WIND RIVER RAFTING
Class V Whitewater Paddling
DIFFICULTY LEVEL

Experience Required
BEST TIME TO GO

April-May
DRIVE TIME

Portland = 1 hr
Bend = 3 hrs
Seattle = 3 hr 20 mins
To raft the Wind River with River Drifters your entire party must be physically fit and have prior class IV rafting experience with us!
The minimum age to raft the Wind River is 16. Our primary concern is your enjoyment as well as safety which plays a huge role on this particular river run.
We reserve the right to reschedule 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!
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 River, 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 III+ and IV rapids. We stop mid-way through the trip and serve a well-deserved deli-style lunch. Although the run is only 8 miles, this run is a very fun day of paddling, portaging and teamwork!
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 River, 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 III+ and IV rapids. We stop mid-way through the trip and serve a well-deserved deli-style lunch. Although the run is only 8 miles, this run is a very fun day of paddling, portaging, and teamwork!
The weather in Washington in the Spring can be extreme and change quickly. Be prepared for sun, rain, wind and even snow.
- A pair of quick-drying shorts and t-shirt (wool or synthetic are best. Do NOT wear cotton), or a bathing suit to wear under a wetsuit.
- Long-sleeved synthetic shirt or fleece (NO cotton) for extra warmth when outdoor temperatures are colder than 80°F.
- Waterproof sunscreen and chapstick
- Hat for sun protection
- Old pair of tennis shoes, neoprene booties with soles or sandals (closed-toed, such as Keen, are recommended).
- Sunglasses and/or prescription eyeglasses or contacts.
- Sunglass strap for both sunglasses and prescription eyeglasses (we sell these in our shop).
- Change of clothes for drive home.
- OPTIONAL Items
- Bike gloves to protect hands while paddling.
- Waterproof camera
- Small daypack
- Personal snacks
- Personal medications
- Personal water bottle
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Visit our Gorge Lodging Recommendations page
Camping
- Peterson Prairie Campground: 8 miles west of Trout Lake via Highway 141. This campground does take reservations for both individual and group sites by calling (800) 280-2267. Travel Time to Meeting Spot: 45 minutes.
- Panther Creek Campground: Very Close camping to the Wind River, great place, and travel to meeting spot is 10 minutes.
- Home Valley Campground: The closest campground to the Wind River and a short drive to the White Salmon as well. This is a very nice camping area with shade, beach access, and a wonderful location
- Everybody’s, White Salmon, WA
- Full Sail, Hood River, OR
- Double Mountain Brewery + Pizza, Hood River, OR
- PFriem, Hood River, OR
Please feel free to contact our office at 1-800-972-0430. Once on the river, our experienced and knowledgeable guides will be happy to answer any questions you have. We welcome suggestions about how we can make your next experience on the river an even better one!
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Premier Pacific Northwest class V whitewater paddling in a pristine canyon.
An outdoor enthusiasts dream location for hiking, biking, skiing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding.
Proximity to the resort town of Hood River, Oregon with world-class adventure sports, breweries, and restaurants.
Wind River Rafting Trips ….
Wind River 3/4 Day
Season: April - May *depending on water levels*
Duration: 3/4 Day
Length: 6 -11 miles
Price: $130
Rapids: IV-V
Skill Level: Experience required
Age Minimum: 16
Are you ready for your rafting adventure on the Wind River?
CALL TODAY! 800.972.0430