There’s something about whitewater rafting that gets your heart pounding in all the best ways. Maybe it’s the roar of the rapids. Maybe it’s the rush of slicing through waves with your crew. Either way, it’s the kind of thrill that sticks with you.
The best part? You don’t have to travel far to experience it. If you live in Clark County, world-class rafting adventures are just a short drive away. You’ll find everything from gentle runs for beginners to wild class IV rapids that test your nerves.
Let’s dive into six epic guided river-rafting options around the area that will leave you grinning, soaked, and maybe even planning your next trip before the first one's over.
1. White Salmon River
Distance from Vancouver: 74 miles
Best Time to Visit: April to October
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Less than two hours from Vancouver, the White Salmon River is a local legend known for its fast, glacial-fed waters and iconic basalt canyons. Guided tours often include the optional 12-foot plunge over Husum Falls, making it a top-tier adventure that’s customizable to your comfort level. This river is the ultimate day trip for Clark County thrill-seekers craving big rapids and unforgettable scenery without the long drive.
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2. Clackamas River
Distance from Vancouver: 27 miles
Best Time to Visit: March to June for big rapids, July to August for more technical runs
Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Looking for something close to home but still packed with excitement? The Clackamas River is just less than an hour from Vancouver and winds through the Mt. Hood National Forest.
It’s full of class III+ rapids, perfect for both new rafters and those wanting to level up a bit. From half-day adventures to full-day outings, this river has a little bit of everything—lush views, wildlife sightings, and rapids that’ll keep you on your toes.
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3. Hood River
Distance from Vancouver: 66 miles
Best Time to Visit: April to May
Experience Level: Advanced Only
Located just over an hour from Vancouver, Hood River’s West Fork is a wild ride packed with technical Class IV and V rapids. Its steep gradients and quick transitions make it a favorite among serious paddlers. It’s one of the most intense guided runs you can do in a day, so no need to fly to Colorado or Idaho for elite-level whitewater.
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4. Sandy River
Distance from Vancouver: 44 miles
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
You might drive past the Sandy River without even realizing what it’s hiding. A 55-mile stretch that delivers serious beauty and adrenaline, featuring 70-foot canyon walls, waterfalls, and moss-covered everything.
This stretch is known for its fast, tight turns and class III-IV rapids. It’s not ideal for first-timers, but for folks with a little experience, it’s one of the most rewarding runs. The river’s close proximity to Vancouver means you can chase waterfalls and rapids and then be home in time for dinner.
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5. North Santiam River
Distance from Vancouver: 74 miles
Best Time to Visit: August to October
Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate
The North Santiam offers two totally different experiences, depending on when you go. Want a chill day on the water with the family? Head there in August. Looking for a more intense ride? Come back in September or October, when water levels rise thanks to releases from the Detroit Dam.
It’s far enough to feel like an escape but close enough to Clark County for an easy day trip. Plus, the surrounding forest is especially stunning in the fall.
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6. Klickitat River
Distance from Vancouver: 125 miles
Best Time to Visit: May to August
Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Hidden away in the Klickitat Canyon, this river is a lesser-known gem that offers a raw, remote experience. Fed by snowmelt from Mount Adams, the water is crisp and lively, with Class II-III rapids surrounded by lava cliffs and evergreen forest.
It’s ideal for those who want scenery and splash in equal measure. This is a scenic wilderness experience without needing to camp overnight, so it’s doable in a long day from Clark County.
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Why Should You Book That Rafting Trip
Rafting might sound like a big leap out of your comfort zone. But once you’re in the boat, paddling through rapids and laughing with your crew, it just feels right. There’s something seriously freeing about trading screen time for splash time.
All of these rivers are within a couple of hours from the county, making them perfect for a weekend trip or even a last-minute day adventure. You don’t need to be an expert. You don’t need tons of gear. The guides take care of that.
If you want to make a full day of it, plan to grab lunch in a nearby town or check out local hiking trails or hot springs after your trip. Many of the rafting outfitters post river conditions, gear checklists, and booking options on their websites and Instagram pages, so it’s easy to stay updated.
Let the River Do the Rest
If you’ve been itching to try something new, now’s the time. Clark County is lucky to be surrounded by rivers that deliver both peace and pulse-pounding adventure. From quick family outings to multi-day wilderness escapes, rafting is one of the best ways to soak up nature’s wild beauty.
So go ahead and skip the same old weekend plans. Grab a paddle, call up a friend, and see where the river takes you.
Looking for gear tips or more details? Check out the outfitters mentioned above. Most of them post current conditions and booking info on their sites and socials, so you can dive in with confidence.
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