Lochsa Madness 2025: Cold Water, Big Rapids, and the Ride of My Life
I’d dreamed of rafting the Lochsa River for years—and dreaded it just as long.
I’ve driven alongside it on Highway 12, following the Lewis and Clark Trail through North Central Idaho. I’ve hiked across it on pack bridges. But rafting it? That felt like a whole different beast. I’ve run the Salmon River a few times and tackled Clear Creek in Colorado, but the Lochsa’s reputation for legendary rapids and frigid, snowmelt-fed water made me more than a little anxious.
A Bucket List Trip Comes Calling
When the opportunity came up over Memorial Day weekend—known as Lochsa Madness in rafting circles—to jump on a boat with ROW Adventures, I couldn’t say no. The forecast was clear skies and warm temps, the perfect contrast to the 40-something-degree water. Time to cross this one off the list.
Before we dive in (not literally, I hoped), here’s something you should know: There are a few great Class IV whitewater day-trips in the world, and in the U.S., the three most famous are the Gauley in West Virginia, the Tuolumne in California, and the Lochsa here in Idaho. Of those three, the Lochsa has the most whitewater miles—and it’s the one for bucket listers and adrenaline junkies alike.
Suited Up and Soaked In
We arrived at River Dance Lodge in Syringa for orientation and to suit up for our 20-mile, all-thrills rollercoaster ride. I pulled on a farmer john wetsuit, neoprene booties (with wool socks underneath), a neoprene jacket, fleece, and a splash jacket. Then topped it off with a PFD and helmet. I had officially become the Michelin Man, waddling toward the bus, where we learned during headcount that a good guide brings back the same number of guests. A great guide brings back the same guests.
Safety First, Rapids Second
At our Mile 129 put-in, we got a crash course in rafting safety—literally. Highlights included: what to do if your boat flips, how not to become a noodle in a strainer (a river hazard like a log jam that can trap swimmers), and the golden rule—never, ever, ever (EVER) stand up in the river. That’s how you get a foot stuck between rocks.
Fun fact: “Lochsa” is the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) word for “rough water.” Foreshadowing, anyone?
We were staring down 36 named rapids, including Log Jam, Tin Pin Alley (unlike in bowling, you don’t want to take down the pins), Grim Reaper, Bloody Mary, Termination, and the infamous 8-foot drop at Lochsa Falls. Deep breath. Feet jammed into the raft’s crevices. Paddle gripped. Heart pounding.
I nearly fell out on the first rapid but managed to tumble inward instead. Balance found, I began to sync with our raft crew and trusted our guide Alec, who steered us through crashing waves, boulders, and hydraulics with calm confidence.
Riverside Lunch on ROW Island
One thing ROW Adventures absolutely nails (besides not flipping your raft): lunch.
We pulled ashore at ROW Island, a quiet, scenic spot that let us soak in the surrounding wilderness. We munched on fresh fruit, veggies, and dip while recounting our morning victories. Then came the main event—pulled pork sandwiches grilled riverside, loaded with slaw and all the fixings. It was sloppy, satisfying perfection.
Into the G.O.A.T. Range
The second half of the journey would take us into the steepest, most technical stretch of river: the Black Canyon of the Lochsa, affectionately known as the G.O.A.T. Range—Greatest Of All Time.
Seven miles of rapid-fire whitewater, no breaks, no breathing room. Just wam-bam Class IV rapids one after the other. It felt like riding a bucking bronco through icy surf, and I could not stop smiling.
One raft flipped in the chaotic drop of Lochsa Falls. No injuries, just adrenaline—and a little teamwork as our boat retrieved three rogue oars and one grateful swimmer. It’s comforting to know you’re surrounded by experienced guides and fellow rafters who’ve got your back when things go sideways.
A Whitewater Addict Is Born
As we reached our take-out at Mile 109, I found myself wishing for one more rapid. Just one more heart-thumping, splash-soaked drop.
I realized then: I’m hooked. A total whitewater junkie.
Know Before You Go
The Lochsa season is short and sweet—mid-May to early July, about 5–6 weeks when the Bitterroot snowmelt feeds this wild river. You can book a single- day trip or go all-in on an overnight adventure.
Outfitter: ROW Adventures
Put-in: Mile 129, Lochsa River
Trip length: ~20 miles
Skill level: Adventurous beginners with a sense of humor and love for adrenaline up to expert
Whether you’re a first-timer like me or a seasoned river runner looking for the next thrill—just do it. The Lochsa is a trip of a lifetime.
