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Rafting & Kayaking

Whitewater Rafting & Kayaking in Idaho

Did you know? The St. Joe River lays claim as the world’s highest navigable river.

Rafting & Kayaking

Did you know? A journey down the Middle Fork of the Salmon River is one of the most coveted river trips in the country. Its 100+ miles of free-flowing river, more than 350 runnable rapids and jaw-dropping scenery keep adventurers coming back for more.

Rafting & Kayaking
Rafting & Kayaking

CLASS I: Fast-moving water with occasional light surface movement. Few obstructions.

Rafting & Kayaking

CLASS II: Rapids with small waves; mostly clear and open passages but some maneuvering may be required.

Rafting & Kayaking

CLASS III: Numerous and irregular waves; maneuvering required through clear but sometimes narrow passages.

Rafting & Kayaking

CLASS IV: Turbulent water. Strong, long rapids and high waves. Skilled and persistent maneuvering required.

Rafting & Kayaking

CLASS V: Long stretches of powerful and tumultuous rapids, obstructions requiring skilled maneuvering; steep gradients, big drops and violent currents.

Rafting & Kayaking

CLASS VI: Can be extremely dangerous; require great skill and stamina; navigable only when conditions allow.

A group goes whitewater rafting in helmets across the South Fork of the Payette River as rapids rush and splash around them.
Whitewater rafting trip, South Fork of the Payette River, near Garden Valley. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Did you know? Idaho is home to 3,100+ navigable whitewater river miles—more than any other state in the Lower 48. This means you’ll find river adventures to suit every skill level across the state.

A group of people paddling kayaks on Round Lake, and a forest of tall trees in the background.
Rafting & Kayaking
Rafting & Kayaking

Safety Equipment

When working with a licensed guide or outfitter, safety gear, from life jackets to helmets, will be provided. No packing necessary!

Rafting & Kayaking

Waterproof Sunscreen

Make sure to reapply that waterproof sunscreen in between splashes (and keep that SPF lip balm at the ready).

Rafting & Kayaking

Sun Hat/Baseball Cap

You’re going to want a hat in any shape or form to shield yourself from the sun.

Rafting & Kayaking

Sunglasses

When recreating on the water, make sure you bring some polarized shades (along with a strap, so they don’t get lost) to protect against the sun reflecting off the water.

Rafting & Kayaking

Water

Hydration is key while out in the sun. When recreating outdoors, even on the waves, make sure you have plenty of water to drink.

Rafting & Kayaking

Insect Repellent

Ward off any unwanted river bugs— pack that spray. Wait for your waterproof sunscreen to dry for 15 to 20 minutes, then apply evenly on any exposed skin and atop clothing.

Rafting & Kayaking

Swimsuit/Swim Shorts

In summer months, wear swimwear or quick-drying clothes on the river for the greatest comfort. Rafting or kayaking during cooler weather? Wearing a base layer or water-repellent outer layer is ideal. A guide or outfitter will often provide outer layers like dry suits ahead of your adventure.

Rafting & Kayaking

Dry Clothes/Towel

After your invigorating kayaking or whitewater rafting trip, you’ll be glad you brought along a fresh set of clothes and a towel.

Did you know? Idaho is home to one of the most impressive canyons in the U.S. Hells Canyon plunges 2,000 feet deeper than the Grand Canyon.

Rafting & Kayaking
Rafting & Kayaking
Rafting & Kayaking
Rafting & Kayaking
A snapshot of a smiling family, kids joyfully hanging their legs out of the raft on a whitewater rafting trip in Idaho. The text reads, Take With You: Breathless Memories, Leave Behind: Nothing But Wonder. >
A man kayaks across the water in Thousand Springs State Park as the water cascades from an elevated height of lush green landscape behind him. The graphic text reads, 1) Find Your Guide, 2) Get Your Gear, 3) Step In and Ride. >
A group places their red rafting paddles together in a cheers of excitement as they raft down the Lochsa River, rocks in a tower behind them as waves crash beneath them. The text on the graphic reads, Be a Good Sport on the River, featuring a hand that signals, Travel With Care. >