Whitewater Rafting
The Wild & Scenic Lochsa River is navigable only during the short, high-water season, which typically runs from end of April through mid-June.
Whitewater Rafting on the Lochsa River
The Lochsa River is legendary among whitewater enthusiasts, known for its intense rapids and never-dammed, untamed beauty. Each spring, snowmelt from the mountains surges into the river, creating ideal conditions for a short but thrilling rafting season. In May and June, high water levels transform the Lochsa into a churning force of nature, with Class III and IV rapids that challenge even the most experienced rafters. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, there’s no better place to experience the raw power of whitewater rafting than the Lochsa.
What to Expect
Prepare to get wet, laugh, and feel your heart race as you navigate the Lochsa’s thrilling rapids. From roaring drops to quick turns, this river promises a wild ride. Even in early summer, the river can be chilly, so be sure to dress in layers and bring along some extra warmth for after your ride. Most importantly, bring an adventurous spirit!
Guides
Navigating the Lochsa’s intense waters with an experienced guide can make all the difference. We highly recommend booking your rafting adventure with one of the area’s expert guides, who not only know the river inside and out but also prioritize your safety. View our suggested companies below.
Lochsa River Water Data
One of the most important things to consider before embarking on a whitewater rafting adventure is the water data of the river you will be rafting on.
Water data includes information about the river’s water level, flow rate, and temperature. This information is crucial for assessing the difficulty of the rapids and the potential risks involved in rafting them.
Follow this link to stay informed on the Lochsa River’s water levels.Â
Happy rafting!
Recommended River Guides
Three Rivers Rafting
The Lochsa River of North Central Idaho is one of the premier whitewater rivers in the West. Snow melt in the spring creates one of the wettest rides in the country! We offer you the opportunity to experience 20+ miles of intense Class IV+ whitewater in a guided paddle raft. Our guide staff is the best, most experienced Lochsa team in the world today, many of which have over 15 years of experience with this river and our company. We provide a delicious, homemade, hot lunch, all the gear you will need, and complimentary photos of your adventure.
ROW Adventures
No matter which Idaho rafting trip you choose, ROW Adventures offers you a journey that goes beyond the water. While you spend plenty of days riding rapids, you also experience some of the country’s best wilderness, witness wildlife, soak in secluded natural hot springs and wade through history with Native American petroglyphs and pioneer homesteads off the beaten path. You’ll also enjoy staying in comfortable camps under the stars, indulging in delicious camp cooking and relaxing with other activities such as fishing.
Mammoth river adventures
Mammoth River Adventures is a premier guide service offering outfitted whitewater rafting and riverboarding trips on the Lochsa River in the Selway Bitterroot Wilderness of Idaho. The Lochsa River is known for its powerful and continuous rapids making for an unforgettable whitewater rafting experience. Mammoth River Adventures provides the gear, shuttles, professional guides, and a hot riverside lunch. Make your next adventure MAMMOTH on the Lochsa River.
Lewis & Clark Trail Adventures
When history buff and river aficionado Wayne Fairchild set out to make a profession out of his passion in 1989, he was lit by the same fires as the namesakes of his burgeoning company. And since that day, Lewis & Clark Trail Adventures has been unrivaled in connecting modern travelers to the spirit of adventure embodied by Lewis & Clark. (Excerpt from Lewis & Clark Trail Adventures Website)
Zoo Town Surfers
Folks, whitewater rafting on the Lochsa River does not disappoint! Just ask the owner of Zoo Town Surfers, who loves to tell guests about his favorite rapids while rafting with you. Be sure to ask Ian (owner) where his favorite spots on the river are. Zoo Town Surfers have been in business 20+ years. Book your best Lochsa River trip today and experience Class IV whitewater at its finest. (Excerpt from Zoo Town Surfers Website)