Top 10 reasons to choose River Recreation
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose River Recreation?
23 years of experience, professional, highly trained and entertaining guides, an emphasize on safety, great food, more trip options and incredible discounts makes River Recreation the best whitewater rafting company in Washington. If you want to raft with The Washington Whitewater professionals, choose River Recreation.
Do I have to be able to swim?
No, everyone wears a Coast Guard approved life jacket. So even in the unlikely event that you take an unscheduled dip in the river, you'll float for a few seconds until you are assisted back onto the raft.
What equipment do you provide?
We provide all the gear and equipment you will need. Each guest is issued a life jacket, paddle, wetsuit and a pair of booties for the trip. On some rivers a helmet is both required and provided to everyone on the trip.
What size wetsuits do you have?
We have small, child suit sizes all the way up to 5XL grizzly suits. So, no matter what size you are, we probably have a suit to fit you. Also, with 15 sizes of booties, we are sure to have one that will fit you.
What do I have to bring?
We advise you bring such things as a towel, a swimsuit or two, an extra t-shirt, an extra fleece top, some sunscreen, sunglasses, and some water.
Is rafting dangerous?
Exciting is a far better description. All adventure sports have an element of risk, which is what makes them exciting. Rafting with professionals such as River Recreation, using commercial quality equipment, and trained river guides reduces the risks to the minimum.
Are we prepared for an emergency?
All our rafting guides are certified for Class lV and class V rivers. In the event of dire emergencies we can make arrangements to evacuate sick or injured persons at their own expense. We do stress our staff members to prepare for emergencies and we have in-house training for such emergencies. In addition we have taken the extra steps to make sure we are prepared for emergencys by such simple things as carrying extra emergency gear on the river.
What about children?
New for 2005 we have added a new lower Wenatchee river, perfect for those 6 and older. On the upper Wenatchee trip and the Skagit float trips we do have a minimum age of 6 years old. On such runs as the Wenatchee, Nooksack, Methow, Tieton, White Salmon and the Klickitat we do have a minimum age of 12. On our more challenging runs such as the Skykomish and Green River kids do have to be 16 years old provided they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Can young adults go alone?
Yes, if they are 16-18 and the "assumption of risk waiver" is signed by a parent or guardian prior to the trip.
Which river trip is best for us?
Each river we raft is unique. Young children and those looking for a gentle float would be great paired up with the Upper Wenatchee, the lower Wenatchee family float, or the Skagit float trips. Beginners and adventurers alike may find what they are looking for on the Wenatchee, Methow or Nooksack rivers. The Tieton, White Salmon and Green are favorites among the Class IV crowd. For exciting Class IV/V whitewater it’s hard to beat the Skykomish. Take into account the paddling skills and physical abilities of each member of your group. If you have more questions call our office at 1-800-464-5899. Our staff of Washington rafting specialists are experts at matching individuals and groups to the appropriate river.
When should I make a reservation?
Certain days during the season sell-out quickly, so we encourage e-mailing or calling our Office to ask about availability. Generally, the sooner you make a reservation, the better. While reservations are required in advance to participate on a rafting trip, we are always busy taking "last-minute bookings". As long as there is available space, we will be happy to help you get on the river - even at the last minute!
How do I make a reservation?
You can reserve space over the phone, or on the web! Start at our reservation information page for links to our online help forms and cancellation policy, or contact us by email or phone at 1-800-464-5899.
What about food?
We do serve a hearty lunch on all trips unless other arrangements have been made. All meals are prepared for us by one of our several professional catering companies and served to you fresh, and ready to eat. If you don’t eat meat we can accommodate you as well. Please simply make sure our office is alerted to the # of vegetarians on the trip and we can make sure we have a substitute there for them.
What about last-minute reservations?
We pride ourselves on being the kings of last-minute reservations. Often we can have you on the river the next day. The best way to see if you can get on a trip last minute is to call our rafting hotline at 1-800-464-5899.
What about cancellations?
For all trips cancelled 14 days prior to the trip date, you do receive your money back in full. For trips cancelled 7 to 14 days before the trip date, you will receive your money back minus a $15.00 per person cancellation fee. For all trips cancelled within 7 days of a trip, we do have a zero refund policy.
River Classifications - International Scale of River Difficulty
Enjoy the Ride? Tip Your Guide!
Many of our guests ask if they should tip their guide. You should not feel pressured or obligated to give a gratuity, although gratuities are gladly accepted for exceptional guiding. Gratuities have come in the form of beer, pie, and cash between 10-20% like you would tip at a restaurant.