This trip is the same section as the Lower Methow Half Day Rafting, call to inquire about kayaking it instead of rafting!!

The Lower Methow Half-Day is a late-season family favorite! It is a lower-valley float that is mellow and beautiful, an enjoyable, introductory stretch of river. This trip can be done in rafts (ages 6+) and/or inflatable kayaks (ages 10+). It is a great trip to learn to kayak or practice intermediate skills like catching eddies and surfing. Methow Rafting uses stable and inflatable sit-on-top kayaks that are perfect for beginners and experts alike. Some kayaking experience is preferred on this trip, since the river is a bit more technical.

This trip meanders below the rolling golden foothills of the North Cascades and includes a few small rapids. Its season begins once the Winthrop Scenic is over for the year (usually around mid to late July). Only thirty-five minutes from both Winthrop and Chelan, the Lower Methow Half-Day is close to these destination towns yet feels rural and away from the hustle and bustle. Because it is two hours on the water, you’ll have plenty of time for another activity, while still allowing you to get back by dinner time.

This trip meets at the Methow Rafting Boathouse in the town of Methow. After getting geared up (all river gear is provided), you will hop on the bus and drive five minutes up-valley to the put-in. Your guide will give you a safety talk and review paddling techniques. After that you will push off and begin floating down the beautiful Methow River.

The rapids are small and channelized which means it is beginner friendly and the pools in between rapids are abundant, large, and deep. There are several swimming opportunities (the water is often over 75 degrees this time of year) and the chances are high that you will see a salmon, trout, or white fish. Once done, the bus will pick you up and take you right back to the Methow Rafting Boathouse, a quick five minute drive, where you will return your gear and be on your way.

Meeting times and location: 9:30 am and 1:30 pm at the Methow Rafting Boathouse in the town of Methow (not the Methow Rafting Office in Winthrop)