O.A.R.S. Wyoming

Specialties

Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Park adventures since 1969 – Based in Jackson, O.A.R.S. offers multi-​day guided rafting & kayaking trips in Grand Teton National Park & half-​day Yellowstone Lake kayaking trips in Yellowstone National Park. O.A.R.S. also offers Snake River whitewater rafting in Grand Teton National Park.

Recognized in 2008 and 2009 by National Geographic Adventure as «The Best River & Sea Outfitter on Earth,» O.A.R.S. sets the standard in first-​class rafting, sea kayaking and multi-​sport adventures throughout North America, South America and Fiji.

O.A.R.S. caters to active travelers of all ages and abilities with experienced, professional guides and top notch equipment and today offers more than 75 unique itineraries worldwide, including one-​day and weekend escapes.

History

Established in 1969.

George Wendt, founder and president of O.A.R.S. and recent recipient of the Adventure Travel Trade Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award, is a true pioneer in the adventure travel industry. His passion for running rivers was born in the 60s, when he descended the seldom-​traveled Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. According to Wendt, «the trip introduced me to a world that I didn’t know existed.» That fascinating new world would soon become one that Wendt dedicated himself to completely, one that he dreamed of bringing into the lives of others. In 1969, that dream came true; with his friend, the late Ed Gooch, Wendt established Gooch-​Wendt Expeditions, running professional trips on the Colorado River. In 1970, the company was selected by the National Park Service as the first exclusively oar-​powered rafting outfitter authorized to run the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon, and was appropriately renamed O.A.R.S. (Outdoor Adventure River Specialists).

Meet the Business Owner

George W.

Business Owner

In 1969 a middle school science teacher from Los Angeles started running whitewater rafting trips on the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. Shortly thereafter, his company was selected as the first exclusively oar-​powered rafting operator in Grand Canyon National Park. In 1974, he and his wife relocated the company to the community of Angels Camp in Calaveras County just miles away from the free-​flowing Stanislaus River.

The family-​run company (Wendt’s wife, Pam, is a co-​founder; sons Clavey and Tyler oversee operations from the Angels Camp headquarters) is serious about what they do, and they like to have fun. Since the company was founded, George has testified before the Senate Subcommittee on River Preservation on behalf of American Outfitters, helped found an eco-​tourism operation in Fiji, facilitated the filming of the recent Grand Canyon 3D IMAX movie and donated countless hours and numerous trips to support youth and environmental organizations.

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George W. says,

«Rustic mountain lodge, excellent location in proximity to town square and by far the best choice in the area with a heated pool and jacuzzi.»