Unplugged and Reconnected
How Our Family Found Peace and Transformation on a ROW Adventures Family Magic Whitewater Rafting Trip
In today's fast-paced world, getting lost in the constant noise of notifications, emails, and to-do lists is easy. Finding time to connect with family away from digital distractions feels more challenging than ever. This summer, the Wisconsin Adventure Family embraced that challenge—we embarked on a thrilling five-day rafting trip down Idaho's Salmon River, with ROW Adventures. It was a journey filled with anticipation and the promise of new, exciting experiences.
Our family has always been hungry for new adventures, especially water-related ones. Whether it's canoeing, kayaking, or just spending time on a boat with friends and family back in Wisconsin, the water has always been our happy place. But this rafting trip was different. It was about more than just adventure; it was about rediscovering the simple joys of life—navigating rapids, sleeping under the stars, and sharing laughter in the rafts during the day. It reminded us that sometimes, the best way to move forward is to unplug and embrace new people and scenery.
Our Journey Begins
Our adventure started early one morning, departing at 8:30 am from the Hells Canyon Grand Hotel. We boarded a yellow school bus that briefly stopped at the Nez Perce National Historical Park. This stop was an enlightening treat for our kids as they learned about the Indigenous Peoples who had lived along the Salmon River area for thousands of years. It was just the beginning of a journey filled with unique experiences that would enrich our knowledge and stay with us forever.
The sweltering 100-degree heat that greeted us in Lewiston was not exactly the welcome we had hoped for. I initially felt apprehensive about roasting in a raft for five days. But as soon as we reached the boat launch, a refreshing breeze swept in, and the stunning mountain views surrounding the river quickly put me at ease.
When we arrived, our guides greeted us with enthusiasm that was truly contagious. Before we loaded the raft, they provided us with brief training on safety and expectations. Their experience and professionalism reassured us that we were in good hands, even as the possibility of ending up in the water made me a little nervous.
Discovering Nature's Wonders
The beauty of our journey was that it wasn't just about adventure but also a learning experience. We made several stops along the way to explore the wonders of the Salmon River. We played on the magical beaches, visited historical Chinese mines, and hiked to pioneer homesteads. Each stop allowed us to immerse ourselves in the area's rich history and culture.
One of my favorite memories from the trip was our first stop on day one, where we picked apricots from trees along the riverbank. It was a simple but sweet reminder of the joy in the most unexpected places.
The Rapids and Relaxation
The rapids we navigated ranged from Class I to Class IV, each bringing its thrill. There were moments when I thought our raft would flip, but we pulled through each time. The river wasn't just a challenge; it was a sanctuary. The peaceful stretches of water between rapids allowed us to relax, soak in the scenery, and appreciate the calm before the next rush of excitement.
We slept under the stars at night and woke up to breathtaking sunrises. I'll always remember those mornings, sipping coffee by the river and watching the sun slowly rise over the mountains. It was a peaceful start to each day, made even better by the delicious meals ROW Adventures prepared, which catered to all our dietary needs.
Family Bonding and New Friendships
One day, as we entered the Green Canyon, we were captivated by its beauty—it felt like we were part of a movie scene. The day was full of surprises, especially for the kids. They jumped off cliffs, and Bryce even caught a bass, which quickly became an impromptu appetizer for the adults, thanks to another parent who happened to be a chef.
Our kids were constantly engaged throughout the trip, thanks to the guides who organized fun activities like nature scavenger hunts and the no-talent show. The children's excitement was infectious, and it was heartwarming to see how well they bonded with the other families on the trip.
But the trip wasn't just about our family and our connections with others. We shared stories and laughs around the dinner table with the other parents each evening. These conversations deepened our bond, creating friendships that we know will last long after the trip ends. Disconnecting from the digital world opened the door to genuine, face-to-face interactions that brought us closer to others in ways we didn't expect.
The Power of Adventure
Even though I initially didn't intend to paddle, the thrill of conquering the rapids drew me in. Our guides gave me the confidence to join my family in daily paddling. Watching Armani and her dad swim through the rapids was exhilarating. Each day was filled with laughter, adventure, and a shared sense of accomplishment, bringing us closer as a family and filling us with a sense of empowerment and pride.
The professional guides were not just experts in navigating the river—they were also fantastic with our kids. They shared their knowledge of the area, history, and wildlife, enriching our experience unexpectedly. Knowing that our children were safe and entertained allowed us to immerse ourselves fully in the adventure.
Moments of Courage and Growth
One of the most unforgettable moments of the trip was watching our daughter, Armani, summon the courage to jump off a cliff into the river below. Her confidence and bravery took our breath away and seeing her swim through the rapids filled us with pride. It was a powerful reminder of how these experiences, these moments of courage and growth, can shape us in ways we never imagined.
Unplugged, Reconnected, and Inspired
Our five-day rafting trip wasn't just a family vacation but a transformative experience. It allowed us to reconnect with each other and nature in a rare way in our busy, tech-driven lives. Unplugging from the digital world rejuvenated us and inspired us to seek more adventures that foster genuine connections and personal growth.
The lessons we learned on the river—about the value of slowing down, the joy of being present, and the power of adventure—are ones we'll carry with us for the rest of our lives. We encourage you to escape the digital noise and enjoy the beauty of genuine connections with loved ones. Whether rafting down a river or spending time together in your backyard, the most important thing is to be present, embrace the moment, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Note on author: Dineo is a wife, mother, and renowned travel writer seeking outdoor experiences that are inclusive, family friendly, and sustinable in nature. Originally from South Africa, but residing in Wisconsin, Dineo and her Wisconsin Adventure Family value the power in adventuring close to home, while encouraging responsible exploration in your own backyard and beyond.
