Raft Types

Types of Rafts on Our Trips

We use a variety of raft-types and raft configurations on our trips. Guest comfort, safety considerations and trip efficiency combine to help us decide which rafts are appropriate for which trips. While half and one-day trips use only paddle rafts, you are likely to see a variety of rafts and configurations on most multi-day trips. On a typical multi-day trip we let guests decide which type of raft they want to be in (we don't assign seats). We switch around a lot during the day, so everyone has the chance to try them all. We do, however, give preference for the oar raft to folks who have difficulty paddling or may have physical limitations.

Type of Rafts

OAR RAFT

These rafts are from 14' to 16' in length with a padded bench seat and back rest in front. The guide rows the raft and guests can sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. Depending on the section of river, the oar raft may be limited to two passengers.

OAR-ASSISTED PADDLE RAFT

oar assisted paddle raft with Ouzel Outfitters

This type of raft is a combination of both an oar raft and a paddle raft. Up to six guests provide power by paddling as a team, while the guide steers with oars in the back. This combination reduces the amount of paddling needed from guests.

INFLATABLE KAYAK

Inflatable kayaks (IK) are manned by single guest with a double-bladed paddle. IKs follow the rafts with a guide providing instructions for each rapid.  IKs are shared by everyone and carefully managed to make sure the difficulty level of rapids is appropriate for the guest.

PADDLE RAFT (DAY TRIPS ONLY)

oar assisted paddle raft with Ouzel Outfitters

Used exclusively on half and full-day trips, the paddle raft holds up to 8 paddlers and the guide. Everyone has a paddle and participates, following the instructions of the guide.  The guide sits in the back and has a larger paddle with which they are able to steer the raft.

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