Many people think the whitewater season begins in the heat of summer, but prime time for rafting and kayaking is in the spring. As winter’s snow begins to melt and spring rains feed the rivers, water levels rise, and the landscape transforms into a lush, wild paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or new to the sport, April and May offer some of the best conditions of the year.
If you’ve been waiting for summer to book your next whitewater trip, here’s why spring is the real start of the season—and why you won’t want to miss it!
Why Spring is the Best Time for Whitewater
1. More Water Means More Rivers to Run
Spring flows bring rivers to life. As snowmelt and seasonal rains fill waterways, rivers that may be too low later in the summer become prime for paddling. This opens up a variety of runs, from scenic wilderness floats to high-adventure rapids, giving paddlers more options than any other time of year. Some of our favorite spring only river trips? The Wind River, Klickitat River, and Owyhee River.
2. Fewer Crowds
While summer draws large groups to the river, spring offers a more intimate experience. In the Columbia River Gorge we are fortunate to rarely be faced with intense crowds, however spring rafting definitely benefits from fewer people at the put-in and take-outs. Fewer people on the water means more flexibility, and a chance to soak in the scenery without distractions. For those who crave a true escape into nature, this is the time to go.
3. Stunning Spring Scenery
As the rivers swell, the surrounding landscapes burst into bloom. Wildflowers line the canyon walls, waterfalls flow at their fullest, and the forests glow with fresh spring growth. Spring also brings incredible wildlife viewing, with bald eagles and other creatures making appearances along the riverbanks.
4. Warmer Weather, Perfect Conditions
While summer heat can make midday trips intense, spring temperatures are often ideal for paddling—cool enough to stay comfortable in gear, but warm enough to enjoy lunch on a riverside beach. Plus, believe it or not, many rivers actually feel warmer in spring due to rainwater mixing with the snowmelt.
6. The Best Time to Learn and Train
Spring isn’t just about epic rafting—it’s also the perfect time to build your skills. Whether you’re looking to refine your paddling technique, take a rescue course, or even train to become a guide, spring offers ideal conditions for learning. With fewer crowds, dynamic water levels, and expert instructors available, it’s the best season to level up your whitewater skills. Not to mention, you have the entire season to practice so you will truly optimize your growth and see real results. If you’re trying to up your kayak skills, you can start now and work up to an epic 6-day raft supported kayak trip on the Main Salmon River!
Spring Whitewater Adventures with Wet Planet
We are quite busy at Wet Planet in the Spring, and we couldn’t be more thrilled by all the different ways we get to spend time on and off the water with fellow river enthusiasts. What we have going on in April and May at Wet Planet? Check it out:
White Salmon River Trips – The Season is On!
We’ve already launched our first White Salmon River trips of the season, and the river is splashy, exciting, and full of energy. The water is flowing beautifully, and thanks to recent rain, it’s even warmer than usual!
River Rescue Courses – Train for the Season Ahead
Spring is the best time to prepare for your own adventures with our River Rescue Certification (RRC) and Swiftwater Rescue Technician (SRT) courses. Whether you’re a professional guide or a recreational paddler, these courses teach essential river safety skills that can make all the difference on the water.
Paddle Raft & Rowing Guide School:
Our spring Guide School kicks off in April, running over two weekends and ending with a 4-day trip on the Owyhee River. Designed for aspiring river guides and private boaters alike, this course builds a strong foundation in river travel. Students gain hands-on experience in rowing, paddle guiding, and overnight trip logistics while exploring multiple rivers over a total of 8 days.
Klickitat River Trips
The Klickitat River comes alive in spring, fed by snowmelt and surrounded by stunning basalt cliffs and waterfalls. This lesser-known gem offers an incredible mix of rapids and scenery, making it a perfect early-season adventure. Our first trip runs April 19th!
Wind River Trips – A Class IV/V Rush
For those craving high-adrenaline whitewater, the Wind River delivers. This steep, technical Class IV/V river is at its best in the spring, offering non-stop action and an unforgettable experience for advanced paddlers and thrill-seekers. Due to the high technical nature of these rapids, we watch water levels closely. We plan to run our first trip on April 19th, you can reserve a spot and we will watch the water levels closely to make sure it’s just right.
Owyhee River – 5-Day Expeditions Begin April 13
The Owyhee River, often called Oregon’s Grand Canyon, is one of the most unique multi-day trips in the country. Our first 5-day trip launches in April, offering a journey through breathtaking canyons, remote wilderness, and some of the most scenic desert landscapes in the Northwest.
Spring is Calling, Join in on the Whitewater fun
If you’ve never experienced spring whitewater, now is the time. The biggest rapids, most stunning scenery, and best adventure opportunities happen before the summer crowds arrive. Whether you’re looking for a weekend rafting getaway, a high-adrenaline class V challenge, or a scenic multi-day trip, spring is the season to get on the water.
Join us at Wet Planet and make the most of this incredible time of year!
