My family of six (mom, dad, and four kids ages 11, 9 and twins that are 6) are exploring southern Oregon this summer and I would like to take one of the Rogue River jetboat trips. I am wondering if there is a significant difference between the trips that depart Grants Pass (to Hellgate Canyon) and the trips that depart Gold Beach? Thanks for your help.

I have only been on those that depart from Gold Beach. I have done the long trip with Jerry's twice. I have enjoyed it very much both times. I do always recommend the long trip as it gets much more exciting where the others turn around. I think the kids would love it. It is pretty and exciting, plan to get wet.

If you are limited on time probably driving to the coast off I5 isn't worth the difference between the rides but if you are planning to visit the coast (which I highly recommend) then I certainly feel confident endorsing Jerry's trips.

Have a great trip!
Sara

I have done both trips, and would have to say that the trip from Gold Beach is probably better just because I think the lower part of the Rogue River is so beautiful. However, I agree with Sara, if you were not planning on going to the coast it would not be worth driving there just for that. The Hellgate Canyon one is also a good trip and would be mucch closer if staying in the Rogue Valley.

Here's a strong vote for going to Gold Beach and taking the jet boat. The kids will remember it forever. And going over to the coast from the freeway is not that big a deal if you understand that the roads are twisty-turny and you won't be driving 60 mph.

I have also done both and the Gold Beach ones stand out much more in my memory. It seems like the scenery was better and the drivers made it a better expereince in Gold Beach. I have done the Mail Boats (not Jerry's) in Gold Beach twice. If you have time, do the longest trip, 104 miles.

If you are not planning on going to the coast, then definitely do the Grants Pass jetboat, they are good, just not as good as Gold Beach.

Have fun!

We have done the Hellgate Excursions from Grant's Pass several times. It would be fun to do the dinner or brunch trip. If you remember The River Wild with Meryl Streep, it was filmed back in the canyon there. ***kim***

Many thanks to those who gave guidance. We will be on the Oregon coast anyway, so the Gold Beach jet boat tour looks like the better option. Thanks again.

In Gold Beach we took the trip with the Mail Boats www.mailboat.com and it was great! We had a great driver who did wild things on the way back from lunch. Be ready to get wet!

stay in Bandon while doing the jet boats about 45 minutes away and more to do. a greta place to stay www.bandonbeachrentals.com