Green

Difficulty: Class III/IV

Less than an hour from Seattle, the Green River Gorge is one of the most beautiful river canyons in Washington. Moss, ferns, and other flora cling to the canyon walls in “hanging gardens” threaded with tiny waterfalls, creating rainforest-like scenery. The canyon is filled with boulders making this a technically challenging, class 3 to 4 river. Although most rapids and drops followed by a brief calm pool, the rapids are quick in succession, making this trip not only beautiful but heart-pumping as well.

The Green river whitewater river rafting trip has a very short window of time. It usually only runs in Late April and Early May as the river water level is very much dependent on rainfall. Our trips start at Kanasket-Palmer State Park and end at Flaming Geyser state park. Both are parks owned and managed by the Washington state parks.

Soon after launching, we soon find themselves surrounded by the tall canyon walls of the Green River Gorge. Ledge Drop 1 and Ledge Drop 2 supply challenges early on. More class 4 rapids like Pipeline, Mercury, and The Nozzle keep rafters on their toes. After navigating Paradise Ledge, take a moment to soak in the scenery and then whitewater continues. Once through the canyon, the lower section allows some time to relax with some easy class 2 and 3 rapids. The Green is held to a very high standard as it is close to Seattle, yet feels like a world away.

River Highlights:

• 1 hr. southeast of Seattle
• Deep, green canyon
• Class 3 and 4
• WA State Jewel
• Only runs late April / early May