LOWER OWYHEE RAFTING ADVENTURE

Itinerary:

Getting Here: Please plan to fly into Boise the day before our trip departs. We typically will meet in Jordan Valley the evening before we launch, although sometimes we can meet people in Boise the afternoon before the trip. Here we can answer any last minute questions and introduce you to the guides and other guests.

Day 1: Early in the morning, we'll make the short drive from Jordan Valley to the launch site in Rome, Oregon. Here we have a thorough safety orientation before beginning our whitewater trip. The first day on the river is relaxing and a great time for everyone to learn to paddle, or get acquainted with the inflatable kayaks. We travel through about seven miles of irrigated desert farms, navigating braided channels and observing abundant bird life. A delicious lunch served on a sandy beach offers us our first taste of the next few days on the water.

As we enter the Owyhee canyon in the afternoon, our guides share colorful stories of the history of the canyon and its inhabitants. We usually arrive at camp in the late afternoon. Our camps are typically on sandy beaches with access to spectacular hiking trails. Our camp crew has already set up camp and done all the work, so there is plenty of time to explore the canyon, fish for rainbow trout and bass, play horseshoes or bocce ball, or just relax in camp.

Appetizers and a delicious dinner are served in the evening. Following dinner, we continue to unwind and begin to enter into the flow of the trip—something we call “river time.” Dessert is always baked fresh in our Dutch ovens, and the night ends with warm companionship and a sky full of brilliant stars. (L, D...NWV Camp)

Days 2-4: These days follow the same general pattern as Day 1. After breakfast, we return to the river and continue our downstream journey. Each day features numerous rapids (mostly Class III with an occasional Class IV), several planned stops and amazing scenery. During the trip, we have the chance to stop at two hot springs and soak away any spring chills. If the water levels are right, we even camp next to one of the hot springs!

Adventurous spirits looking for a little more excitement may choose to paddle in our inflatable kayaks during the day, following the guides through the rapids. With each day, we find the river slowly seeps further and further into our soul. With each night, we become more relaxed and more in touch with our surroundings. (B, L, D...NWV Camp)

Last Day of Trip: After reaching the beginning of the Owyhee Reservoir, we hook up our small motor and travel the last few miles on the reservoir before reaching our take-out at Leslie Gulch. After loading the boats and equipment, we begin the drive out of the Owyhee canyon and back to civilization. (B, L)

Download Detailed Description & Itinerary Files

• Lower Owyhee Rafting Adventure Detailed Trip Info 2010.pdf