The Jarbidge originates on the remote border of Idaho and Nevada at the base of the Jarbidge Mountains. Spring run-off sends this creek size river into a frenzy of fast corners and big, technical whitewater. Surrounded by steep canyon walls and juniper forests, it tumbles about 50 ft. per mile creating one of the best whitewater runs in Idaho. Several sections are continuous class III – IV rapids with at least one portage at Jarbidge Falls. The rafting season here is strictly in May as we need the higher water to navigate the rafts. Given the remoteness and technical whitewater, we usually have the canyon all to ourselves. A great river trip for the whitewater enthusiast! We use 12′ oar boats with one guide and one guest to navigate the challenging whitewater. You won’t find a guide to guest ratio like this anywhere else, and the trip is limited to 6 guests.
The beautiful high desert plateau comes alive in early spring with delicate desert wildflowers and a wide array of whistling songbirds, birds of prey, bighorn sheep, mountain lions, baby goslings and coyote. There are great hiking and exploring opportunities along the way. Visit a natural arch, hike up to the canyon rim for a breathtaking vista, or lie down by the waters edge and watch the falcons and swifts fly over our heads. As we pass the confluence of the West fork of the Bruneau, we enter the narrow, red walled gorge. Stunning side canyons provide us the perfect afternoon outing and delicious dutch oven dinners around a campfire to relive our adventures. Five Mile Rapid is the grand finale.
- Wild whitewater
- Towering canyon walls
- Stunning vistas
- Intimate group sizes
- Great bird watching
- Desert wildlife
- Delicate wildflowers
