Noah's

Asked to name their favorite river guide, Readers' Choice voters named an entire company with three decades' experience in Southern Oregon. Ashland-based Noah's Rafting and Fishing Trips took first bidding in this new Readers' Choice category.

Founded in 1974 by longtime river guide Noah Hague, Noah's is situated in "the perfect spot" for a trip on either the Rogue or Klamath, said co-owner Bart Baldwin.

"We can go north and hit the Rogue and go east or south and hit the Klamath. We're right in between. Most people in the valley have no idea about the Klamath runs "¦ but it's some of the best whitewater in the country."

Baldwin said the rafting shop's consistency and well-trained guides, for trips lasting a few hours or a few days, likely earned Noah's this year's title for best rafting company.

Other favorites: Alyssa Warren, O'Brien, Rogue River Outfitters; Dan Stumpff