From whitewater rafting, paddle boarding and fly fishing, fall is a perfect time to enjoy waterways all around the Yakima Valley.
Ride Tieton River Rapids
The annual Tieton River flip-flop is a one-time-a-year experience when you can enjoy the thrill of the fastest whitewater in Washington State! For one short month every September, the Tieton River becomes a wild ride on Class 3 rapids, dropping 55 feet of elevation each mile! This special time of year happens when the water flowing out of the Rimrock Reservoir is increased, dramatically affecting the flow of the Tieton and Naches rivers. Designed to make way for spawning salmon and to provide for the irrigation needs of the Yakima Valley, the flip-flop’s additional benefit is turning the Tieton River into one of the best whitewater rafting areas in all of Washington! The total trip is 12 miles long, and takes around two to three hours. Since the water has been warmed in Rimrock Lake all summer, this is also some of the warmest whitewater rafting in the state!
To ensure you have a safe and exhilarating experience without the worry, book a professionally guided rafting trip. Local guides are experienced with every aspect of the challenges of the river, and will ensure you have a thrilling and safe adventure! This year, things look a little different with current restrictions. Osprey Rafting Company offers a limited number of guided adventures on the Tieton this month. Book your trip on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through the end of September depending on water levels.
They provide wetsuits, paddles, helmets, life jackets, a safety talk, and friendly, experienced guides, as well as all your transportation to and from their staging area. This year masks are required at the office and any time on the bus. Secure your spot!
Extend your trip and camp along the river or book a night in Yakima to enjoy Yakima Valley wineries, breweries and restaurants as they welcome guests back with reduced capacity.
Paddle Boarding Adventures
With lakes and rivers all around the Yakima Valley, there’s more than one way to enjoy the water. Shannon and Andy Mahre of MADE (Mahre Athletic Development Experience) and Girls with Grit have several river and lake SUP clinics scheduled this fall. This inspirational husband and wife team are dedicating to inspiring clients to experience new things and reach new levels.
Shannon says, “Getting outside and learning new skills (or honing already learned skills) is a GREAT way to improve your mental and physical health – especially during the time of Covid. These skills, once learned, help our clients to get out and adventure on their own, with their families and gives them the knowledge and confidence to do the sports they love on the trails, lakes and rivers of their choice.”
So whether you’re trying SUP for the first time or want to push yourself further, check out their scheduled clinics and private lessons.
If you prefer to learn privately with exceptional, inspirational instruction, Sara Washburn of Just Breath Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Yoga also offers SUP and SUP yoga private instruction by reservation. She is a L2 WPA certified SUP instructor and certified yoga instructor. Reserve your spot or reserve by contacting her via @justbreathsup on Instragram.
NEW – Yakima River Canyon Cruise
Red’s Fly Shop is introducing a brand new way to enjoy the Yakima River Canyon with a luxury eco tour cruise! These special rafts are equipped with overhead shade canopies, bench seats with back support, and even a tabletop for drinks and snacks!
The adventure includes a 2-3 hour guided scenic float through the Yakima River Canyon. In addition to identifying local wildlife and fauna, guests will learn about the formation of this spectacular recreation area! You will meet your guide at Red’s Fly Shop at 1pm to begin your adventure and finish your trip back at the shop!
These tours will be available Saturday’s starting September 11th with 8 spots available at $95 per seat. Start time will be 1pm at the shop and the cruise will go from Big Horn back to Red’s which will be a 2-3 hours float time. Book Your Cruise
Blue Ribbon Fly Fishing
The stunning Yakima River Canyon is home to the only blue ribbon fly fishing in Washington State and Red’s Fly Shop offers premier guided trips and lessons in the heart of the canyon with dramatic basalt cliffs rising around you. Stay the night at Canyon River Ranch’s beautiful riverfront property for a special adventure.
Categorized in: Family Fun, Outdoor Recreation
