

Best for advanced divers, Up to 19m, boat entry, strong current.
Columbia River Canyon is a challenging freshwater drift dive requiring advanced skills and precise buoyancy control. Divers navigate depths reaching 19 metres in a powerful current that necessitates boat-based entry to avoid shore surf. Conditions are demanding, with water temperatures ranging from 40°F to the low 70s°F and visibility that can drop to near zero. Divers should be prepared for cold water, potential entanglement, and heavy boat traffic. The site offers an opportunity to experience a high-energy river environment where various temperate freshwater fish and invertebrates are expected to inhabit the water column. A drysuit and torch are recommended for all dives.
46.27010, -119.26680
There is an eddy that runs along the shore; you can drift down to the cable in the main current and use the eddy to return to the entry point.
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Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Depth
Up to 19m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Current
Strong
The site supports a variety of temperate freshwater fish and invertebrates, including sturgeon, trout, perch, burbot, blue gill, common carp, catfish, and freshwater shrimp.
No, this is an advanced site due to the strong currents, variable visibility, and cold water conditions.
The site reaches depths of up to 19 metres.
Boat access is required to avoid the surf and shore break at the water edge.
Snorkelling is not recommended due to the strong currents, low visibility, and significant boat traffic.
Key hazards include strong currents, cold water, low visibility, entanglement risks, and active boat traffic.
Diving at Columbia River Canyon in Richland requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
Columbia River Canyon in Richland can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.