Jim Crystal

My best friend Bill Narus introduced me to Eric Smith, who got me started guiding during my master’s program at SOU. As a coach and teacher, I respect and enjoy seeing guests take on the challenges of whitewater and be willing to try difficult things in beautiful places. OTT lets me guide a variety of wild and scenic rivers in different environments and in different types of boats. It’s never the same trip. Always a new adventure and a new challenge with amazing people.

• Hometown: Winston, Oregon
• Favorite rapid or stretch: Upper and Lower Island on the North Umpqua
• Favorite part of a trip: All of it
• Certifications: Wilderness First Responder, CPR and AED, Swiftwater Rescue Technician, Commercial Driver License, Trip Leader Certification

I grew up on the Rogue River and have been rafting since I was a kid. My favorite part about guiding is meeting people from all over the world, helping them create lasting memories, and spending every day outdoors.

• Hometown: Grants Pass, Oregon
• Favorite rapid or stretch: Mule Creek Canyon
• Favorite part of a trip: Paradise Lodge
• Certifications: CPR and AED

Born and raised in the Sierra Nevada mountains, I was grown up inspired by friends and family to seek out outdoor adventure. Thanks to them I found thrill in the snow, on trail, and even in the rivers. Being a guide on whitewater is one of my favorite ways to work, get outside, and meet people from all over. Before me, my older sister worked for Orange Torpedo Trips, and showed me a great community to become a part of.

• Hometown: Truckee, California
• Favorite rapid or stretch: Ti’lomik Falls (Powerhouse)
• Favorite part of a trip: Backflips off the boats
• Certifications: CPR and AED, Wilderness First Aid