Forrest Parkinen

I am Forrest and I was born and raised in Southern California. I’ve always had a love for the outdoors, especially the water. Growing up I found myself surfing and swimming in the ocean at every opportunity, but didn’t discover rivers until I attended Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona. My first river trip was on the San Juan River and I knew right away that I was hooked! Shortly after, I found myself involved in an outdoor recreation program at NAU and after training in swift water rescue, wilderness medicine, and expedition planning I guided my first trip in 2013. Ever since, rivers have been a huge part of my life and have tested my skills, connected me with incredible people, and taken me to the most extraordinary places I’ve ever been.

I’ve been lucky enough to boat on many rivers in my career thus far, but the Middle Fork of the Salmon has captured my heart and I’m excited to share its magic with you!