The Methow River boasts the biggest waves in Washington State during its runnable season May – June. It begins high in the mountains of northern Washington and flows through an alpine forest and ends in the desert. There are many spectacular geological formations, abundant wildlife, great swimming holes and stunning scenery. The ponderosa forests, basalt cliffs and beautiful weather give rafters the feeling they are floating through a landscape reminiscent of the Old West.

This is a great day trip for visitors to the Methow Valley, and the towns of Chelan and Winthrop are just a half-hour drive away. Seattle is a four-hour drive.

First time rafters who are in good physical condition can do the Methow River trip as a perfect introduction to whitewater. Experts will be in for an exciting experience of continuous rapids, and one Class IV, if you choose to float the Black Canyon stretch.