Wind River Rafting
The Wind River originates from the southeastern foothills of Mt. Adams and flows into the Columbia River. The Wind River is located on the Washington side of the Columbia River and is about 90 minutes from the Portland/Vancouver area. The Columbia River Gorge offers a wide variety of camping and lodging accommodations.
The Wind River Trip
The Wind River Trip is only available from April through mid-May!
The Wind River is probably one of the most challenging and demanding
runs that can be commercially rafted in the northwest! The unique
Wind River gorge is one of the most beautiful, isolated and picturesque
places that we run! The journey down the Wind starts off mild but
after the first 1.5 miles, the bottom drops out! The trip then accelerates
into a mad rush to the Columbia, with the next three miles with nearly
continuous class IV+ and V rapids. The final few miles are a bit
easier, but it does contain many class IV and IV+ rapids. We stop
mid-way through the trip and serve a scrumptious and well-deserved
deli-style lunch. Although the run is only 8 miles, this run is
a very full day of paddling, portaging and teamwork! Our trips meet
at 9:00am in the morning and are completed usually by 2-3:00pm in the
afternoon.
The Wind River is definitely not for everyone. To raft the Wind River with River Drifters your entire party must be physically fit and have prior class IV rafting experience (and preferably with us)! The minimum age to raft the Wind River is 16. Since our main concern is not only your enjoyment, but safety plays a huge role on this run. River Drifters does reserve the right to re-schedule and/or cancel a trip due to unfavorable water levels or under qualified participants. Paddling class V whitewater is extremely fun but it is not for everyone!
What We Provide
River Drifters provides all the necessary gear to stay warm and comfortable on your adventure (wetsuits, booties, paddle jackets and helmets), all free! We also provide a well deserved lunch, midway through the trip. For a comprehensive list of things to bring for all weather, please see our Spring and Fall Trip List!
