Experience Idaho’s natural wonders from its famous rivers.
Idaho’s rivers are alive with 3,100 miles of navigable whitewater to raft or paddle, and many more to simply float through and soak in the wondrous landscape.
Rafting and paddling adventures are often a short drive from Idaho’s major cities and quaint mountain towns. Most of them offer whitewater up to Class III in peak season, with opportunities to chase stronger or calmer rapids. Below you’ll find some of the most popular whitewater stretches featured in “The 3100” video series.
River Locations
Payette
Boise is your ticket to several sections of the Payette. The Main Payette River can range from Class III rapids to warmer water for swimming. The South Fork of the Payette is known for its pristine snowmelt waters and canyon walls, which make for challenging rapids. Further down, paddlers seeking different levels of adventure can find a mix of whitewater and sightseeing to get a see-it-all experience.
Snake
Twins Falls lands you close to the Hagerman section of the Snake River with plenty of Class II rafting opportunities that bottom out in Hagerman Canyon. The nearby Murtaugh stretch is another destination with under-the-radar river runs.
Further down is Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest canyon. The route to the bottom is a rush of whitewater, featuring some of the biggest rapids in the Pacific Northwest. Hells Canyon can be accessed from the communities of Lewiston, White Bird, and Council.
Selway
Known for its challenging rapids and pristine solitude, the Selway River is among the highest quality stretches of whitewater in the nation. Its whitewater season is short, usually mid-May through July, and the limited number of launch permits makes this a highly-coveted whitewater experience.
Salmon
The Main Salmon is a bucket list destination for river adventurers seeking the splash of Class III and IV rapids with easier whitewater and calm pools for relaxing breaks. Part of the appeal is the large sandy beaches that make for great camps. They’re often adjacent to calm eddies for swimming and close to trails to wander the rest of the canyon.
The sprawling beaches along the canyons of the Lower Salmon River are accessible via whitewater rafting with any of the several outfitters operating nearby.
Bruneau
The Bruneau rushes through steep canyon corridors, creating powerful rapids to challenge paddlers and reward them with unmatched, isolated beauty. Rafters can enjoy a narrow, tunnel-like journey amidst hidden geological features along the river's shores.
The Lochsa & St. Joe Rivers
Combined, these two rivers represent some of Idaho's most secluded whitewater, running through deep forest. The Lochsa is a thrill seeker's delight, known for its Class IV rapids and big drops with forgiving pools that let paddlers reset. In contrast, the St. Joe is narrower and more technical for rafters, with fast descents followed by more playful whitewater.
The best way to experience Idaho’s whitewaters is with a guide. Outfitters offer rafting trips of all kinds for all ages and abilities.
These licensed experts not only help row rafts or lead guests in paddling their own, but they can take care of all the other logistics, too. In most cases, they provide tents to set up along the river and waterproof gear bags. They can also cook all the meals and provide fresh foods, including salads and fruits. Save room for Dutch-oven baked breads and desserts, too.
Raft Idaho is an excellent resource to plan a trip and find an outfitter based on a destination river or city, and sort opportunities by trip length and whitewater difficulty.
Check out “The 3100” docuseries to feel the rush and learn more about Idaho's whitewater adventures.
For multiday river trips, food and lodging are provided alongside the river. But if you want a good night's sleep before a rafting trip or want to explore more of Idaho’s natural and cultural sights, you’ll find a range of lodging options. Larger cities will have hotels, both large and boutique, while more remote areas offer cabins or ranch stays to immerse yourself in Idaho's Western vibes.
While some hotels offer dining on site, be sure to spend a little time soaking up the local feel. You’ll find restaurants, breweries, cideries, and other attractions around most towns. Idaho is also home to more than 65 wineries, which make a nice detour on a slower-paced day.
In summer, stop into a farmers' market to enjoy the freshest produce and local treats. Idaho is famous for its potatoes, but you’ll find seasonal menus with local delicacies like white sturgeon caviar, morels, and huckleberries.
Idaho's Waters are Gateways to Adventure
Idaho’s rivers shape its landscape and culture, with thrilling activities like paddling and whitewater rafting attracting visitors in the summer. Both are great ways to explore the state and enjoy its natural beauty. Along the way, you can make camp and hike nearby trails, or rub elbows with the locals in town. Come see what Idaho has to offer and why so many return.
Idaho’s Iconic Rivers: A Paddling & Whitewater Paradise
Idaho's 3,100 miles of navigable whitewater is an adrenaline-pumping way to explore the Whitewater Capital of the United States.
If you've ever dreamed of floating through breathtaking landscapes, Idaho's iconic rivers offer a memorable and exciting experience for all skill levels. Whether you want to raft, paddle, float, or jet boat, there’s a river and an outfitter ready for you.
The 3100 Video Series Puts Idaho’s Whitewater in the Limelight
Visit Idaho launched its “The 3100” immersive video series to show off the state’s 3,100 miles of navigable whitewater. It’s a great introduction to the varied ways to interact with the state’s rivers and wilderness. From rushing rapids to calm eddies, the rivers are a true gateway to seeing Idaho’s natural beauty and culture.
