Methow River, Washington
This is a big-river float that's long on scenic panoramas of the Methow Valley and North Cascades. Your day will start with those views, some pioneer history, fleeting wildlife encounters, and a few dunks in the river as you float quietly through a picture-perfect pastiche of forests, meadows, and sloping hillsides. Thrill seekers, don’t despair, however! There's some technical froth toward the end as the river narrows and drops through six miles of Class III-IV rapids on its way toward the Columbia River and the town of Pateros. Rapids like Jolly Green Giant, the Black Hole, and Another Roadside Attraction will get those paddling muscles working. The Methow's season mirrors the spring snowmelt off the North Cascades, with May and June the best months, possibly July if the snowpack is particularly heavy.
* Trip price reflects the average cost per day for a guided rafting adventure on a given river (
= $50-$100/day;
= $100-$250/day;
= $250 or more/day) and accounts for half-day, full-day, or multiday rafting excursions. Lodging, dining, and transportation costs (airfare, car rental/shuttle, equipment rentals, etc.) have not been factored into account. Please note that the trip price classification is intended to be an approximate guideline, as the range of prices on a given river can vary based on amenities, services, and customized add-ons offered through individual outfitters.
