Roaring River (Clackamas River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Roaring River |
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 Location of the mouth of the Roaring River in Oregon
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| Country | United States |
| State | Oregon |
| County | Clackamas County |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | near Signal Buttes Cascade Range, Roaring River Wilderness, Mount Hood National Forest 4,391 ft (1,338 m) 45°09′40″N 121°55′36″W / 45.16111°N 121.92667°W |
| River mouth | Clackamas River 955 ft (291 m) 45°09′29″N 122°07′02″W / 45.15806°N 122.11722°W |
| Length | 13.7 mi (22.0 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 44 sq mi (110 km2) |
| Type: | Wild, Recreational |
| Designated: | October 28, 1988 |
The Roaring River is a river in Oregon, United States. It is about 13.7-mile (22.0 km) long and flows into the Clackamas River. The river starts near Signal Buttes in the Cascade Range. It flows west through parts of Mount Hood National Forest.
The Roaring River's water area is mostly within the Roaring River Wilderness. This is a special protected area of 36,500-acre (14,800 ha). It was created in 2009 to protect nature. In this area, commercial logging (cutting down trees for money) and using machines for fun are not allowed. However, people can still enjoy fishing, camping, hunting, and hiking there.
In 1988, the entire Roaring River became part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. This means it is protected for its natural beauty. Most of the river is called "wild," meaning it is very natural. A small part, about two-tenths of a mile, is called "recreational," meaning it is easier for people to visit and enjoy.
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Where Does the Roaring River Flow?
The Roaring River starts high up in the mountains. It then flows downhill towards the Clackamas River. Along its path, other smaller streams join it. These smaller streams are called tributaries.
Roaring River's Tributaries
As the Roaring River flows, several smaller creeks join it. These creeks are listed in order from the river's start to its end:
- Cougar Creek and Splintercat Creek join from the left side.
- Plaza Creek and Squaw Creek join from the right side.
- Shining Creek, South Fork Roaring River, and Grouse Creek also join from the left side.
The South Fork Roaring River is also part of the Wild and Scenic Rivers System. This means it is also protected for its natural beauty.
Fun Activities on the Roaring River
The Roaring River offers exciting activities for people who love the outdoors.
Whitewater Rafting and Kayaking
Some people enjoy whitewater activities on the lower part of the river. This means they go rafting or kayaking on the fast-moving water. They usually start about 3.2 miles (5.1 km) upstream. To get there, they use forest roads and a hiking trail. They finish their trip at a bridge where Oregon Route 224 crosses the river. This bridge is near the Roaring River Campground.
This part of the river is rated Class IV. This means it is considered "advanced" on the International Scale of River Difficulty. It has challenges like ledges, large rocks, and moving wood. Because of these dangers, people often need to look ahead to plan their path. They may also need to carry their boats around certain spots.
