Floating the ENTIRE Columbia?

Hey all, I'm new to the forum and have some questions. I'm planning a cycling/drifting trip next summer and ideally I'd like to ride my bicycle up to Revelstoke or further up the Columbia and then drift all the way back to my home in Portland. Is this even possible? I thought I read about a husband and wife doing this a few years back in a 19 footer. If this float is possible, then I'll be looking to build a 17 footer this winter for the trip! Any advice, info and/or otherwise is greatly appreciated! Thanks!

Alex

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Permalink Reply by Richard Elder on July 21, 2013 at 5:35am

Hi Alex,

In view of the fact that the Columbia in its present form is almost entirely a lake, you might want to contact these people. http://www.angusrowboats.com/  With one of their boats you could carry your trailer and bike in the boat to portage around the dams.  It would be a miserable challenge in a drift boat because of their poor rowing capability and high windage.

Permalink Reply by Alex Miner on July 21, 2013 at 11:25am

Oh wow...thank you for the angus rowboats link.  While it is a little different of an idea than I had in mind, I actually really like it.  The self-portage via bicycle is perfect! I'm wondering though if this kind of boat will handle the Columbia? If so, how far up river would you recommend I put in? Their website says the boats are seaworthy, so I'm assuming they should be able to handle the less than stellar conditions when the winds kip up.  Any experience with these boats or do you know someone who does?

Permalink Reply by Don Hanson on July 21, 2013 at 7:02am

  Be aware that the Columbia's prevailing wind pattern during the warmer months is west to east and can be pretty strong.....like in the 40knot plus range quite often.  That might make for a tough go trying to head from Umatilla to Portland against that.  Riding a bike east bound, now that is easy...

Permalink Reply by Rick Newman on July 21, 2013 at 9:53am

Alex, a friend of mine canoed much of the Columbia River. I don't remember the time of year but it seemed like it was fall or early winter. He is unreachable now in Yemen. when I hear from him I'll ask him about the details. He said going through the locks was quite something. I also remember reading somewhere that non-motorized vessels may not be allowed to use the locks. Also moving around the dams may be tough without vehicle and trailer support. Certainly doable, just have to plan for the difficulties.

Rick N

Permalink Reply by Alex Miner on July 21, 2013 at 11:28am

It seems like doing the angus rowboat expedition model with the bicycle boat trailer is the way to go.  As much fun as it would be to go through the locks, and believe me, I'll try...at least that way I have a way to portage around efficiently.  But please do let me know if your friend has any advice on how, where, etc... Thanks!

Permalink Reply by Rojo on July 21, 2013 at 10:23am
You might check out the book "Anything Worth Doing." It chronicles John Barker and Clancy Reece's journey from the Salmon River headwaters to the sea and a later.speed-trip down the Salmon where Reece drowns. Here's a review from Outside online: http://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/media/books/Idahos-L...

I read the book and thought it a good read, but I also knew the players peripherally. It would certainly give you a taste for the task you are about to undertake.
Permalink Reply by Alex Miner on July 21, 2013 at 11:26am

Looks like a great read. I'll pick up a copy.  Thanks for the heads up.

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