Navigating Adventure: Top Whitewater Companies in Washington’s Columbia Gorge

WET PLANET

In 1999, co-founders Todd Collins and Jaco Klinkenberg began discussing their vision for the ultimate whitewater company–today, Wet Planet has grown into a team of professionals providing guided river trips and instruction throughout Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.

The first Columbia Gorge whitewater operator to obtain the Green Business Benchmark Sustainability Certification, Wet Planet places emphasis on conducting their business in a responsible manner with a commitment toward our environment. They also take pride in supporting the local community by sourcing a variety of products and gear from nearby businesses–from the espresso beans served at the cafè to the boat and paddle manufacturers.

Offering rafting day-trips and multi-day adventures, kayaking courses and professional training, Wet Planet is a vastly talented group of individuals who have come together to share a passion for whitewater and river travel, and combined, have commercial whitewater rafting and kayaking experience in eight countries and do it all in five different languages!
wetplanetwhitewater.com

ZOLLER

The Zoller family began their journey in 1973, and may be the longest-running family rafting business in the Pacific Northwest!

Now,three generations strong, along with a spectacular staff of over 30, they are raising the fourth generation on the river!
The original guided whitewater rafting outfitters of Washington’s White Salmon river, there are trips for all adventure levels on the White Salmon and Klickitat rivers!

Using custom designed rafts, Zoller’s allows you to choose the type of whitewater experience you want–whether it’s the highest adventure level, the longest possible river run or just plain old family fun for you and the kids!

There are private launch facilities, which means you won’t be waiting in line to get on the river–when you park your car, your raft will be sitting in the river less than 200 feet away, ready for you to hop in and go!
zooraft.com

RIVER DRIFTERS

River Drifters has been a locally owned and family-run outfitter here in the Gorge since 1979. Many of the guides have been working with the company for decades, have a passion for the rivers and guiding, and take risk management very seriously. They are accomplished in their outdoor skills, trained in first aid, CPR and river rescue and are knowledgeable about the natural and cultural history of the area.

The company uses only high-quality rafts and inflatable kayaks. The river of choice, water flow and group size, will dictate the type of raft used for each trip. The majority of the time, paddle rafts are used that carry up to eight people and one guide. Trip sizes are limited to ensure guests have a safe and comfortable experience.

You can choose your adventure–from family rafting or camping trips to adventurous whitewater excursions–they offer a wide variety of rafting trips at competitive, affordable prices, with group deals and family discounts for ages 14 and under.

River Drifters operates on the White Salmon, the Klickitat, and the Wind River.
riverdrifters.net

COLUMBIA RIVER OUTDOORS

The newest whitewater rafting outfitter in Washington is owned and operated by Sean Woody and Max Sisson who share a passion for Pacific Northwest whitewater.

Specializing in private and custom trips, the company uses high quality equipment and transportation with “the newest gear on the river”.

The mission statement for the Columbia River crew is to provide an exceptional experience, while educating to promote protection of the places they explore, teaching others how to adventure safely and ethically.
columbiariveroutdoors.com