American Whitewater will be making a stop in Leavenworth as part of the 50th Anniversary Membership Appreciation Tour. We will join Osprey Rafting, Leavenworth Mountain Sports, and Team Wave Sport to celebrate the rich whitewater resources of the eastern Cascades at the Wenatchee River Festival on May 21st and 22nd.
Friday May 21st
Raft Rodeo
4:30-7:30 pm
NRS R2 Rodeo Competition sponsored by Osprey Rafting.
Please call Osprey Rafting to pre-register, and for information including the site of the competition (509-548-6800). Meet at 3 pm at Osprey Rafting, 9342 Icicle Creek Road, Leavenworth, WA (just off Highway 2 at the west end of town). Float will continue downstream to the Cashmere take-out. All are welcome. Judging of R2 video Saturday night at the festival. Prizes will be awarded.
Saturday May 22nd
Wenatchee River Events
10:00 am – 4:30 pm
Info booth in Leavenworth town park next to gazebo.
10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Paddle with the pros, Free for American Whitewater members (join now). Join one of Team Wave Sports’ paddlers (TBA) for a run through the Wenatchee River’s best play spots and pick up tips to improve your skills along the way. Meet at the town park in Cashmere by 9:45 am and we’ll shuttle you up to the put-in at Rodeo Hole. You can reserve your place by contacting AW local volunteer Tom O’Keefe okeefe@riversandcreeks.com.
10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Freestyle clinic with the crew from Fluid Adventures. Contact Chris Totten info@fluidadventures.com for additional details.
11:30 am – 4:30 pm
$2 Mini Floats sponsored by Osprey Rafting from the top end of Enchantment Park down to Barn Beach (shuttle included).
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
American Whitewater member appreciation event at the Cashmere take-out. As AW celebrate’s its 50th Anniversary we want to thank all our members and volunteers across the country for their hard work and dedication protecting and preserving our nation’s whitewater resources. Join local AW board members Steve Exe and Rich Bowers as they host a free BBQ for AW members. You’ll have an opportunity to join or renew your membership, pick up AW gear, and win prizes in the “name the rapid” contest. This is also your chance to learn more about all the ongoing projects in the Pacific Northwest and find out how you too can help make a difference.
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Leavenworth Mountain Sports Fun Rodeo. This will a fun low-key event geared towards the beginner and intermediate paddlers. It’s also a good way to tune-up for the June 5th Wenatchee Rodeo (this June 5th event will be coordinated by Darren Albright).
Check back as there may be some slight revisions to the schedule. A downriver race may also be added.
Saturday Evening, May 22nd
Party at Osprey Rafting
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm — Gates Open
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm — Beer Garden
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm — Live Music
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm — Raffle
After Video — NRS R2 Rodeo Competition Video Judging
Other Great Rivers Nearby
The Wenatchee River drainage is home to world class whitewater with something for all interests and skill levels regardless of the flow. Popular nearby runs include:
In addition to the abundant boating opportunities you will find great camping, mountain biking, and climbing in the Wenatchee National Forest. The region is the place to be for outdoor sports enthusiasts. Stop in at the Leavenworth Ranger District Office in town or contact the folks at Leavenworth Mountain Sports.