Washington River Guide Service since 1980
For more than 40 years, we have been offering professionally guided river trips on the most thrilling and scenic rivers in Washington. Wildwater is made up of passionate river guides who have traveled the world for the sport we all love. What sets us apart from others in our industry is our commitment to guest service, top of the line equipment, and the highest guide certification standards in the state. Our goal is to connect people with nature through fun, professionally guided river trips that will enhance the way people view themselves and the environment. Join the experience today!
Team Wildwater - Join the experience
Team Wildwater is much more than just a team. We’re a close-knit family of river enthusiasts. We live and love to guide people down the beautiful rivers of Washington State. When we’re not on the river you can find us hiking, fishing, camping, rock climbing, practicing yoga, and climbing mountains, as well as other outdoor activities. Come be a part of the Wildwater experience and let us share our passion with you.
The Owner
Lance brought new energy and offerings to Wildwater River Guides in 2012.
LANCE REIF - OWNER, RAFT GUIDE, KAYAK INSTRUCTOR
Lance grew up playing in the rivers and creeks of West Virginia where he developed his passion for the outdoors. As a Senior, he was introduced to kayaking by a teacher at his high school. Upon graduation, he attended Ohio University where he earned a degree in Adventure Recreation and Business. In the Spring of 2004, Lance began his commercial whitewater career working as a professional guide on the New and Gauley Rivers in West Virginia for Songer Whitewater.
Lance's professional guide accreditations include:
- Level 4 American Canoe Association Whitewater kayak instructor
- Sierra Rescue International River Rescue Instructor
- Wilderness First Responder with over 20 years of experience in the whitewater industry
Lance brings worldwide experience with rafting, kayaking, and SUP in Ecuador, Mexico, Africa and British Columbia, and has gained a renewed focus on continuing education, risk management, and professionalism within the business. Over the past 21 years, he has guided on rivers throughout Washington, West Virginia and Oregon while competing in various whitewater races and events.
One of Washington's first river outfitters
Wildwater River Tours was founded in 1980 by Eastern Washington University senior student Rod Amundson. The outdoor recreation activities he once viewed as fun hobbies were transformed into a full-fledged river canoeing and whitewater rafting outfitter.
Over time the business focus shifted from flatwater canoeing to whitewater rafting on Washington and Oregon's best rivers. At the end of the 2012 season, Wildwater River Guides was born out of a desire to offer more ways to experience the beautiful rivers of the Pacific Northwest. Under new ownership and outfitted with the latest equipment, the company now offers expert whitewater kayak instruction, specialty kayak clinics, and guided down-river SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) trips in addition to whitewater rafting trips and guide training.
Wildwater River guides is under permit with the U.S. Forest Service, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, and the North Cascades National Park.