White River

Designated Reach: October 28, 1988. From Mount Hood National Forest to the confluence with the Deschutes River.

Classification/Mileage: Scenic -- 24.3 miles; Recreational -- 22.5 miles; Total -- 46.8 miles.

This outstandingly scenic canyon, which begins at an alpine glacier and flows down to a desert environment, contains a variety of unique and diverse features. In its resource assessment, the river plan identified geology, hydrology, botany, habitat, historic resources, recreation, and scenery as being outstandingly remarkable values (ORVs). To qualify as an ORV, each value must be a unique, rare, or exemplary feature that is significant at a regional or national level.

Geology. The unique geological features include examples of recent volcanic activity, ghost forests, an active fumarole field, and glacial activity.

Hydrology. The river has unique hydrological features, such as its color in late summer and early fall and its isolation from other rivers. During the late summer and early fall, glacial outflow from Mount Hood turns the river milky white due to suspended sediment concentrations. It is hydrologically isolated from other river systems, which provides an environment where unique species can evolve.

Botany. Because of the diverse environments that White River flows through, as well as its isolation from other rivers, there are a wide variety of life zones within its corridor. Many sensitive and unique plant species are found only in this area, including a genetically unique race of redband.

Habitat. The wide variety of wildlife habitat conditions provide for much diversity along the river.

Historical Resources. A section of the historic Barlow Road, which is part of the Oregon Trail, passes through the river's corridor. This section of the road is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Recreation. White River offers outstanding opportunities for a wide variety of recreational activities, including nordic skiing, photography, camping, rugged hiking, and nature and wildlife observation.

Scenery. The scenic features include exceptional views of Mount Hood and many examples of landscape diversity.