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
Stretching across three states, Nevada, Idaho, and Oregon, the Owyhee is an extremely remote desert river that has been called "Oregon's Grand Canyon." Starting in the high mountains of northern Nevada, the Owyhee heads north through Idaho before cutting west into Oregon, where it travels for a few hundred miles before joining the snake on the Idaho border. While there are several sections of the Owyhee frequently rafted in Oregon, Idaho’s segments are famous for their utter remoteness and intense whitewater action.
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.
River Details
Setting:
Desert canyons
Class:
Class II - V
River Length
40 to 120 miles
Time
4 to 7 days
Season:
April through May
Guides Available?
Yes
