Best Idaho Rafting Trips by Category
Rafting the Bruneau River in Southwestern Idaho
Best 4-6 day Wilderness Trips
There’s nothing better than disconnecting for a few days immersed in nature while exploring some of the United States’ most majestic waterways. Our wilderness-focused trips in Idaho take in the state’s stunning natural scenery, from the deep gorge of Hells Canyon to the striking desert landscapes of the Bruneau River.
Explore one of the least-populated regions in the lower 48 states on a journey down the Owyhee, one of the country’s best-kept whitewater rafting secrets. Or venture into the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness on an unforgettable adventure down the Middle Fork of the Salmon River.
Rafting through Wild Sheep Rapid on the Snake River through Hells Canyon
Best Whitewater Trips
Experience Idaho’s best rapids on these action-packed trips, which take in some of the most exhilarating whitewater the state has to offer. Over the course of one or several days, you’ll encounter Class III and IV rapids, making them ideal for eager rafters who aren’t worried about getting wet.
You can get your adrenalin pumping on the continuous, explosive rapids of the Lochsa River or brave some of the biggest whitewater rafting rapids in the Pacific Northwest on the Snake River. The Bruneau offers exciting Class IV rapids amidst breathtaking desert scenery in Idaho’s south while the Middle Fork of the Salmon is a legendary whitewater destination that needs no introduction.
- Lochsa River - See what class rapids are on the Lochsa river here!
- Snake River through Hells Canyon
- Bruneau River
- Middle Fork Salmon River
Family on ROW Adventures Family Magic Rafting trip on the Salmon River Canyons
Best Family Trips
While Idaho is famed for its thrilling whitewater waterways, it’s also home to gentler stretches of river that are ideal for adventure-seeking families. They combine Class II, III, and IV rapids with spectacular scenery and a whole lot of fun as you bond with your nearest and dearest.
Swim and splash beside pristine beaches on a journey down the Salmon River Canyons, with kids as young as five welcome to join the “River Jester” on this entertaining trip. Or discover Idaho’s Native American heritage on a family-friendly experience rafting the Snake River, which boasts some of the most exciting rapids in the Pacific Northwest.
Group rafting down the St. Joe River in Northern Idaho
Best 1-2 Day Trips
If you only have a day or two up your sleeve, that doesn’t mean you can’t experience the thrill or beauty of Idaho’s whitewater rivers. Immerse yourself in some of the state’s most stunning wilderness areas during action-packed trips designed for beginner, intermediate, and experienced rafters.
Brave the fast, technical, and explosive rapids of the Lochsa River or marvel at the crystal clear waters and thick cedar forests along the St. Joe. You can discover a secluded and little-known canyon along the Moyie River or journey into neighboring Montana on a thrilling one-day trip down the Clark Fork.
Walk and wade fly fishing in the Coeur d'Alene River
Best Fishing Trips
For some rafters, being on the water is not just about the epic rapids and breathtaking scenery but being able to hook their own dinner and feast riverside. On select trips, there are opportunities to pause and cast a line while satisfying your angler urges.
In Idaho’s panhandle, you can fish for cutthroat trout during a rafting trip down the St. Joe River or enjoy catch-and-release fishing for rainbow and bull trout on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. ROW Adventures also offers fly-fishing trips on the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River that are ideal for beginners and experts alike.
Bighorn sheep spotted from the Snake River through Hells Canyon
Best Trips for Wildlife
Home to grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, and mountain lions, Idaho’s wilderness areas are a paradise for animal lovers. A whitewater rafting trip is one of the best ways to get up close to these awe-inspiring creatures in their natural habitat, along with a huge diversity of native birdlife.
Whether you’re journeying through the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River or rafting beneath the sheer-walled canyons of the Bruneau, there are incredible wildlife sightings on offer. From eagles and falcons soaring above to beavers busy at work, our rafting trips showcase the diverse beauty of Mother Nature.
