WIND RIVER RAFTING

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 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!

Our trips meet at 9:30am at the Old Hatchery Road Boat Ramp, Stevenson, WA and are completed usually by 2-3pm in the afternoon.

The age minimum for this trip is 16 years old. The physical and mental criteria for eligibility to participate on any River Drifters river trip can be found on our Eligibility Criteria page.

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!

Our guides are accomplished in outdoor skills, trained in first aid, CPR and river rescue, and knowledgeable about the natural and cultural history of the area. They are fun, interesting folks who have a passion for rivers and people. If you have questions about rafting, camping, cooking in the outdoors or anything else, ask and they will likely be happy to help.

The weather in Washington in the Spring can be extreme and change quickly. Be prepared for sun, rain, wind and even snow.

River Drifters provides all the necessary gear so that you stay warm and comfortable during your adventure (wetsuits, paddle jackets and helmets).

• 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

Our guides work very hard throughout the season to ensure that guests have an enjoyable trip. As such, tips are very much appreciated by our guides. Tips normally range from 10% of the trip cost. How much you tip should depend on your satisfaction with your trip and your financial means. Most people tip the lead guide, who will split the money equally among the crew.

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 Wind River trips are appropriate for kids age 16 and older.

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!