Boxcar Rapids, Class III rapids on Deschutes River, Oregon
Boxcar Rapids is a whitewater section on the Deschutes River where powerful currents push across roughly 75 feet of riverbed, with a distinct ledge dropping away on the left side. Water flows over submerged rock formations in the middle, creating technical obstacles for boats navigating through.
In January 1954, Engine No. 857 from the Spokane, Portland and Seattle Railway derailed near this location and plunged into the river along with a boxcar. This accident left an indelible mark on local history and became a defining moment for the area.
This section of the Deschutes has long served as a gathering place for indigenous peoples who relied on its resources for food and survival. Visitors today encounter layers of that ancestral connection woven into the landscape.
Guided rafting trips run from spring through fall, with experienced guides requiring all participants to wear protective gear and attend a safety briefing beforehand. Water conditions shift throughout the year based on river flow, so planning your visit around seasonal water levels is helpful.
The name Boxcar comes directly from the 1954 train derailment when a loaded freight car plunged into the water. Pieces of metal wreckage reportedly remain visible on the riverbed today, giving the rapids an unexpected industrial backstory.
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