The Upper
|
| Put-in: |
Above Falls Creek |
| Take-out: |
Mineral Springs Road |
| Difficulty: |
Class III+
|
| Length: |
3.4 miles |
The Lower
 
|
| Put-in: |
High Bridge Road |
| Take-out: |
Columbia River |
| Difficulty: |
Class IV
|
| Length: |
5 miles |
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The Wind is perfect for the adrenalin junkie in search of big drops, hits and waves with a backdrop of spectacular Washington canyon scenery. It begins in the foothills of Mt. Adams and flows down to the Columbia River through boulder gardens and steep ledge drops. The Lower section of Class IV+ is popular with kayakers and rafters, but this is and expert run and should only be tackled by boaters will a lot of experience and the willingness to endure an arduous portage around Shiperd’s Falls. The Stabler to High Bridge section has also been a great stepping-stone for Northwest boaters and features a series of tight chutes and rocky rapids.
Boaters can expect to see bald eagles nesting trees overhead or majestically circling in search of food. The clear waters of the river also support large spring Chinook and Steelhead Salmon.
Most choose to run the Wind in the spring and early summer, but later season runs are possible in lower water, with more technical maneuvering required.
There are a few other sections worth considering for private boaters. One is the easily accessible Upper run, from Falls Creek to Mineral Springs Road, which features Class III+ rapids. The Mineral Springs to Stabler section is uncharacteristically mellow but winds through a beautiful broad valley past alder stands and brushy banks.
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