“History” and “tradition” are words that have different meanings to different people. To us, at Helfrich River Outfitters, they are extremely important words because they represent much of what we stand for. The Helfrich name has been synonymous with river running since the mid 1920’s. Prince Helfrich, the founder of the Helfrich river expeditions, introduced a new breed of outdoor adventure vacations and was the pioneer of the commercial river running industry. In their small wooden boats, designed to be maneuverable on fast-running rivers, Prince and his adventurous pals and clients were the first to run many rivers in Oregon. Prince took the first commercial group down the Middle fork of the Salmon in 1940. Over seventy years, three generations and over one hundred thousand clients later, the Helfrich family is still upholding Prince’s tradition of offering the finest whitewater river running experiences. Today, we continue the commitment to excellent service and the safety of our guests. With state-of-the art equipment, delicious freshly-prepared meals, and a friendly experienced professional staff, we are able to provide river experiences that are second to none. The third and fourth generations continue to maintain the high standards begun so long ago. The rivers are a part of us and we have a great love of river running and the outdoors. Whether you’re looking for adventure, scenery, solitude or just plain fun, our trips offer it all. When it’s time for you to choose a guide service for your river running vacation, remember the Helfrich tradition of experience and quality. See you on the river!
Zane Grey (1872-1939) - original name Pearl Grey Prolific American writer and pioneer of Western as a new literary genre. Grey produced over sixty books, and almost as many have been published posthumously. In his works Grey presented the West as a moral battle ground, in which his characters are destroyed because of their unableness to change or redeemed through a final confrontation with their past. Grey's semioutlaw heroes were his most interesting creation, among them Lassiter in RIDERS OF THE PURPLE SAGE (1912), a gunman who has lost a girl he loved to a Mormon preacher, and Buck Duane, the agonized killer of LONE STAR RANGER (1915). Randolph Scott played a former outlaw in Fritz Lang's film Western Union (1941), based on Grey's novel. Grey's stories, set against the beautiful but harsh landscape of the West, have fascinated readers all over the world. "Slingerland hated the railroad, and he could not see as Neale did, or any of the engineers or builders. This old trapper had the vision of the Indian - that far-seeing eye cleared by distance and silence, and the force of the great, lonely hills. Progress was great, but nature unspoiled was greater. If a race could not breed all stronger men, through its great movements, it might better not breed any, for the bad over-multiplied the good, and so their needs magnified into greed. Slingerland saw many shiningbands of steel across the plains and mountains, many stations and hamlets and cities, a growing and marvelous prosperity from timber, mines, farms, and in the distant end - a gutted West." (from The Roaring U.P. Trail, 1918) Zane Grey was born in Zanesville, Ohio. His father was a farmer and preacher, and mother Quaker, of Danish background. Grey graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in dentistry in 1896, and practiced in New York City until 1904. During these years he started to write. Grey's first book, BETTY ZANE, was turned down by several published, and in 1904 Grey published it privately. The colorful frontier story was based on his ancestor's journal. After the book gained a critical success, Grey continued his family story in THE SPIRIT OF THE BORDER (1905). In his writing Grey was encouraged by his wife, Lina Elise Roth. They married in 1905. She supported his aspirations to become a professional writer. In 1908 Grey made a journey to the West with Colonel C.J. ('Buffalo') Jones, who told him tales of adventure on the plains. The trip was a turning point in Grey's career. He began writing Western novels in the tradition of Owen Wister and produced the first, THE LAST OF THE PLAINSMEN, in 1908. In 1912 the publishing company Harpers brought out Riders of the Purple Sage. It sold two million copies, was filmed three times, and became Grey's best-known western. It told the story of an enterprising woman, Jane Witherspoon, a rich Mormon. "Trouble between the Mormons and the Gentiles of the community would make her unhappy. She was Mormon-born, and she was a friend of to poor and unfortunate Gentiles. She wished only to go on doing good and being happy. And she thought of what that great ranch meant to her. She loved it all - the grove of cottonwoods, the old stone house, the amber-tinted water, and the droves of shaggy, dusty horses and mustangs, the sleek, clean-limbed, blooded racers, and the browsing herds of cattle and the lean, sun-browned riders of the sage." She finds protection for her ranch and herself from an mysterious hero, Lassiter, who hates Mormons for his own reasons. This formula, in which a tormented outlaw fights to protect the good and finds love, Grey used in many novels. JUDKINS: My name is Judkins. I don't know you, but I know... I've heard what you are... I heard you killed some men in the North. LASSITER: Not just in the North. (from the 1996 film Riders of the Purple Sage, dir. by Charles Haid) Much of Grey's knowledge of the West was based on research or trips in the regions he wrote about. He also interviewed authentic residents of the Wild West. In 1918 Grey moved to California, and lived there for the rest of his life. He built a large, Spanish-style house in Altadena, and continued to produce the usual 100 000 words each month. While not writing, Grey fished in the South Seas, or hunter along the Rogue River in Oregon, or spent time on Catalina Island. According to some sources, he fished up to 300 days of the year. In TALES OF SWORDFISH AND TUNA (1927) he tells that he had exceptionally good luck in locating schools of large tuna. Grey died on October 23, 1939, in Altadena. Grey's books dealt with settlers, cowboys, desperadoes, Indians, cattle drives, the advance of technology, family feuds, feuds between cattlemen and sheepherders, the bison hunting (The Thundering Herd), the defeat of the American Indian - all the aspects of West that later generations of writers and filmmakers utilized. Grey's style has been called antiquated, but it had much emotional power: "Memory stirred to the sight of the familiar corner. He had been in several bad gun fights in this town, and the scene of one of them lay before him. The warmth and intimacy of old pleasant associations suffered a chill." (from Sunset Pass, 1931) THE ROARING U.P. TRAIL (1918) has been criticized for it melodramatic plot but acknowledged for its reliable historical description about the building of the transcontinental railroad. THE VANISHING AMERICAN (1925), Grey's own favorite work, recycled the idea of the noble savage familiar from The Last of the Mohicans. The social commentary on the treatment of American Indians on the reservation included also a love theme between a red man and a white woman. George B. Seitz's film The Vanishing American (1925) from Grey's novel was melodramatic but dramatized the progression of American Indian life, and their hopeless situation in a way that no film previously had attempted. "Promises from the white establishment reek hypocrisy: "We will help you live as white men live. We will teach you to farm, to turn the desert into green fields." Yet the start of the twentieth century finds the Indians living meagerly on inadequate reservations." (from Great Hollywood Westerns by Ted Sennett, 1990) In such short stories as 'The Great Slave,' 'Yaqui, and 'Tigre' Grey showed his knowledge of Indian tribes and their history and the peon system of Mexican plantations. In 'Tappan's Burro,' a story of a wandering gold prospector and his faithful burro, Grey masterfully described the beauty of desert plains, barren mountain country, and forest land. "Madge's sombre eyes gazed out over the great void. But, full of thought and passion as they were, they did not see the beauty of that scene. But Tappan saw it. And in some strange sense the colour and wilderness and sublimity seemed the expression of a new state in his heart. Under him sheered down the ragged and cracked cliffs of the Rim, yellow and gold and grey, full of caves and crevices, ledges for eagles and niches for lions, a thousand feet down to the upward edge of the long green slopes and canyons, and so on down and down into the abyss of forested ravine and ridge, rolling league on league away to the encompassing barrier of purple mountain ranges." (from 'Tappan's Burro') Greys sold 17 million copies during his life time. His non-fiction includes several tales of fishing. Grey left a number of manuscripts for novels, of which several has been published, among others THE REEF GIRL in 1977. Hollywood have used his books eagerly, according to one estimation 100 Western films have been based on Grey's stories. In the 1930s lowbudget Zane Grey films were highly popular and profitable for Paramount. Grey also wrote two screenplays, THE VANISHING PIONEER and RANGLE RIVER. Paramount had used the Zane Grey name as a draw since the silent era. Wanderer of the Wasteland (1924), a silent film directed by Irvin Willat, was the first screen western shot entirely in color. Although Grey stories were low-budgeted, they were not meant only for juveniles. In the early phase of his career director, Henry Hathaway leant on Grey's stories and the actor Randolph Scott in several films. By 1935 they both were on their way to bigger productions. Heritage of the Desert (1932) was his first starring role. Wild Horse Mesa (1932) was a tale of wild horse taming. Scott stops Fred Kohler who uses barbed wire to catch wild stallions. Under the Tonto Rim (1933) depicted a slow-witted cowboy who wins his manhood and the boss's daughter. In the romantic Western Man of the Forest (1933) Scott's pet lion helps him to escape from jail. To the Last Man (1933) was a story of a family feud healed by young love. Scott was austere and Shirley Temple made her debut. There is also a 'tastefully photographed' nude swimming sequence. The Thundering Herd (1933) was one of the best of Paramount's Zane Grey quickies. The story dealt with buffalo hunters and marauding Indians. Footage from William K. Howard's film from 1925 was used in the scene of the stampede of wagons across a frozen lake. The Last Round-Up (1934) starring Randolph Scott, was based on Zane Gray's novel THE BORDER LEGION. It told a story about a gang of rustlers and their boss who sacrifices his life for two young lovers. Stock footage from the silent version and Border Legion (1930) were used in the film. Fritz Lang's Western Union (1941) was beautifully photographed by Edward Cronjager. For further reading: Zane Grey: A Biography by Frank Gruber (1969); Zane Grey by C. Jackson (1973); Zane Grey by A. Ronald (1975); Zane Grey by Carol Gay (1979); Zane Grey's Arizona by Candace C. Kant (1984); Zane Grey: A Photographic Odyssey by L. Grey (1985); Zane Grey, A Documented Portrait by G.M. Farley (1985); Selling the Wild West by Christine Bold (1987); West of Everything by Jane Tompkins (1992) - Other films (not listed below) based of Zane Grey's stories: Arizona Mahoney, 1936 (based on 'Stairs of Sand'); The Dude Ranger, 1934; The Yukon Patrol, 1942, dir. by William Withey (based on King of the Royal Mounted) - Trivia: Colonel Potter of the television series M*A*S*H frequently noted that his favorite writer was Zane Grey. - Other classic western writers: Louis L´Amour, Owen Wister, Frederick Marryat .
The magic of the Middle Fork has no equal. The excitement of the whitewater, the breathtaking scenery, beautiful campsites, hot springs, hiking, abundant wildlife and fabulous fishing make this river trip unique. The crystal clear Middle Fork flows one hundred miles through the stunning “River of No Return” wilderness. Thrilling whitewater alternates with placid emerald green pools as you descend nearly 3,000 feet through forests of fir, spruce and ponderosa pine, ultimately entering Impassable Canyon with walls towering 1,000 feet overhead. The geology and history of this special place are as unique as its beauty. Pre-batholithic rock dating over 100 million years and human artifacts dating over 8,000 years have been found. Our guides provide commentary to give you an appreciation of the river’s complex past, pointing out Native American pictographs decorating canyon walls and significant settings where events changed history. Designated a wild and scenic river in 1968 and a catch and release stream in 1973, the translucent waters of the Middle Fork are teeming withwilling cutthroat and rainbow trout. With a trout population of over 2500 fish per mile, the river is a fly fishing paradise. Fishing from maneuverable driftboats allows easy access to many fishing areas. Our guides are excellent boatmen and skilled fishermen who will enhance your fishing experience with expert instruction. Most trips combine rafting and fishing with guests rotating between rafts and driftboats. This option allows everyone to fish fifty percent of the float time. Our rafts are top quality with custom-designed frames for a comfortable and relaxing ride. Inflatable kayaks are also available. For serious fishermen, who prefer to fish the entire trip, we offer an exclusive driftboat-only option. Deluxe riverside camps feature all the amenities: outdoor cooking at its finest, fresh fruits and vegetables, complete camp setup, toilet, hot shower and washing facilities. Pontoon boats are used to carry equipment to the next camp leaving our rafts and driftboats uncluttered. Join us on the magical Middle Fork for an unparalleled flyfishing experience.
One of Oregon’s most spectacular river experiences is another of the rivers aptly categorized as “Wild and Scenic” - the unforgettable Rogue River. Legendary for its combination of dramatic rapids and tranquil pools, fishing on the Rogue has been popular with guests of the Helfrich family since 1931 when Prince Helfrich first explored the canyon. His legacy continues as newcomers enjoy the same majestic old-growth forests of Douglas Fir and the river bank’s twisted madrone. Picturesque grassy pastures, wildflowers and wildlife are all part of this unspoiled wilderness. Deer, otter, black bear, blue herons, osprey and bald eagles call this paradise home. And then, there are the fish! With two fishermen and one guide in each driftboat, you’ll have a unique opportunity to catch fall run steelhead and salmon on lures and flies. Even the most experienced fishermen will be challenged by the great sport of landing these fighters on light tackle. In this world-class fishing river, our guides demonstrate daily that they are not only skilled fishermen, but skilled boatmen. Their knowledge of the river and the easy maneuverability of the driftboats allows them to easily access the placid pools and rich holes where the fishing is best. Our trips begin at Argo Riffle and for three days and 36 miles we will travel west in McKenzie River driftboats through the Coast Range to Foster Bar near Agness. You’ll get a firsthand look at Rainie Falls, Zane Grey’s cabin, Coffee Pot Canyon and Blossom Bar Rapids. Nights are spent in comfortable wilderness lodges with private sleeping accommodations for couples or singles. Breakfasts and dinners are hearty family-style meals served by lodge staff. Each lodge offers its own distinct character which adds a memorable element to the trip. Shore lunch stops along the river allow time to relax and explore the area. We often barbecue or pan-fry any freshly- caught steelhead or salmon. Delicious! No one goes away hungry. The combination of unforgettable fishing experiences and driftboating through exciting whitewater make this outing on the Rogue more than just a fishing trip, it becomes an extraordinary adventure.
The Salmon River in Idaho is the largest free-flowing river in the lower 48 states. Our trip takes us through the deepest river gorge in North America and traverses 73 miles and three states. We wind 55 miles through the rugged Lower Salmon River Gorge to join the Snake River in Hells Canyon. Our driftboat guides competently navigate “The Slide,” “Eye of the Needle” and “Bodacious Bounce” - whitewater rapids that characterize the wilder side of the Lower Salmon. From the confluence of these two majestic rivers – the Salmon and the Snake, we float the last 18 miles of our journey to take-out. Each day, our camp gear and luggage are taken ahead where camps are completely set up before our guests arrive late in the day. Tents and sleeping pads are provided, as well as a portable toilet, hot shower and washing facility. Dining tables and chairs are set up for meals and our guides double as chefs. They are as skillful using a Dutch oven and barbecue as they are in a driftboat. The meals are varied and delicious with fresh fruit and vegetables regularly available. The camaraderie between our guests and the guides that develops during these five days enhances this trip immeasurably. FAMILY RAFTING The 70 to 75 degree summer water temperatures of the Lower Main Salmon make this family rafting trip especially popular. It would seem obvious that a rafting trip would be water-oriented, but the swimming, water games and beautiful long sand beaches incomparably enrich the Lower Main Salmon’s rafting experience. Our family trips offer exciting whitewater with rollercoaster-like rapids as well as long flat stretches and gentle rapids over the course of the 73 river miles that are traveled. Our guests may choose to travel in a paddle raft, an oar-powered raft or navigate an individual inflatable kayak. In this way, everyone gets a variety of rafting experiences. The level of adventure is up to each guest. Spacious and comfortable campsites are set up on pristine beaches and camp gear and luggage are sent on ahead each day. When guests arrive, the tents are already set up. Sleeping pads are provided as is a portable toilet and a washing facility. There is time to relax, swim, play volleyball, and enjoy the company of those you are with. All meals are prepared by our guides who bake in large Dutch ovens and barbecue over open coals. River menus feature western fare and provide a variety of meats, fresh breads, fruits and vegetables. Ice, soft drinks and fresh drinking water is (are?) always available. The Lower Salmon is an ideal venue for a family trip. For so many people whose everyday lives are spent indoors, this is an opportunity to experience the “great outdoors” and share an adventure. Our experienced guides are dedicated to helping each family take full advantage of this journey. FALL FISHING AND BIRD HUNTING Our fall fishing and bird hunting trips on the Lower Main can definitely be described as action-packed. We break camp and start fishing early and the fishing for smallmouth bass, trout and steelhead is consistently spectacular. With two fishermen in each driftboat, our guides proficiently and safely move through whitewater and into quality fishing spots. Each guide is an expert fisherman and can provide both instruction and equipment for fly fishing. Bird hunting adds an additional dimension to this fishing trip. Good populations of chukar and Hungarian partridge inhabit the area. While the chukar habitat can be rugged, driftboats provide ready access to the terrain. Watching and listening for chukars and partridge as we float allows us to maximize the potential for a successful hunt. These fast-flying birds provide the ultimate challenge to upland bird hunters. Often termed “cast and blast,” our combination fall fishing and bird hunting excursions provide not just variety, but an excellent opportunity to engage in two of your favorite pastimes during the same trip.
There is no better view of Oregon than from the world famous McKenzie river. These one-day float trips combine top-notch fly fishing with great scenery from late March through October. Fishing is for rainbow and cutthroat trout and is suitable for all ages and for any skill level from beginner to veteran. Many of our regular anglers are world traveled, but make a special trip to the McKenzie every year. The McKenzie begins at Clear Lake, formed some 3,000 years ago when lava from nearby Sand Mountain dammed up a free–flowing stream. The lake is so crystalline that you can paddle out, look down, and see, rising up from 175 feet below, a ghostly forest of preserved trees. From here, the river tumbles down the steep mountain through fern–lush rapids and over two thunderous waterfalls. And then, as if by magic, it disappears into the fractures of another lava field, resurfacing three miles downhill in a luminous turquoise pool. As the river rolls on, patches of churning white water interrupt long placid stretches where reflections of the banks on the gently rippling surface recall impressionist paintings. Its many moods make the river a perfect playground for vacationers. There are several excellent lodges along the river, and an excellent golf course, Tokatee, is nearby. Many of our out-of-town anglers combine several days of fishing with some golf. McKenzie trips are a great way to entertain family, friends and business associates. Party sizes of two to twelve anglers can be arranged, and you can fish for one day, or fish several sections of river over several days. All you need to bring is a lunch and a license.