Welcome to Whitewater Guidebook – your ultimate one-stop shop for all things river-running, paddle-pushing, and whitewater. Whether you’re plotting your next adrenaline-fueled adventure or just daydreaming about the perfect splash, we’ve got you covered with expert advice, trip reports, and info on the latest gear.
Meet the Team
We don’t just talk about whitewater – we live it. Our team is made up of passionate paddlers, experienced guides, and river enthusiasts who are dedicated to sharing their love for the water. Here’s the crew making it all happen:
Zachary Collier
Founder of Northwest Rafting Company, Whitewater Guidebook, Gear Garage and River Hardware, His river hats have logged more miles than most people will ever dream of. A leader in river safety, logistics, and expedition planning, he brings unparalleled expertise to every adventure. When he’s not guiding trips or scouting new runs, you’ll find him hiking with his dog, Pippen, or spending time with his wife, Heather. His passion for whitewater fuels everything we do.
Zach on the Owyhee
Michael Hughes
Michael grew up in the small town of Stewartville, Minnesota, where he spent his childhood exploring the woods—a habit he’s never outgrown. Now calling Washington home, he’s still outside, trail running, and paddling wherever the water flows. He believes in the magic of “river time” – that blissful state where schedules don’t matter, and life is all about time on the water. Off the river, he’s usually trail running or throwing a frisbee or ball for his dog, Tintu, or hanging with his fiancée, Beth (who’s also a kayaker, because of course she is!).
Michael Hughes ready to lay some treats
Courtney Sweeney
Courtney's love for whitewater started in 2011 when she jumped straight into guide school on the Arkansas River—her first day of training was also her first-ever rafting trip. She’s been hooked ever since. After spending a decade chasing rivers and snow across the Rockies and the West Coast, she’s now made Boise, Idaho, her home. Her craft of choice? A Hyside Minimax. Rivers have shaped her life—she met her husband, Thomas, on the Arkansas River, got engaged on the Illinois and married on the Lochsa. Now she’s raising their son, Russell, to be the next great outdoor explorer.
Courtney and Thomas R2ing the Gauley in her Mini Max
Tate Tomlinson
Tate’s been living the river life since she was nine, so yeah, she knows what’s up. She’s got that special talent for making sure everyone – from first-timers to seasoned paddlers – feels like a badass on the water. She’s also the queen of keeping things fun, whether that means impromptu campfire singalongs, surprise lunch cookies, or convincing everyone to join a ridiculous river fashion show. When she’s not guiding she's kayaking. She is also the host of Safety First with Danger Tate, an interview series you can find on Gear Garage TV.
Tate Tomlinson on the Rogue River
