Whether you’re rowing your own boat on a multi-day adventure or paddling a raft with five strangers for a half-day float, whitewater rafting offers an adrenalin-packed adventure. For scenic and exciting rivers, look no further than your favorite ski town.
1. Deschutes River
Bend, Oregon
The most popular run near Bend, Big Eddy is a Class III rapid on the Upper Deschutes River. Sun Country Tours' Big Eddy Thriller puts in at the old logging camp of Aspen. You’ll paddle through scenic flatwater lined with towering Ponderosa pines and dramatic lava flows as you ease into some Class I and II rapids. Things get more exciting with Class III rapids like Kenmore (think washing machine) and Roller Coaster. Luckily, on river left, there is a large eddy to scout the upcoming rapids.
2. Snake River
Jackson, Wyoming
The Snake River threads through Jackson Hole from its headwater in Yellowstone to the mouth of the Snake River Canyon. The infamous Big Kahuna and Lunch Counter rapids prove the pinnacle of any float trip on the Snake River. In early June, Lunch Counter’s waves can reach nine feet in height. Sands Whitewater’s most-popular trip includes eight miles of scenic flatwater and wildlife spotting followed by eight miles of exciting whitewater.
3. Salmon River
Stanley, Idaho
North of Sun Valley about 60 miles, the historic town of Stanley is the gateway to Idaho’s famous Salmon River, which carves a spectacular canyon through the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness Area, the second largest protected wilderness in the contiguous United States. On the River Company’s six-hour trip, you’ll paddle Class II and III rapids like the Warm Springs Narrows, a .34-mile long stretch of exciting whitewater.
4. Clark Fork River
Missoula, Montana
The Clark Fork River, which flows through the heart of Missoula, boasts Montana’s best whitewater rafting. The Clark Fork cuts through a deep, scenic canyon and offers Class II-III thrills, including fun wave trains. Montana River Guides lead four-hour trips through 12 scenic miles.
5. Arkansas River
Vail, Colorado