A river on a map is no longer just a blue line winding through the landscape. It becomes a possibility.

Maybe it’s a stretch of water you’ve driven past a hundred times. Maybe it’s a canyon you’ve hiked into and wondered what it would be like to see from the river. Maybe it’s a river you’ve heard your friends talk about for years. Or maybe it’s a place you’ve never heard of at all.

Once you learn to row, all of those rivers start to look a little different.

It Starts With a Saturday

At first, it might be simple.

A Saturday morning. A few friends. A raft on a trailer.

You load the boat, throw in the oars, pack a cooler, and head toward the river. You spend the day moving downstream, learning to read the current, finding your line, laughing with your friends, and figuring out what your boat can do.

Then, at the end of the day, you pull off the river tired, happy, and already talking about where you’re going next.

That’s one of the great things about learning to row. You don’t need to wait for the perfect trip or a week of vacation. A river can turn an ordinary weekend into an adventure.

And once you know how to get a boat down the river, your options start to multiply.

The West Opens Up

The West is crisscrossed by rivers.

They run through deep desert canyons, dense forests, high mountain valleys, volcanic landscapes, and enormous stretches of wilderness. Some are famous. Others are barely more than a line on a map.

Rivers are some of the oldest pathways through this landscape. They cut through places that roads never reach and connect landscapes that can feel impossibly remote.

For a rower, those rivers become accessible in a completely different way.

You don’t have to stand on the shore and look into the canyon.

You can travel through it.

You can spend a day on the water and be home that night. Or you can pack everything you need into a boat and disappear downstream for several days.

That’s when rowing starts to become something more than a skill.

It becomes a way to explore.

Then the Road Ends

A multi-day river trip changes the equation.

After the first few hours, the road disappears behind you. Your boat becomes your transportation, your gear truck, your kitchen, and the place that carries you toward whatever is around the next bend.

You wake up beside the river. You pack the boats. You push off from camp and spend the day moving downstream.

Maybe the river is quiet and the canyon walls tower above you. Maybe the water picks up and everyone starts paying closer attention. Maybe you stop for a hike, explore a side canyon, or find a beach that becomes home for the night.

Eventually, you pull over, unload the boats, make dinner, and sit around a fire with your friends.

The next morning, you do it again.

There is something wonderfully simple about that rhythm.

Wake up. Pack the boats. Follow the river.

And the Map Gets Bigger

One river leads to another.

A local day trip becomes a weekend. A weekend becomes a multi-day trip. A trip with friends leads to an invitation from someone you’ve never boated with before. Eventually, you find yourself planning vacations around rivers you’ve only seen on a map.

The Main Salmon.

The Middle Fork.

The Grand Canyon.

The Rogue.

The Owyhee.

The Deschutes.

And countless other rivers stretching across the West.

Each one offers something different. Different landscapes. Different challenges. Different ways to travel through the country.

And the farther you go, the more you realize that rowing isn’t just about getting a raft downstream.

It’s about having the ability to go somewhere.

You Become Part of the Trip

There is also a difference between being on a river and being responsible for a boat on the river.

As a rower, you have a role.

You read the water. You make decisions. You communicate with the people around you. You help your group move down the river. You contribute to camp. You learn from the people who have been there before you.

And eventually, you become one of those people.

Someone newer to rowing joins your trip. You show them how you rig their boat. You point out a line you’ve learned. You help them understand the river.

The community grows.

That’s one of the things we love most about rowing. The skill doesn’t just give you more places to go. It gives you more people to go with.

And somewhere along the way, you realize you’re no longer just tagging along on someone else’s adventure.

You’re helping create it.

That’s where rowing can take you.

See you on the river,

The Wet Planet Whitewater Crew

Author: Steve Merrow

Steve is the River Manager for Wet Planet, leading our day-trip operations, and rowing clinics, on the White Salmon, Hood, Wind and Klickitat Rivers.   

The post Where Rowing Can Take You appeared first on Wet Planet Whitewater.

While we run trips throughout the spring season, targeting the earliest launch dates gives you the best chance at high-water flows. Because the river is fed by high-desert snowpack, early spring trips typically provide the most volume that lends to creating an incredible ride through the canyon.

The Canyon Experience

Whitewater rafting on the Owyhee River takes you deep into an isolated wilderness with no roads or cell service. Days are spent running desert rapids, floating through quiet reflective pools, and taking in 1,000-foot basalt walls. The river canyon offers an array of unique experiences and fun activities in addition to the beautiful and fun whitewater we travel through each day.

Side Hikes & Hot Springs

We pull the rafts over to hike narrow slot canyons, scout ridge tops with expansive desert views, and soak in natural riverside hot springs near camp.

Wildlife Watching

Spring brings active wildlife to the canyon corridor. It’s common to spot bighorn sheep on the steep cliff faces, golden eagles, and falcons on the thermal updrafts, along with river otters along the banks.

Desert Camps

Nights belong to sandy riverbanks, warm camp meals, and stargazing under desert skies. Campsites on the Owyhee river stretch are remote, private, and provide ample space for exploring and enjoying the true peace of the desert wilderness.

Get on the Owyhee River!

Ready to find out for yourself what the true beauty the Owyhee River offers? Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique and incredible river stretch. 5 days of making memories with friends and family that you will talk about for a lifetime.

2027 Owyhee River 5-Day Rafting Trip Launch Dates:

• April 6 (4-day Rowing School as part of our 8-day Rowing & Paddling Guide School)
• April 13 – 17 (Best bet for higher water)
• April 20-24
• April 27 – May 1
• May 4 – 8
• May 11 – 15

Wondering about what kind of food we serve on our Owyhee trips? You’ll be amazed. It’s not ‘dried camp food’. Check out a previous post about what type of food you get to enjoy on our multi-day trips!

Check out the full itinerary and reserve your spot on the river below. Maximum group size is 15, so dates fill up fast.

We hope to share a stretch of canyon with you this spring,

The Wet Planet Whitewater Crew

The post Early Spring Flows on the Owyhee River: Enjoy the Oregon Desert at its Peak appeared first on Wet Planet Whitewater.

To be outside, get outside. Detach from the stressors of everyday life. Live in the moment. Be in the moment. Capture the moment. For me, this was the point of the multi-day rafting trip. That was the objective of my “plein air” paintings from six days with Wet Planet on the Main Salmon River in Idaho.

Plein air painting:  The act of painting outdoors with the artist’s subject in direct view.

There is something different about a multi-day trip, immersing yourself in the outdoors, whether you’re hiking, rafting, sailing, canoeing, etc. A multi-day trip takes you out of the fast-paced life that many of us lead. It puts us in the slower, rhythmic elements of the outdoors, surrounded by natural landscape. Falling asleep when the sun sets and waking up when the sun rises. They say it takes three days for your body to adjust to being in the wilderness. Three days for your system to recalibrate.

In my experience, after day three of a multi-day river adventure or a backpacking trip, it really feels like your body starts to fall into rhythm with the trip. The group is starting to understand the roles they play. It starts to feel like things are slowing down and you can see the big picture.

Florence Williams, author of The 3-Day Effect, states:

“As our sensory brains slowly come to life outside over three days, we start to see and hear things we didn’t notice before. We become entranced by a state of “soft fascination” while also reducing activation in our cognitive, executive-functioning brain. Like a rested muscle, it comes back fresher, speculates Strayer. But it’s also after three days that we can meaningfully reset our circadian rhythms so we sleep and digest better. We start to show more empathy, more vitality, and perhaps even re-imagine ourselves and our place in the world.”

The watercolor plein air paintings from my recent rafting adventure on the Main Salmon River are a practice of presence in nature. I create paintings on multi-day trips, on hikes, or during a spare pocket of time. In my painting practice, I paint from reality instead of a photograph, aiming to capture that feeling of immersion. With my brush, I practice rendering the shifting of sensory elements like light, water and wind.

My multi-day rafting trip on the Main Salmon River with Wet Planet last August, venturing deep into Idaho’s Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness for 6 days, camping out on beaches while sleeping under the stars, felt like the truest form of capturing the essence of these special places in nature. It’s because of the deeper feeling of presence that comes with being immersed in wilderness for an extended period of time.

I sit alongside the river, paintbrush in hand, taking time to slow down and look deep into my surroundings:  all the shades of color that I can discern, the shifting movement of nature, and the spaciousness of the landscape.

I hope when the viewer takes in my paintings, they don’t just see a painting of a river or forest, but they get the feeling of being there; they sense the comfort and awe of being with the river. I hope my paintings inspire the viewer to get outside.

It’s a simple idea, but it requires intention. Nature is medicine. I hope you have the opportunity to extend your stay in nature and capture the moment in your creative way!

To see more of Danielle’s work, check out her website: daniellemaayan.com

Danielle Sartori is a talented graphic designer with an additional passion for nature, kayaking and spending time on the river. While working in the office at Wet Planet she enjoyed the great opportunity to jump on a 6-day Main Salmon rafting trip at the end of a busy summer.

The post A Practice of Presence on Idaho’s Main Salmon River appeared first on Wet Planet Whitewater.

The 2026 season brought plenty of water (even though it was lower than average), and even bigger smiles. There were innumerable paddle and oar strokes, and countless moments of connection—both on the river and at the base camps in Washington and Idaho.

To every guest, guide, kayaker, and driver who shared the water with us this year: thank you!!

Here is a look back at some of the moments that made this season special. 

New Rowing Clinics for 2026

We kicked off the season with a refreshed format of our 8-day Rowing & Paddle Raft Guide School, which we’ve been running for 20 years. This year, we added a standalone 4-day Rowing Course to complement the 8-day program, which typically includes four days on the Owyhee River.

We also hosted several 2-day rowing clinics for private groups throughout the season, and saw growing demand for opportunities to build and refine rowing and paddling skills. The new format gave participants more ways to learn to row or hone their existing skills through 4-day courses in the Gorge, with additional opportunities to put those skills into practice throughout the summer. Our 8-day Main Salmon Rowing School was a particular highlight and a huge success.

For 2027, look for more changes and updates to our Rowing & Paddle School offerings next year as we continue to expand opportunities for rowers and paddlers of all skill levels!

The White Salmon River

The White Salmon River consistently delivers great rafting conditions throughout the spring, summer, and fall. This summer’s early low water levels, driven by an historically dry winter, brought the river into its lower flows sooner than usual. Even so, an early June opening for Class V Husum Falls and the fortunate use of our private higher put-in gave our guides and guests access to what is often referred to as the best sections of the river. With more Class IV rapids and an optional cliff jump, this section is usually only accessible later in the summer. The lower river levels also gave us the opportunity to run our full-day trips much sooner. This section allows us to run all the way through the previously dammed canyons to the confluence with the Columbia River. All in all, we had a great rafting season on the White Salmon River, providing fun technical lines, lots of dynamic river features, and plenty of whitewater fun.

Lower water levels on the White Salmon brought technical lines, an early Husum Falls season, and an incredible crew that knew how to turn every trip into an absolute blast.

Our hardworking crew made the most of the conditions, bringing their joyful energy and expertise to every trip and helping guests experience all that the White Salmon had to offer.

*This picture, taken in September, is one of our favorite pictures of all time. For the first time since the removal of the dam 14 rafting seasons ago, we almost caught a salmon in our raft while running Husum Falls!!

Idaho’s Main Salmon River

This season, we were fortunate to experience mostly clear, smoke-free skies, breathtaking views, and the deep, lifelong connections that make the Main Salmon River so special. We welcomed groups of family and friends eager to spend time together on an 8-day immersion in the wilderness and rugged beauty of the Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness. Across the board, no one was quite ready to return to normal life at the end of the trip!

One of the highlights of the season was our combined our mid-August Main Salmon Rowing School and Kayak Trip. Rafters learned to row, and kayakers got the opportunity to paddle the mighty Salmon River through Idaho’s wilderness, while the rafts transported their camping gear.

The trip brought together intermediate whitewater kayakers eager to explore new water and refine their skills with rowers looking to learn the logistics of multi-day raft trips while practicing their rowing and guiding skills. It was a great opportunity for everyone to learn, build confidence, and experience the Main Salmon together.

River Rescue School

This year, we trained and certified more than 200 boaters and other people who may work on the river in river rescue. We helped them develop the skills, judgment, and confidence to choose appropriate actions when a situation occurs on the river and rescue is necessary.

We’re continually impressed by the professionalism, dedication, and care shown by our broader community of kayakers, raft guides, natural resource professionals, firefighters, and search and rescue teams. They bring their whole hearts to this training and take seriously the responsibility of being prepared to help others when it matters most

We’re so grateful to everyone who put in the time to build these skills, look out for one another, and help make our rivers safer for everyone!

Classes, Community & The Next Generation

Kayak School & Kids Camps

Our 20th annual Youth Kayak Camp absolutely crushed it this year! Seeing the next generation charge into eddies, build confidence, fall in love with the river, and make new kayaking friends is easily one of our favorite parts of summer

These camps are a highlight at Wet Planet, and our kayaking instructors love the four-day opportunity to work with these aspiring kayakers, get to know their families, and watch their skills and confidence grow. There’s nothing better than seeing kids arrive eager to learn and leave as capable, confident paddlers!

First Descents Kayak Camps

We’ve had the honor of running these 4-day kayak camps annually since 2009. And each year, these First Descents camps always remain a highlight of the year for everyone involved. First Descents is a non-profit organization that provides life-changing outdoor adventures for young adults impacted by cancer and other serious health conditions.

The courage, joy, spirit, and growth we see in the campers throughout their week on the water with Wet Planet are truly humbling. Every year, their stories and experiences inspire us and leave a lasting impact on our entire team.

Thank you to First Descents, the campers, and our Wet Planet team for making it all happen!

Camps & Visiting Groups

A huge thank you to all the summer camps and partner groups that made Wet Planet their home base for adventure this year!

Youth campers joined us from all over the country to raft and kayak, and we loved watching them experience the thrill of rafting the White Salmon River and the wild beauty of kayaking on the Klickitat River.

There’s something special about spending a day on the river with teenagers who have put their screens away to get outside, try something new, and connect with the natural world. We’re grateful to be part of those experiences as they build confidence, friendships, and a lifelong appreciation for rivers and whitewater.

Wet Planet HQ, a Revamped Shop, BBQ’s & More!

If you stopped by our headquarters in Husum this summer, you probably noticed the glow-up in our cafe and shop! Our freshly renovated cafe kept everyone fueled with killer espresso, cold drinks, delicious pastries and sandwiches, and good vibes before and after their trips

BBQ Events at HQ!

Groups love rafting, and this year was no exception. We hosted plenty of fun wedding and corporate groups, and loved watching them celebrate together over a delicious Wet Planet BBQ after their trip. We enjoyed watching them swapping stories, laughing together, and reliving the day through their photos. Whitewater rafting has a way of bringing people together, making it a natural fit for group celebrations, team building, and simply spending time together outside.

The Wet Planet chef team Grace, Julie & Dylan whipped up some darn delicious burgers this summer for the ever hungry rafters!

Tieton Season! The annual Season’s Finale!

Nothing says the end of summer like the dam-release run on the Tieton River in eastern Washington. Our three-week season on this river is fast and furious. We welcomed many new and returning guests to our pop-up basecamp at Soup Creek Sno-Park.

This year was a bit wet—after a summer of almost no rain, we finally got some on the Tieton! But a little rain didn’t stop rafters from gearing up to experience the Tieton’s signature rollercoaster waves and splashy whitewater.

A special thank you to all the groups who joined us on the river this season, (like some on these pictures who came rafting more than once!), including the Tri-City Paddle Club and the many scout troops who made the Tieton part of their end-of-summer adventures!

Bittersweet End-of-Season Goodbyes

Many of you will recognize Jade (pictured below), who has been a much-loved fixture behind the Wet Planet espresso machine—and often behind a camera or phone—for the past five years!

This fall, we dried a tear as we waved goodbye to this Husum native as she headed off for her first year of college. Before she left, though, she made sure to spend plenty of time on the water with friends and family. We’ll miss having her around the cafe and office, but we’re excited to see where her next adventure takes her! We hope she’ll be migrating back for next season.

More teary goodbyes by the team as another member, Jack, leaves for his next adventure – the bittersweet result of a great season and building lasting friendships.

And then there are those who capture all those moments and smiles. Often behind the scenes. Our much-appreciated photography and shuttle crew, who take on one of the most dynamic and fast-paced roles at Wet Planet. Capturing the action (and the legendary flips and swims) while shuttling guests all season long. They’re constantly on the go, moving between the river and road, cameras in hand, helping keep trips running smoothly while capturing the moments our guests get to take home.

A huge thank you to our photography and shuttle crew for everything you do all season long!

Until Next Season!

Whether you were taking a line down Husum Falls, learning to row on the Main Salmon River, or relaxing on the Wet Planet deck with a coffee, you helped make this season special, and we’re grateful you were part of it.

Keep an eye out for early 2027 trip booking opportunities and class schedules. We’re already looking forward to welcoming you back for another season on the river—and our 25th year!

Until then, take care, enjoy the off-season, have a great winter, and we’ll see you on the river.

Thank you again for being part of another great season.

— The Wet Planet Family

The post Another Epic Run: Looking Back at the 2026 Wet Planet Season appeared first on Wet Planet Whitewater.

Because the Tieton trips run out of a remote, private mobile base camp in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest (rather than headquarters in Husum/White Salmon), turning your trip into a weekend camping getaway is a great way to soak in the autumn beauty, golden ponderosa pines, and crisp mountain air.

Base Camp Location & Trip Dates

Wet Planet Base Camp Location: Location Marker:

 Highway 12 between Mile Markers 167 and 168.

Turnoff: Off Highway 12 onto Forest Service Road 1305 (FS-1305).

Landmarks: Look for signs for Soup Creek / Sno-Park or Rimrock Lake Recreation Area near the bridge over the Tieton River. Wet Planet signs, vehicles, and rafts mark the exact site.

• Available Trip Dates (the first 3 weekends of September): 
  • September 5-7
  • September 12-13
  • September 19-20

Book Your Trip

Top Places to Camp Near the Tieton River Base Camp

Most camping along the Highway 12 corridor is rustic, scenic, and situated right along the water. Here are the best spots to pitch a tent or park an RV within minutes of the Wet Planet launch site:

Hause Creek Campground (USFS)

Distance to Base Camp: Less than 1 mile

Tent-focused riverside camping 

Highlights: Set right along the roaring river under towering trees. Ideal for quick morning access to your trip. Note: No potable water or hookups available, so pack plenty of fresh water! 

Indian Creek & Rimrock Lake Area 

Distance to Base Camp: ~5–10 minutes

Lakeside scenery & RV-friendly

Highlights: Places like Indian Creek Campground and Silver Beach on Rimrock Lake offer options for both RVs and tents. Rimrock Lake is famous for Kokanee fishing, incredible views, and full amenities at private options like Silver Beach Resort.

Windy Point & Willows Campgrounds (USFS)

Distance to Base Camp: ~10–15 minutes

Classic National Forest camping 

Highlights: Scenic riverside sites with vault toilets and picnic tables. A mix of reservable sites via Recreation.gov and first-come, first-served options. 

Dispersed / Primitive Forest Service Camping 

Distance to Base Camp: Scattered along Forest Roads 1201 & 1305. No ammenties camping, but tent and car camping available on public Forest Service land.

Highlights: Areas like Peninsula Campground on Rimrock Lake offer basic dispersed camping with vault toilets and no water. Perfect if you love a rugged, self-sufficient overnight stay under the stars. 

Pro Tips for Your Tieton Weekend 

Download Directions in Advance: Cell reception drops significantly once you head west along Highway 12 in the canyon. Save your offline Google Maps and campground reservation information before driving out. 

Book Ahead (or Arrive Early): September weekend spots fill up fast due to the short, high-action rafting window. Reserve USFS sites on Recreation.gov where possible, or grab first-come, first-served spots early on Friday. 

Warm Water, Warm Layers: While the dam-released water is comfortably warm compared to typical snowmelt, late September air in the Cascades can be crisp—bring cozy fleece layers and warm gear for around the campfire! 

Ready to Wrap Up the Season in Style?

Don’t let the end of summer pass you by without one last big adventure. Whether you’re splashing through continuous Class III+ waves by day or relaxing around a roaring campfire under the ponderosa pines by night, a September trip to the Tieton River is a great tradition to begin. 

Spots fill up quickly during this short, high-action season, so gather your crew, grab your camping gear, and get ready for a fast-paced finale. Book Now!

Reserve Now

The post The Ultimate September Send-Off: Tieton River Rafting & Camping Guide appeared first on Wet Planet Whitewater.

1. Catching the Tuesday Concerts at The Ruins 

Just across the Columbia River in Hood River, OR, The Ruins hosts their outdoor summer concert series. It’s only $5 at the door, features great bands, and is a really fun venue. The dance floor gets packed with the best mix of boaters, mountain bikers, and locals in the Gorge.

2. Mountain Biking at Post Canyon

When we need to trade our paddles for handlebars, Post Canyon is full of amazing mountain biking trails. This place is a true Pacific Northwest biking mecca. Whether you want flowy singletrack through the trees or massive wooden features, drops, and jump lines, it’s our favorite spot to get dusty and catch some air. 

3. Hot Tub at the Society 

After a day of adventures in White Salmon, there is no better reset than crossing over to nearby Bingen for a soak at The Society Hotel’s bathhouse. Tucked inside a stunningly restored historic schoolhouse, this minimalist sanctuary features a warm saltwater pool, a hot plunge, a cold plunge, and a cedar sauna. 

4. Get a Sweet Treat from Romeo Gelato

What better way to enjoy the tail end of summer with sweet and cool gelato from our favorite dessert shop, Romeo Gelato. Located in Hood River, OR. We love this spot for more than the decadent gelato, the location, the people, and the fun original flavors make put this on our favorite list.

5. Sipping Wine with a View at Aniche Cellars 

The Gorge is packed with an amazing variety of wineries, but Aniche Cellars has one of our favorite views of the gorge. We also really love Soča, Clyzm, Evoke, Sycline, Cor Cellars, and the Gorge White House – so many great options to choose from! 

6. Conquering the 12-Foot Drop at Husum Falls 

We might be a little biased, but you cannot talk about summer in White Salmon without talking about the river. The White Salmon River is fed by glacial runoff from Mt. Adams, keeping it crisp, clean, and thrilling all summer long.

Our absolute favorite rush is navigating Husum Falls on a full or half-day rafting trip. Dropping 12 vertical feet, it’s the tallest commercially rafted waterfall in the United States!

7. Eat Dinner at Everybody’s Brewing

Everybody’s Brewing, located right on Jewett Boulevard in the heart of White Salmon town, it’s massive outdoor deck offers front-row, breathtaking views of Mt. Hood across the Columbia River Gorge. Grab a seat in the sun, order a crisp, cold IPA or session beer, and fuel up on hearty, locally sourced pub fare. And don’t miss the pulled pork nachos!

8. Getting a treat at the Wet Planet Cafe

The Wet Planet Cafe is loaded with delicious pastries from the local favorite White Salmon Bakery, alongside refreshing iced lattes and matcha to carry you through back-to-back river laps. 

Come Share Our Favorites!

We love this river, this food scene, and this community. Whether you’re here for the big drops at Husum, a crisp pint in town, or a glass of wine on the hillside, we’d love to have you here. 

 Book your summer rafting trip with Wet Planet today, and let’s get out there!

The post Our Favorite Things To Do in the Columbia River Gorge appeared first on Wet Planet Whitewater.

This essential kayaking technique is referred to as the “Boof” and is an essential creekboating and river running skill. Whether you’re looking to refine your kayak boof technique on everyday features or step up to bigger lines with confidence, we’re thrilled to announce our brand new Whitewater Kayaking Boof Clinic at Wet Planet Whitewater. 

Clearing the Lip

Proper execution of a boof stroke keeps your kayak bow from dropping. This allows you to float over features rather than getting swallowed by them.

Controlling the Landing Angle

The height of the drop determines how flat you want to land. On smaller ledges, landing completely flat keeps your downstream momentum high. On taller waterfalls, landing too flat is not great for your back, so you need to adjust your angle to land slightly bow down while keeping control. 

Controlling & Maintaining Speed

Keeping your boat on top of the water keeps you moving downstream instead of getting stopped or slowed down by river hydraulics and recirculating holes. 

On Class Day: What We’ll Cover on the Water

In this paddling clinic, we’ll break down the mechanics across a variety of real-river features-including wave boofs, rock boofs, waterfall lips, and water boofs. Including but not limited to:

• Kayak boat angle and approach
• Edge control and balance
• Paddle stroke placement and timing
• Hydrology and hazard assessment
• Setting effective safety and managing risks

This clinic size is limited to ensure you get dedicated, individualized video analysis and real-time coaching from our Wet Planet kayak instructors.

Meet the Instructors

Connor Hayes

Conor is an ACA Level 4 Instructor, River Rescue Expert, and Wilderness First Responder. Raised in a whitewater family, Connor grew up on the water before tackling technical creeks across the Northeast and Pacific Northwest.

Ava Christensen

Ava is a professional whitewater kayaker with a lifelong passion for steep, technical rivers. Ava discovered her love for kayaking at a youth summer camp and brings years of international guiding and high-level whitewater kayak coaching experience to the team.

Clinic Details & Prerequisites

To keep the group cohesive and focused on advanced mechanics rather than basic boat control, this intermediate kayaking clinic is designed for paddlers with a reliable combat roll and are comfortable paddling Class III whitewater. 

Date: August 9, 2026 

The post Master the Boof in Whitewater Kayaking – New Clinic Now Available appeared first on Wet Planet Whitewater.

But what truly transforms a multi-day wilderness expedition from a great trip into a life-changing journey is the crew rowing the boats. A Wet Planet expedition crew is so much more than a team of elite river navigators. They are your wilderness chefs whipping up gourmet meals under the stars, your backcountry historians sharing tales of the canyon, your swiftwater safety experts, and your campfire hosts. From sunrise coffee to the final rapid of the day, followed by a scrumptuous dinner, these folks simply love sharing the magic of traveling by river through this specularly beautiful wilderness, and enjoy taking care of their guests and fellow river travelers. 

We are incredibly proud to introduce our world-class team leading our Main Salmon expeditions for the 2026 season. Get to know the faces behind the paddles! 

Todd Collins

Todd is one of the original visionaries behind Wet Planet, bringing over 35 years and 37,000+(probably more) commercial river miles of elite whitewater experience to our Main Salmon River trips. His journey began at a North Carolina summer camp and eventually turned a passion for rivers into a lifelong passion and whitewater career. With a degree in Computer Science, Philosophy, and Spanish Studies, Todd has guided, taught, and paddled rivers across the globe – from the iconic rivers of West Virginia, Utah, and Alaska to the Jungles of Costa Rica and Ecuador, and Expeditions in Chile, Peru, Zambia, Uganda, and Nepal.

As a former Senior Instructor and Course Leader for the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), Todd is an expert in the art of the multi-day wilderness expedition. He has led everything from desert trips on the Rio Grande to 30-day wilderness journeys above the Arctic Circle. A certified Wilderness First Responder and an elite Swiftwater Rescue Instructor-Trainer who teaches other guides how to stay safe, Todd’s deep knowledge of river rescue, natural history, and leadership ensures that your journey down the Main Salmon is not just an incredible adventure, but an exceptionally safe and enriching one. 

Todd’s Favorite Part of the Trip: The fascinating human history of the canyon. He loves introducing guests to the off-grid lifestyle, like visiting Greg and Sue at Yellow Pine—two of the roughly six year-round residents in the canyon. They homestead, generate their own power, grow an incredible garden, and Greg even crafts custom knives. For Todd, sharing these stories and the legend of Buckskin Bill is what makes the canyon truly come alive. 

Dave Rhodes

If you are joining us on the Owyhee or Main Salmon Rivers, you will love getting to know multi-day guide Dave. A true Oregon native and lifelong “Jack of all trades,” Dave’s diverse background spans construction, vineyard management, commercial fishing, and heavy crane operation. After raising a family, Dave and his wife, Arwen, transitioned to a mobile lifestyle, embarking on a year-long global journey through 11 countries, where Africa’s Zambezi River hooked him on international whitewater.

A certified Wilderness First Responder and Rescue Diver with extensive multi-day rowing experience across six western states, Dave brings safety, resourcefulness, and a warm, adventurous spirit to every trip. As guest Jerry D. shared after a recent expedition,

“Dave and the crew bent over backwards to make the trip as enjoyable as possible… and made this trip a special experience.”

Sydney Lynch (Squid)

Growing up in Arizona, training horses, Sydney always had a deep connection to the outdoors, eventually earning a degree in Recreation Management from Northern Arizona University. After a career in equine occupational therapy, she traded the stables for the river canyons in 2017, chasing a new challenge and falling head over heels for the river lifestyle. 

Known on the water as “Squid,” Sydney has earned a legendary reputation among Wet Planet guests for her perfect blend of elite river skills and vibrant personality. Whether she is navigating technical rapids or sharing hilarious jokes at camp, her warmth and expert leadership shine through. As past guest Rachel B. shared,

“Sydney was amazing!! She always let us know what to expect… we felt safe with her the entire trip. Her kindness, encouragement, and hilarious jokes really made the trip for us!” 

Giani

With a legendary career that began in 1995 as the youngest licensed guide on New York’s Upper Hudson Gorge, Trip Leader Giani brings an unmatched three decades of elite whitewater expertise to our multi-day expeditions. From claiming raft first descents in the Northeast to navigating West Virginia’s fierce Gauley River, Giani has guided virtually every stretch of water imaginable—including over 40 rivers in his personal raft, “Mr. Blue.”

Off the water, he holds a history degree and boasts the rare feat of hiking the entire Appalachian Trail northbound during the winter. At Wet Planet, Giani shapes the industry by leading our annual raft guide school and assisting with swiftwater rescue training.

Certified in Outdoor Emergency Care, his deep-rooted passion for education and safety earns the instant trust of every guest who steps into his boat. Whether you are tackling technical rapids on the Owyhee or soaking in the canyon beauty of the Main Salmon, Giani’s wealth of experience ensures a world-class, unforgettable wilderness journey.

Thomas Christner

Growing up in Northern California surrounded by the famous forks of the American River, Thomas was destined for a life on the water. First introduced to the world of rafting by a high school teacher, he began guiding at just 19 years old on the South Fork of the American. After a brief stint working for an aggregate mining company, Thomas realized his true calling lay in the current. 

When the summer river season wraps up, Thomas trades his paddle for a snowboard, heading to Big Sky, Montana, where he clocks an impressive 100+ days on the mountain each winter. This year-round dedication to outdoor adventure makes him a fantastic leader on our multi-day wilderness expeditions. Thomas’s easygoing nature, combined with years of technical rowing experience, makes him a guest favorite on the water. Whether he’s navigating big waves or sharing stories around the campfire, Thomas is always ready to make your journey down the Main Salmon an unforgettable experience. 

Thomas trip favorites: For Thomas, the ultimate river trip is all about disconnecting and embracing the river rhythm. His absolute favorite spot is Rabbit Camp, thanks to its great beach and perfect swimming area, and nothing beats wrapping up a day on the water with a classic salmon dinner. But the best part of the whole experience? Completely losing track of what day or time it is—with the sole exception of that inevitable 6:00 AM coffee wake-up call. 

Kale Anton 

Growing up in Salt Lake City, Kale spent her childhood immersed in snowy mountains and red desert landscapes, fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world. Her path to the river was cemented during a transformative, high-adrenaline rafting trip on Idaho’s legendary Lochsa River. That adventure sparked a lifelong passion for whitewater that eventually led her to guide on the pristine Flathead River in Glacier National Park.

She is also a passionate advocate for inclusivity in the outdoors, having served in leadership roles for Backcountry Squatters, a club dedicated to empowering women and non-binary individuals in outdoor spaces. An all-around outdoor enthusiast, Kale spends her free time backpacking, mountain biking, skiing, and foraging for wild berries. Her warm, inclusive energy and deep respect for wilderness ecosystems make her an incredible addition to our multi-day crew.

Kale’s trip favorites: For Kale, the absolute best part of the trip is all about soaking up the summer vibes—spending hours swimming, sitting in the warm water, and just relaxing in the sunshine. 

Kate Bieritz

Originally from Texas, Kate’s love for wild rivers began early during family canoe trips down the St. Croix and the Rio Grande in Big Bend National Park—a place that remains one of her absolute favorites in the world. This early connection to nature led her to study Animal Science at Texas A&M University, cementing her status as a self-proclaimed wildlife and conservation nerd. Kate launched her professional guiding career on the legendary Chattooga River in the Appalachian foothills, where she spent five spectacular summers sharpening her technical whitewater skills.

An endless summer boater, Kate splits her off-seasons between guiding on the pristine Tongariro River in New Zealand and rowing multi-day expeditions down the Rio Grande. For Kate, guiding is about deeply connecting with a river’s story—from its unique geology to its flora and fauna—and sharing that knowledge with her guests. She passionately believes that experiencing wild places firsthand builds the deep appreciation needed to protect them. Whether she is pointing out a rare bird species along the canyon walls or swapping book recommendations at camp, Kate’s vibrant energy makes her an incredible leader.

Alexis Foster

Growing up in Colorado exploring the vast outdoors, Alexis was destined for a life of adventure. Initially introduced to the river through fly fishing, she quickly fell in love with multi-day expeditions and big whitewater, launching her guiding career in 2021 on Colorado’s Arkansas River. For Alexis, the best part of guiding is sharing the exhilarating experience of the river with guests, leaving them at the end of the day with a sense of accomplishment and a lasting stoke for the water.

Whether she is navigating the narrow gorges of the White Salmon River, rowing the deep blue waters of the Main Salmon River, or spending her free time climbing, skiing, and backpacking in the mountains, Alexis brings an infectious energy and passion for wild places to every trip. 

While this fabulous team forms the beating hart of our multi-day operation, other expert Wet Planet guides such as Lauren Chapelle, Ava Christensen, Toto Silva, Steve Merrow, or others, may also help out and surprise you with their presence on our trip.

Your Adventure Awaits 

Whether they are pulling a perfect line through a roaring rapid, pointing out bighorn sheep on the canyon walls, or baking a fresh Dutch oven dessert at camp, this team is ready to show you the very best of the Main Salmon River. Their unmatched experience, dedication to safety, and pure joy for the river lifestyle are what make a Wet Planet trip the gold standard of wilderness rafting.

Spaces on our multi-day wilderness expeditions fill up fast, and this crew can’t wait to welcome you out on the water.

Are you ready to unplug, unwind, and experience the river trip of a lifetime?

The post Meet the 2026 Wet Planet Crew Leading Your Main Salmon Wilderness Expedition! appeared first on Wet Planet Whitewater.

Proper outfitting isn’t just about comfort; it’s about connectivity. If you’re sliding around inside your boat, your edges will feel laggy, and your roll will be harder. Here is how I dial in my Dagger for maximum performance and how you can do the same. 

1. The “Leg Lifter” 

The Dagger seat features a “Leg Lifter” (a ratchet-adjustable seat riser). By ratcheting the front of the seat up, you wedge your thighs firmly into the thigh braces. This eliminates the gap between you and the boat, giving you more control over the boat. You can achieve the same effect by gluing thin layers of foam to the seat base. Heavy-duty Velcro is also a great tool for testing outfitting positions before committing with glue. 

2. “Hips Forward” Hack 

Good posture while paddling is important for power and injury prevention. Dagger Team member Tara Blair shared a great trick; place a small wedge of foam at the very back of the seat. 

This nudge encourages your hips to roll forward into a “neutral pelvis” position. It naturally improves your posture and engages your core, preventing the “C-shaped” slouch that leads to lower back pain. This keeps you in an aggressive, “ready” position to tackle the next rapid.

3. Footblocks at an Angle

When it comes to the bulkhead, don’t just throw a flat slab of foam in there. I prefer to shape my footblocks at an angle—thicker at the heel than at the toes. This ensures your entire foot maintains contact with the bulkhead. When you need to push for a boof or a brace, your whole foot is engaged rather than just your toes. For almost any sport, we know that your power really comes from your whole foot, we tend to lose power when only on our toes.

4. The Hip Pad Balance

Hip pads should be snug, but there’s a trick to them: pull them UP. I’ve found that if hip pads aren’t pulled high against the hip bone, they can pinch and cut off circulation to your legs (which can lead to numb legs and feet, no thank you)

Before you start shaving down the foam, try shimmying them higher.

You want to be tight enough to be secure in your seat, but loose enough to keep the blood flowing! Some paddlers even prefer their pads to be slightly wider at the top to “hook” them into the boat.

5. Backband Tension

I like my backband pretty tight to keep me forward, but remember: it’s a support, not a pusher. Your posture should ultimately come from your core muscles; the outfitting is just there to assist. The goal is to find that “Goldilocks” tension where you feel supported through your lower back without feeling restricted or shoved into your footbraces. 

Outfitting isn’t a ‘one and done’ process. The foam you put in during the winter while wearing a thick drysuit and layers might feel totally different in the summer when you’re in a thin splash jacket. Don’t be afraid to move foam around, go for a paddle, and rip it out if it doesn’t feel right.

Take the time to dial it in, and your paddling (and body) will thank you!
Want to see these tips in action? Join us for a whitewater kayaking lesson at Wet Planet, and we’ll help you outfit your boat and tune your technique in a single day.

The post How to Outfit a Whitewater Kayak appeared first on Wet Planet Whitewater.

Whitewater Kayak Types:

Creek Boats

When you’re stepping up to a new class of whitewater, feeling a little nervous is natural. With high-volume bows and a more aggressive rocker, these boats are designed to stay on top of the water rather than cutting through it. 

If you’re feeling apprehensive about a certain rapid or looking to punch through features without getting “back-endered,” a creek boat might be a good fit. This boat style is more forgiving and helps you stay upright when the water gets chaotic, hopefully allowing you to focus on the line rather than your roll. 

Popular models that come to mind: Pyranha Scorch or Dagger Code

River Runners

The “do-everything” kayak — balanced, versatile, and built to help you grow.

If creek boats are all about maximum forgiveness and staying on top of the water, river runners sit right in the sweet spot between confidence and performance. They’re designed to help paddlers learn how to move with the river — catching eddies, carving across currents, surfing small waves, and developing boat control that makes kayaking feel fluid and fun.

River runners tend to be a little faster and more responsive than creek boats while still offering plenty of stability and predictability. They reward good technique without punishing mistakes too harshly, which is why they’re often considered one of the best styles for progressing paddlers. Whether you’re learning to read water, dialing in ferries, or starting to feel more dynamic on the river, this category gives you room to grow.

For many kayakers, a river runner becomes the boat they spend the most time in. They handle a huge variety of river styles well and are equally happy on splashy Class II wave trains, technical Class III rapids, or long river days where comfort and efficiency matter.

If your goal is to become a well-rounded paddler and build strong fundamentals that translate across different rivers and conditions, a river runner is hard to beat.

Top models that come to mind: Jackson Flow or LiquidLogic RMX

Half-Slices

Business in the front, party in the back.

If you are in a more comfortable whitewater environment – meaning you are confident with the run and the consequences of a swim are low – the half slice is the ultimate skill builder. This is a great option when you are ready to start playing a bit more in the rapids. 

The benefit of this boat is that you have a bow similar to a creek boat for handling whitewater, but a thin, slicey stern that allows you to play a lot more. It’s a great tool for pivot turns and tailies. Catch an eddy line and watch the world tilt! One of my favorite things about a half-slice is being able to practice hard moves in easier whitewater. 

Popular models to look for: Jackson Antix 2.0 or Dagger Rewind

Playboats

The Full-Slice: Low volume, high rewards

The full-slice is for the days when you want to feel every nuance of the current. This style of boat is the best for stern squirts and mastering more complicated tricks. Because there is so little volume, the boat reacts instantly and forces you to become a more precise paddler. Plus, if you find yourself getting stuck in a hole, you will flush faster in this smaller volume style kayak! 

What whitewater kayak to choose, when, and why 

If you’re looking for the right first whitewater kayak to buy, or which boat to choose from your quiver, ask yourself: “What is my goal?”

Now, of course, if you’re looking to buy your first whitewater kayak, the other question you may find yourself asking is what size do I get?

How to Choose the Right Size Whitewater Kayak

Your body weight determines the required volume (liters) of the kayak. You need a boat that floats you high enough to be maneuverable, but small enough that you can control it with your hips and knees. Most modern boats come in Small, Medium, and Large:

Under 150 lbs: 

Usually fit best in Small/Small-Medium sizes (approx. 55-65 gallons).

150–200 lbs: 

Typically fit best in Medium sizes (approx. 65-80 gallons).

Over 200 lbs: 

Typically require Large sizes (approx. 80+ gallons) for proper buoyancy and cockpit room.

The best way to know if a boat is right for you is to ensure the outfitting (hip pads, seat, and thigh braces) can be adjusted to fit like a snug, comfortable glove without causing pain. Also, don’t miss our video on how to outfit your kayak right for you.

The best way to know what works is to try it. Our whitewater kayaking courses give you the chance to demo different size and styles and find the hull that speaks to your paddling soul.

At Wet Planet, our beginner kayaking courses use the Dagger Code creek boat along with the Jackson Flow and Jackson Zen river runners. These forgiving, versatile designs help new paddlers build confidence while learning essential river skills. For every course, our instructors help each student choose the kayak that best matches their size, comfort, and experience level. They also get paddlers outfitted with all the essential gear—including a helmet, PFD, paddle, and spray skirt—and make sure their kayak is properly adjusted for a comfortable, secure fit, setting them up for success on the water.

Book your first whitewater kayaking course now.

The post Which Whitewater Kayak is Right for Me? appeared first on Wet Planet Whitewater.