Wild Rivers with Tillie

Once described as teeming with life and an abundance of fish, the Snake River is now heavily altered for hydroelectric, storage, and transportation. Despite the billions of dollars spent on fish recovery, the once prolific west coast salmon runs are at the brink of extinction. Visit the epicenter of the race to save this keystone species and a growing movement to remove the river’s four dams.

The Colorado River traverses through the Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Deep in the canyon are wild rapids, pristine waterfalls and ancient ruins. Six million people visit the Rim each year, but few float down this Wild River. Discover how our group of travelers, who begin as strangers, are transformed and connected by the power and magic of the River.

The small but mighty Yampa River supports many human uses, from agriculture to tap water, while remaining wild and free. What will happen to the people, economies and wildlife that have depended on this river for centuries as they face drought and must adapt to new ways of life?

Beginning in the rocky mountains of Colorado and ending in a sandy trickle at the Gulf of Mexico, we pick up this mighty river as it traverses the international border between Mexico and the United States. Here, we encounter a desert teeming with life, including evidence of recent migrant crossings and petroglyphs left by ancient travelers who knew no borders some 3,000 years ago.

Known as the Jewel of the West, the Yampa River is one of North America’s last undammed river ecosystems. Rising in the Rocky Mountains and flowing through NW Colorado, It’s a living showcase of the diversity of life a free-flowing river supports. Ride the rapids through Dinosaur National Monument while exploring rich ecological and cultural delights.

A rare opportunity to explore the Snake River through the eyes and voices of Native American Leaders from the Tribes that intimately understand the land, the River and the importance of the Salmon. Ride the rapids and float through this dramatic landscape that connects the past to the present - all while having a great time on the river.

In southwest Texas, far from cities and people, lies a pristine river: clear spring-fed turquoise water tumbles past rugged ridges and scenic canyons. It’s not easy to get there, but it’s worth the effort to experience this unique combination of snorkel-worthy pools and swift rapids set in a desert environment. The Devil’s River is one of the most pristine and Wild Rivers of the west.

Even one of America’s most beloved National Parks faces threats from mining, dams, drought and development. From the rim to the river, join us for this rare opportunity to meet Native American Tribes whose origins are here. Raft the canyon’s mighty rapids from dam to dam through some of the oldest geology on earth, and learn about this River that provides water and power to 40 million people.

The Rogue River was among the first to receive the Wild and Scenic Rivers designation, protecting it from dams and mining and ensuring the region would remain undeveloped and rugged. Located in western Oregon, it is home to thriving, abundant wildlife and geologically diverse terrain. Come ride the challenging yet family friendly whitewater and experience what this truly wild place has to offer.