frames, and accessories – as well as SUPs and sea kayaks.

The Interview

What is your connection to the Rogue River?

I first rafted the Rogue in 1982, and worked as a professional guide on the river for many years. I’ve managed to run the river at least one a year for the past 25 years or so (well, I might have missed a year). I met my wife Anne on the river, and our daughter was named after Rainie falls and first ran the river when she was 2 1/2.

Tell us about your line of work

I am one of the owners of Clavey Paddlesports, and we’ve supplied equipment to a variety of private boaters as well as outfitters.

What are your favorite qualities of the Rogue River?

It offers a little of everything; exciting whitewater, placid float time, awesome camping, hiking, and is rich in natural and human history.

If you were on the Rogue right now, where would you want to be?

Sipping some single malt scotch on the deck of Paradise Lodge.

What’s the community like on the Rogue?

It’s a great feeling floating the river and meeting old friends be they outfitters or fellow private boaters and lodge keepers.

Has the Rogue River changed you?

Certainly. The Rogue and many other rivers offers so much to bring me back again and again. It’s changed my life in the sense that I find I will organize my time off in order to get back on the river.

What is the personality of the Rogue River?

Wild/Gentle/Forgiving/Unforgiving/always welcoming. It’s like going home again every time. Even though you may cover the same ground every trip and even stay in some of the same camps, it’s never the same.

It’s been a place I’ve been able to visit consistently even through the changes in my life and it always welcomes me back. Our daughter first ran the river in utero. Then in diapers, and finally at the oars.

What would you tell someone who has yet to visit the Rogue?

Find a way to be there. Take your friends or family. You won’t regret it. You’ll be better for it.

Esa Morrison – Rogue River Journeys

Esa Morrison is a guide for Rogue River Journeys and Idaho River Journeys. She graduated from CSU Monterey Bay and grew up in Quincy, California. She is spending her off season in Bozeman, Montana and getting on the snow as much as possible.

The Interview

What is your connection to the Rogue River?

I am a river guide for Oregon River Journeys as well as a long time private boater.

How long have you been working or recreating on the Rogue?

Recreating for 15 years and working for four years.

What are your favorite qualities of the Rogue River?

The wildlife, the rock formations, and all the characters you meet floating.

Favorite spot on the Rogue?

Kelsey Creek Canyon

Is there a community of people who float the Rogue?

Yes. I think the private boaters have buddies who are able to pull off a Rogue trip most years as a tradition and/or reunion of sorts. As for the guides, it’s a fairly small river that offers a lot of us to gradually get to know each other through camp pick discussions, take out mayhem, and generally passing each other through long pools and pileups at the Rainie Falls and Blossom Bar. If you’re lucky, you get to kick back with each other at Paradise guide cabin. I think we all enjoy the low key feel the guide job on the Rogue has to offer and it makes for an easy going casual community.

Has the Rogue changed your life?

Yes, It’s what made me quit teaching and try to shoot for a longer river season. I’ve met some of my favorite people on on the Rogue, people whose life style I admired so much that I decided to reshape mine.

What is the personality of the Rogue River?

Easy going, with some fun excitement here and there.