Imagine rafting through deep river canyons, the sound of rushing water and birdsong filling the air, knowing that your day will end with a chef-prepared, five-course meal paired with exceptional small-batch wines.
This is the promise of Eastern Oregon’s Minam Store, which pairs natural splendor with epic meals on its Wine & Food on the River trips. Operator and guide Grant Richie and fellow guide and Michelin-trained chef Andrae Bopp have been teaming up for years to offer luxurious rafting trips along the Grande Ronde, Hells Canyon and Lower Salmon rivers in the Wallowas, in the far northeastern corner of the state. These trips aren’t about disconnecting. They’re about reconnecting with something deeper — the natural world and the people who share it with you. Best of all, no rafting experience is required. Simply bring your sense of curiosity and a taste for the good life, and expect to have a very fun time.
A Scenic Escape: The Grande Ronde
With gentle whitewater and a mountainous backdrop, the Grande Ronde River feels like stepping into a painting. This is a perfect trip for those wanting to soak in the scenery — and sample excellent wines — without the adrenaline rush. Rafting through this lush forested canyon, you’ll have plenty of chances to step ashore for hikes amongst the evergreens, cottonwoods and alder, or spot a herd of bighorn sheep effortlessly traversing the steep basalt canyons.
When the day on the river winds down, the magic continues. Camp is already set up, and soon the inviting aromas of a well-prepared meal fill the air. Wine is at the ready as you sit back and hear stories from the winemaker themselves on the vintage and how it was made. It’s decadence without pretense and the perfect end to an active day.
Grande Ronde trips are three days and two nights, and wind through a 40-mile stretch of the river, starting right from the Minam Store itself. Expert guides steer you through Class II rapids, which give just enough action to keep things interesting.
Hells Canyon: History Carved in Stone
For history buffs, nature lovers and thrill seekers alike, Hells Canyon is a wonder. The deepest gorge in North America, every twist and turn on the Snake River reveals something extraordinary — from Nez Perce pictographs, remnants of Chinese mining sites and old homesteads to rollicking rapids, it’s a place that makes you feel small in the best possible way.
Days on the Snake River are filled with experiencing the canyon’s rich history and marveling at its sheer size. Evenings bring a touch of elegance as you gather around for a meal that brings the quality of fine dining to the remote wilderness. These are not your average river meals. Instead think grilled rack of lamb with demi-glace butter, beef tenderloin carpaccio with fried capers or tacos with braised short ribs. Desserts range from St. Louis-style cheesecake to homemade marshmallows and graham crackers with artisan chocolates, fired to delectable toastiness with a culinary blowtorch. Each dish pairs seamlessly with wines poured by the winemaker on board, creating a dining experience as rich as the canyon’s story
The Minam Store offers three- and five-day Wine & Food on the River trips in Hells Canyon covering up to 79 miles. Class III and IV rapids keep you at attention, but with expert guides and instruction, even those without any experience will feel safe and comfortable.
The Lower Salmon: Adventure Meets Relaxation
Flowing through one of the longest unobstructed stretches of river in the U.S., the Lower Salmon carves its way through the Salmon River Canyon, the second-deepest gorge in North America, surpassed only by Hells Canyon. Its striking white, sandy beaches make perfect spots for camping, while the river’s remote setting offers a front-row seat to nature. Travelers might catch glimpses of mountain goats, bighorn sheep or black bears along the way. As night falls, the expansive skies — free of light pollution — reveal a dazzling display of stars.
The chance to enjoy local wines and memorable meals in this untamed setting is an unexpected luxury. Imagine crawfish étouffée or grilled-watermelon salad with pepitas and charred feta, followed by an evening dip in the river or a hike through the rugged canyon. It’s a seamless blend of adventure and indulgence that allows intrepid travelers to fully embrace the present moment.
The Minam Store offers four-day, three-night trips on the Lower Salmon, covering 61 total river miles with Class II-IV rapids along the way.
