Yakima River Rafting
Upper Yakima River - Class I-II
- Put in: Teanaway River Bridge
- Length: 3.5 hours
- Equipment: Rafts, kayaks and fishing equipment
The upper section of the Yakima River flows through the foothills of the Cascade Mountains between Cle Elum and Thorp. Because of the drop in elevation, from mountains to plains this section of river is swift and somewhat choppy. Your group will need to be able to paddle together in order to maneuver your equipment when getting in or out of the river and to keep your raft away from the banks.
This area is manageable by novices but is not for those who want a lazy day where your paddles never have to touch the water. This section has one set of class II rapids, which is usually the highlight of your trip, but can be avoided by floating on the other side of the river.The Upper Yakima flows through private farmland and deep canyons with basalt cliffs. The banks are forested with pine trees and brush, throughout your float you will see birds, ducks, cranes, and the occasional deer.
Click here for directions Still Have Questions? Read our FAQ's!
Lower Yakima River - Class I
- Put in: Bighorn Campground
- Length: 3.5 hours
- Equipment: Rafts, kayaks, tubes and fishing equipment
This sleeping beauty is the most relaxing stretch of the Yakima River. Beginning at Big Horn campsite, just six miles from I-90, this section of the Yakima slows its roll due to the backwaters above Roza Dam. It stays close to Highway 82, floating by multiple BLM and Fish and Wildlife campsites and picnic areas. Rill Adventures provides full service between the Big Horn campsite and the BLM Big Pines recreation site.
Fair warning: don't let the calm waters fool you into thinking that you don't have to pay attention! The banks are lined with trees and bushes that can pose serious safety hazards if you are not careful. You will need to put your paddles to use whenever you start getting near the riverbanks.
Click here for directions Still Have Questions? Read our FAQ's!
Guided Trips
We love guided trips and we think you will too. If you are a first time Yakima River floater a guide will help you hit the best rapids, stop at the best places or get the most relaxing day you could imagine. A guide takes all the stress out of knowing where to get out or missing any highlights.
When you book a guided trip you and your group will have 1 guide and 1 boat all to yourselves, we do not usually mix groups.
Add a picnic lunch to your day to make it even more hassle free
The Upper Yakima River is the most popular guided trip. It has the best rapids, best swimming and the best stopping spots. Highlights of the trip include a 20 foot jumping rock, a railroad tunnel, lots of swimming and the only set of class II rapids on the Yakima.
Book a Guided Trip Today
Upgrade Your Trip With a Picnic Lunch!
Standard Picnic Lunch $10.00 Deluxe Picnic Lunch $12.00 Your choice of Sandwich or Wrap Your choice of Sandwich or Wrap 16 oz. Water 16 oz. Water Assorted Chips Assorted Chips Cookies Cookies Mini Carrots Mini Carrots Watermelon slice Fresh, Fruits and Vegetables
SANDWICH CHOICES-Turkey, ham, roast beef, tuna, veggie, chicken, cheese or peanut butter & jelly.
TOPPINGS- lettuce, tomato, pickle, onion, mayo, mustard and cheddar or swiss cheese.
Sandwiches come standard on wheat berry bread unless you request otherwise.* People who cannot eat gluten have a choice of lettuce wraps or a salad with chicken, ham, turkey or roast beef.
River Information for Rafters
Fishing License Info (Dept of Fish and Wildlife)
Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce
Map of river access points (lower canyon)
Snoqualmie Pass Report (WS DOT)
Lodging
Upper Yakima Campgrounds (closer to Cle Elum)
