Winding Waters River Expeditions

Specialties

We offer all-​inclusive whitewater rafting and fly fishing trips on the

Snake River through Hells Canyon, the Grande Ronde River and the Salmon River in Idaho. Visit some of the Pacific Northwest’s most beautiful, remote country while being pampered by our outstanding guide crew, including the owners. Be wowed by our outstanding menu comprised of local, organic foods. We love what we do and it shows.

History

Established in 2004.

Winding Waters River Expeditions is a family owned and operated whitewater rafting outfitter based in Joseph, Oregon. As a company started by river guides in 2004, we love what we do and know what it takes to provide a quality rafting experience. Our guests return year after year due to our commitment to quality, attention to detail, and our outstanding guide crew.

The Winding Waters boathouse sits at the base of Chief Joseph Mountain, named for the Nez Percé leader who said of the Wallowa Valley, «I love that land of winding waters more than all the rest of the world,» which explains the name of the company, Winding Waters River Expeditions.

Paul and Penny Arentsen partnered with Morgan Jenkins in 2006. Both Paul and Morgan had extensive experience as guides in Hells Canyon, on the Salmon River in Idaho, the Grande Ronde River. After partnering, they’ve run enough trips together to trade knowledge of every good campground, rapids, fishing spot and swimming hole along these rivers.

Meet the Business Owner

Paul A.

Business Owner

Owner, Office Head Hancho, & Lead Guide

Born: Louisville, KY

School: Indiana University (Finance)

Life Experience: Paul began his career as an outdoor educator and guide during the summers. He worked as a guide for Wilderness Ventures (WV), leading teen backpacking trips all over the West and Alaska. While working for WV, he was introduced to «The River» which he has not been able to leave behind since. In 1998, Paul began working as a professional river guide on the Salmon River, Deschutes, Grande Ronde, and Colorado Rivers.

Certifications: Wilderness First Responder, Outdoor Emergency Care Technician, Swift Water Rescue, and CPR

Passions: Paul has a genuine interest in sharing his passion and knowledge of running rivers with others, which will become apparent from the first moment you meet him. Paul resides in Joseph, OR with his wife, Penny and daughter Linden where he spends his time with his family, skiing, fishing for Steelhead and looking forward to the next river season.