Basics
- Location:
- Southwest Idaho and Eastern Oregon
- River:
- Owyhee River
- Class:
- Class II - V
- River Length
- 40 to 120 miles
- Time:
- 4 to 7 days
- Season:
- April through May
Description
The South Fork and the East Fork of the Owyhee both run through dramatic desert canyons, tumbling down from the northern Nevada high country. Wildlife is frequently seen, as is evidence of the ancient Native American inhabitants of the region. Cabins and mining equipment from the gold rush of the 1800s can also be seen in this isolated area.
The upper Owyhee has a very brief season during the spring run-off. Farther downstream in Oregon, the river is milder and open longer. Other nearby rivers through similar terrain are the Bruneau and the Jarbridge. There are no communities near the Upper Owyhee, but Boise is where many outfitters are based and is a few hours’ drive to the north.