A fifty mile stretch of the Columbia River has been protected from development, hydro dams and agriculture first by its inclusion in the Dept of Energy Hanford Project and now as a national Monument.  It is a little difficult to get to usable launch points but it was worth the trouble.

Spring flow rate creates significant current; over 6 mph is some places and full of swirls and whirlpools. It is an impressive waterway both for the flow and for terrain it slices through.  We powered upstream then enjoyed the amazing quietness as we floated back down.   The river bank oasis in this otherwise arid place attracts deer and coyotes plus a nice selection of waterfowl.

It is not exactly a wild river since flow is governed by the Vernita Dam just upstream. There is still a fare amount of DOE infrastructure visible above the Hanford side banks.  Still, it was a beautiful and peaceful (ironically) trip.