I would describe this as the perfect family trip led by exceptional guides. We had three generations, the youngest participant being 6, the oldest 86, and ICO delivered a well-rounded adventure that we'll all remember for the rest of our lives. The guides orchestrated an experience that gave us the time and space to bond in a way we couldn't have without them.
Starting out, all covid-era precautions were well in place and the guides maintained all practices throughout the trip. We've been all very cautious, and the guides provided a safe experience in that aspect and never let down their guard. Again, we had grandpa (86), so that was important. He was able to have his own space, shuttle his own vehicle, etc., so we felt good about having him.
And onto the food: Each meal was well planned and thought-out. We had a few diet restrictions, including folks who can't eat dairy or wheat or gluten. They were covered throughout the trip, and the rest of us didn't suffer for it. We enjoyed hearty breakfasts, healthy lunches, and amazing dinners. Salmon. Steak. Pasta. Biscuits & Gravy. Salads to die for. Five star lunch spreads. Desserts baked on the shores of the Rogue. That's kind of the gist of it.
And it was all served on point and on time to help keep the trip on schedule. I'm a morning-guy, and each day coffee was ready early and on time so I could sit by the river for my first cup, and enjoy my second and third with family as we caught up on life. It was our first time all together in I can't remember how long.
Moving onto the rafting: We all got the chance to do what we wanted. Grandpa got to paddle an inflatable kayak down exciting rapids, which is something he said was on his bucket list. The kids got to paddle kayaks too, and we watched each of them grow confidence as they navigated the splashing waves of the wild Rogue. With sports and other similar activities on hiatus for now, this provided an element of enrichment we were not expecting but gladly accepted!
And, finally, the exceptional service. I traffic in this world of outdoor adventure and I can say these guides are pros. The trip leader, Jill, took extra time to make the experience fun and safe for the kids. She gave us the direction we needed and the flexibility we desired.
We enjoyed campfire music with guide TJ, history lessons with Daniel, and inspiration from guide Adler who quietly rowed a massive boat full of our gear and had camp setup before we arrived.
This culminated in a shared experience that we all knew we were longing for, but didn't realize just how bad. An hour before takeout, after indulging in a fresh chicken salad, guide Jill took the initiative to share in a moment of reflection through a round robin of highlights.
Voices got shaky as we all expressed the trip's highlights. We got three generations together on a covid-safe adventure that lifted all our spirits. Adventure was had. Experiences were shared. Legacy renewed. Tears were shed, and like I said, this is a trip we will all remember for the rest of our lives.
Thank you ICO.
P.S. Trip advisor asks to break down "Who was with you." We chose family because it includes young children, but we had the full suite of family. In-laws who don't know each other all that well. Immediate families, grandparents, etc.