Discovering the Lochsa River: An Adventurer’s Paradise
We have guests that book rafting trips on the Lochsa River year after year. Our Lochsa guests ebb and flow like the river: some folks are just starting a multi-year “Lochsa Run” and for others, the run is coming to an end. It always amazes me how this river brings so many folks together each year, congregating at all the popular spots like Wilderness Gateway, Fish Creek, Split Creek, and Lowell, ID. The Lochsa boasts cold, clear water, towering wilderness, and cedar trees that hover over the river. In short: it’s a badass place. No matter what draws you to the Lochsa River, it’s that connection to the river that brings us all together each spring. Here are 5 can’t-miss Lochsa River things to do on your next adventure.
Most folks come to enjoy the thrill of the rapids. The Lochsa’s world-class rapids overshadow so many other amazing features in the river corridor. Perhaps you’ve already floated the Lochsa and never noticed the spectacular creeks, side hikes, camping, and waterfalls in the area.
Hiking and Exploring Nearby Trails
Here are a few things that you might have missed on your last trip or something new to look forward to.
Fish Creek Butte Trail
Have you ever waited for hours at Fish Creek for your raft/kayak buddies to show up? Well, next time you have some time to kill, get your legs moving and do a quick hike. You head up Fish Creek and hang your first left at the bridge (Trail #223). Once you start hiking, you will come to a junction. Keep going uphill, as the other trail goes along the river. Hike until you get to a nice overlook. From there, you can get a nice overhead view of all the action taking place down at Fish Creek and the Lochsa River.
Historic Lochsa Ranger Station
This ranger station is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The station is full of history and there are plenty of old photos and literature that illustrate what this place was like years ago. A visit to the ranger station is a great way to get connected to the area.
Stanley Hot Springs
This primitive hot spring is a 6-mile hike in from Wilderness Gateway campground. It’s not recommended to do this hike during the peak of spring runoff, as you will have to cross Boulder Creek at high water. Try to do this adventure before spring runoff or during the hot summer months. Trail #211 is located right before you get to C loop in the campground.
Horsetail Falls
Horsetail Falls is one of the more technical rapids on the Lochsa River. Because river runners are so focused on the run, the falls itself is many times overlooked. At Mile 114.8, if you look river left, there is a beautiful waterfall. You can access the falls via kayak or raft by pulling out on the river left, just above the rapid.
Selway Falls
Selway Falls is a magnificent sight at any time of year. It’s a cauldron of whitewater and siphons. Bring some cold beverages and have fun discussing “what if” scenarios if you were to one day choose to run this rapid. From Lowell, cross the Lochsa River and drive about 19 miles up the Selway River.
Read this actual account of a Lochsa River Guide’s activities. Rafting Idaho’s whitewater river is a both a passion and hard, rewarding work! Follow along with this story from our guide:
It’s still dark when I open the rain fly. Six thirty. I swear I just walked away from the hot fire and cold drinks to pass out happily by the rushing river.
Morning Preparations: Assembling the Crew and River Equipment
Quietly, we round up the crew and head downriver. We have two hours to get everything in place before the guests show up. The team breaks off into individual tasks, some fill and rig rafts while others count helmets and life vests. It’s always a guessing game sitting in Lochsa country. No cell service. No way to change the plan.
Coffee is consumed rapidly in between stacking rafts higher than a bus or piling paddles into the trailer. What looks like chaos to the few guests that show up early to watch “guide TV” all flows smoothly together as the rest of the cars start to show up. The essential gear is handed out and the bad jokes start to roll. You can feel the excitement and anxiety pouring off the paddlers. Many have never been whitewater rafting before. I play the role of comedian, teacher, and, of course, guide.
The bus ride is filled with questions and stories of river trips past. The boat ramp is a flurry of work as the rafts get shoved in the water and pumped full. The PFDs are snugged tight and the helmet cams are rolling. The work’s not done for the day yet but for the next few hours, everyone that worked hard all morning gets to enjoy the thing that brought us all together. The river.
On the River: Immersed in Nature and Adventure
The miles flow by quickly. A hot lunch is much needed on cold water trips. We prep and cook as guests lounge in the sun or crowd around the heater in the rain, reliving the trip this morning. Service with a smile, and usually a bad joke or two. The dishes are washed and ready for the next day, we load up for the final 10 miles of river.
Post-Raft Rituals: Take-Out Procedures and Gear Cleanup
The takeout is the same flurry in reverse: restack the rafts, collect the helmets and vests, and load them back into the bus. While the guests revel in the glory of a day on the mighty Lochsa, the guides get to work. Gotta wash and hang dry all the gear and get it sized and put back in place for the next day.
The rafts deflated and the sun hanging low in the sky, we head back upriver to our fire and cold beverages. Six thirty is gonna come quickly tomorrow and I couldn’t be happier about it. A day In The Life of a Lochsa River Guide is a gift. Thank you for joining us.
If you’re planning a Lochsa River trip, you’re in for an epic adventure along one of North America’s most legendary wild and scenic rivers. Whether you’re chasing world-class whitewater or a peaceful night under the stars, proper planning is key to making the most of your journey. Lochsa River trip preparation will help you have the most fun, stay safe and navigate the river and camp like a pro.
About the Lochsa River
The Lochsa River in north-central Idaho is a free-flowing, undammed river known for its exhilarating early spring whitewater. Expect a mix of rain, sleet, snow, and occasional sunshine on any given day. With unpredictable conditions, thorough preparation ensures you’re ready for whatever the river throws your way.
Before the Trip Up Highway 12
Fuel Up
Gas: The Lochsa is in a remote area with limited fuel options. Fill up your tank in Lolo, MT, or Kooskia, ID, as there is no gas available between Lochsa Lodge and Kooskia.
Stock Up on Supplies
Food: Shop for groceries in Lowell, ID, before you arrive. Consider bringing pre- and post-trip snacks. Also, check out Ryan’s Wilderness Inn café in Lowell for a local dining option.
Beer: Pack extra beer—don’t risk running out in the middle of nowhere. Extra is better than regret!
Personal Essentials: Bring any personal items you need, as you’ll be largely self-reliant on the river.
River Camp Comfort
Camping Comforts: For an enjoyable overnight stay, remember to pack:
Firewood, coffee, and a French press
Camp chairs and a pop-up tent/tarp
Yard games like cornhole or horseshoes
Rain gear and warm, dry clothing
During The Idaho River Trip
Dress for Success
Layer Up: Wear a base layer of Capilene, merino wool, or polypro under your wetsuit. Avoid bulky layers that might bunch up and hinder warmth.
Capture the Adventure
Camera/GoPro: Bring your camera or GoPro and consider helmet mounts to capture all the action. Keep your selfie game strong!
Stay Energized While On The River
Snacks: Pack plenty of snacks—you’ll need energy for every twist and turn on the river.
After The River Trip
Warm Up and Unwind
Warm/Dry Clothes: After a day on the river, nothing beats slipping into warm, dry clothes. Add a cozy hat to your post-trip kit for extra comfort.
Be Prepared Financially
Extra Cash: In remote areas, cash is king. Keep paper bills handy for tips, trades, or even a friendly wager during campyard games.
Hydration is Key On The Water
Water First, Then Beer: Rehydrate with water after your river adventure before enjoying a celebratory beer.
By following these tips for Lochsa River trip preparation, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the river and savor every moment of this unique adventure. Enjoy the ride and stay safe!
Don’t miss your chance to experience the thrill of the Lochsa River with Zoo Town Surfers! With a season lasting only 1.5 months, time is limited to enjoy this incredible waterway.
In this blog, we share 6 great reasons why rafting with Zoo Town Surfers is an adventure you shouldn’t miss. Whether you’re chasing non-stop whitewater action, looking for expert guides, or just want to relax and enjoy a tasty meal on the river, we have something for everyone.
Introduction to Lochsa River Rafting
Rafting on the Lochsa River is an experience like no other. This river spans 30 miles and features over 40 named rapids, offering everything from gentle flows to heart-pounding whitewater. Here’s what makes the Lochsa special:
Unique Adventure: The river is known for its mix of challenging rapids, stunning scenery, and a rich history that makes every trip memorable.
Limited Season: With a short season of only 1.5 months, every trip counts. There’s no time to waste when you have the chance to paddle on one of the most exciting rivers around.
At Zoo Town Surfers, we combine expert guidance with first-hand experience to make sure you get the best out of every trip. We know the river inside out, and our passion for rafting shines through in every adventure we lead.
#1: Non-Stop Whitewater Action
Rafting the Lochsa is all about experiencing the rush of whitewater.
Understanding the Rapids
Variety of Rapids: The Lochsa features a mix of rapids, with names like Ten Pin, Grim Reaper, and Bloody Mary setting the stage for an exciting journey. Each rapid has its own character, ensuring that no two trips are exactly alike.
Adrenaline Rush: Navigating challenging rapids like Lochsa Falls and House Rapid gives you a real thrill. The whitewater action is designed to get your heart pumping and leave you with an adrenaline rush that lasts long after the trip.
First-Hand Experience
Guest Testimonials: Many of our guests return because they simply can’t get enough of the unmatched whitewater experience. Their stories and first-hand experiences speak volumes about the quality and excitement of our trips.
Expert Navigation: With our seasoned guides at the helm, you’ll learn how to tackle each rapid safely and confidently, ensuring that you enjoy every moment on the water.
#2: Our Lochsa Guides
Unforgettable rapids deserve unforgettable guides, and at Zoo Town Surfers, our team is among the best.
Experienced and Passionate Guides
Seasoned Professionals: Our guides are not new to the river. Each one brings at least three years of full-time commercial guiding experience to the table, with many having spent 15 to 20 seasons on the Lochsa alone.
Love for the River: Their deep passion for the Lochsa means they are more than just guides—they are storytellers and mentors who share the history and secrets of the river.
Beyond the Basics
Exceptional Service: Our guides go above and beyond to ensure you have a fantastic time. They’re skilled, entertaining, and always ready with a good story, making your trip both safe and fun.
Personal Touch: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, our guides tailor the experience to your needs. They know how to adjust the adventure so that everyone feels comfortable and engaged.
#3: Zoo Town Surfers Safety
Safety is our top priority at Zoo Town Surfers, ensuring that your adventure is as secure as it is exhilarating.
Comprehensive Training
Rigorous Programs: We have a strict training program with a heavy emphasis on safety both on and off the water. Our team undergoes regular, multi-day training sessions where we study the river, perfect our communication, and practice rescue scenarios.
Highly Skilled Guides: Our guides are not only experienced but are also continuously trained to handle any situation that might arise on the water.
Safety Measures in Action
On-Water Safety: Every trip is supported by safety boats and strict protocols to ensure that you are always in good hands.
Team Approach: Our entire crew operates as a tight-knit team. From pre-trip briefings to post-trip debriefings, safety is woven into every aspect of our operation, giving you peace of mind as you enjoy the ride.
#4: High End Rafting Gear
At Zoo Town Surfers, we invest in the highest quality equipment so that you can focus on the fun and excitement of rafting.
Top-of-the-Line Equipment
Quality Rafts and Apparel: We use premium rafts from AIRE Inflatables and the best apparel from NRS. This means you’re always riding in gear that’s built to last and perform at its best.
Meticulous Maintenance: Our equipment is carefully maintained and stored, ensuring that everything is in peak condition every time you step on board.
Stress-Free River Adventure
No Hassle: When you book with us, you don’t have to worry about prepping your gear. We take care of everything—from airing up the raft to transporting it—so you can simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery and exhilarating whitewater.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that you’re using high-quality, reliable equipment lets you relax and focus on having a great time on the river.
#5: Epic River Meal
Good food is an essential part of any adventure, and our epic river meal is one of the best reasons to raft with us.
Handcrafted Meals
From Scratch: All our food is handmade from scratch, ensuring that every bite is fresh and delicious. Whether you’re a meat-lover or a vegan, our meals are designed to please.
Local Favorites: Our famous BBQ pork and homemade BBQ sauce have even tempted some vegans to give in for just one day! A hearty, hot riverside lunch at our private camp keeps your energy high for the second half of the trip.
Dining with a View
Riverside Experience: Enjoy your meal while soaking in the stunning views of the river. Eating outdoors, surrounded by nature, adds a unique charm to your rafting adventure.
Recharge and Relax: A good meal helps you recharge, making sure you’re ready to tackle the big rapids later in the day.
#6: Our Customer Service On The River
We pride ourselves on offering the best customer service around, ensuring that every guest feels welcome and well-cared for.
Customized Experiences
Tailored Trips: Whether you want a custom trip or a standard adventure, we’ll match you with the guide that fits your style—whether you prefer a big, bold adventure or a more relaxed, scenic route.
Personal Attention: Have questions? Need advice on which trip is right for you? Our team is always ready to help. A quick phone call can set you on the right path, ensuring your experience is perfectly tailored to your needs.
Ongoing Support: From the moment you inquire to the end of your adventure, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our commitment to customer service means you can focus on having fun while we handle the details.
Vacation in Missoula, whoo-hoo! Welcome! We are so glad you’re here. Whether you are trekking to Missoula for the first time, make a yearly trip, or are a long-time local, we have a trip that will fit every group and every adventure level. Whitewater rafting near Missoula is guaranteed to make your stay more enjoyable, especially on the hottest of days! Rafting in Missoula is one of the absolute best activities you can do on vacation. Read on to get the insider scoop on options for whitewater rafting near Missoula.
Zoo Town Surfers River Trips
Zoo Town Surfers has a variety of river trips for all skill levels. If you want something with a bit less adrenaline, we have some fantastic options for you to float through some incredible scenery and experience the area in a new way. Our Scenic and Town Floats provide a wonderful opportunity to experience the area from its incredible rivers.
Missoula Whitewater Rafting & Floats
Missoula rafting is the best! There is no shortage of whitewater rafting near Missoula. Whether you want a fun adventure for the whole family, a whitewater experience close to Missoula, or an action-packed thrill ride, we have incredible options for you! The Alberton Gorge of the Clark Fork River has big, fun, splashy waves, plenty of spaces to swim and relax, and unforgettable scenery.
Now that the water level is dropping the Alberton Gorge becomes the picturesque Montana adventure that every family dreams about. The cool thing is that your raft guide can “pick their line” and customize the trip for your family’s adventure level preferences. What we mean by this is that we can either minimize the rapids experience for you or ramp it up if you want to get an adrenaline rush or two.
Do you already know that you prefer a higher level of adventure? We highly suggest you raft with us in early spring on the Lochsa! The Lochsa River in Idaho is just a bit further south, about two hours, and it will not leave you disappointed. Come prepared to paddle, eat fantastic homemade BBQ, and experience the paddle of a lifetime on one of America’s best roadside whitewater day trips. The Lochsa features Class III & IV rapids, which is the highlight of the trip. A close second? The absolutely delicious homemade BBQ lunch we feed you! No joke, it’s often mentioned by guests as a reason to come back.
Rafting Adventures Near Missoula
The Alberton Gorge
Rafting with kids? Newer to rafting? Bachelor Party? Unsure if whitewater is right for you? The Alberton Gorge on the Clark Fork River is a fantastic place to start! There is a lot of adventure to this river, but what makes it so great is that we can customize the experience for you. During the summer months the Gorge, as we call it, the water levels go down and the fun factor ramps up! This means that you get to enjoy sunshine & splashy rapids with lower intensity. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your group’s needs with your guide so that they can pick lines that match with your adventure preferences.
For context, The Alberton Gorge on the Clark Fork River (near Missoula) features Class II and Class III rapids.This means:
Class II (Novice): These rapids have straightforward, clear channels and wide, clear passages. They might have some medium-sized waves but are generally easy to navigate with basic paddling skills. You have a raft guide which helps a lot, too!
Class III (Intermediate): These rapids are more challenging, with moderate, irregular waves which makes for an exciting, rollercoaster-like experience. They often have eddies and stronger currents, demanding better boat control and some experience in whitewater rafting. Eddy is the calm area by the way!
Overall, the Alberton Gorge provides an exciting but manageable rafting experience suitable for intermediate rafters and adventurous beginners with some guidance. Plus, it’s a favorite of our guides!
Alberton Gorge Trip Facts
The Alberton Gorge is known as a pool-and-drop, so you will have plenty of time between the rapids to swim and relax in the sun. In rafting, ‘pool and drop’ is a term used to describe a river characterized by a repeating pattern of calm, deep pools followed by short, steep drops or rapids. This pattern makes for a great rafting experience!
Pool: The pool is a calm, slow-moving, and deep section of the river. These areas allow for a moment of rest, making them ideal for regrouping and preparing for the next set of rapids. Pools are generally safe and provide an opportunity to enjoy the scenery and revel in the excitement of the previous rapid. This is also where you can take photos and laugh with your loved ones.
Drop: The drop refers to the steep, fast-moving section of the river where the water cascades down over rocks and creates rapids. Drops can vary in difficulty from mild to very challenging, depending on the gradient of the riverbed and the volume of water. Your guide will use skillful navigation on the rapids and they are often the most exciting parts of the rafting trip.
The “pool and drop” pattern can make a river both enjoyable and predictable for rafters. This type of river is commonly found in mountainous regions where the riverbed has a varied gradient, leading to alternating calm and rapid sections.
Lunch Option: On the Gorge we serve our homemade Chicken Bahn Mi sandwich on locally made Le Petite Baguettes. It’s SO tasty, even more so when you’ve been paddling in the sun! Whew, I’m hungry just thinking about this!
Trip Length: We have Alberton Gorge trips ranging from 3-6 hours depending on water flows, so we can get you back to Missoula for your next adventure and fit most folks’ timeframes! You can call us to discus the perfect trip for you. Check out our town trips if you want something in the 1-2 hour range!
Whitewater Rafting Near Missoula
Missoula Town Floats
Floating through downtown Missoula is one of the best ways to experience it. You get a snapshot of the history, culture, and above all, experience the river that is Missoula’s lifeblood. A bit of scenery, a few splashes, and a different perspective of the town make our Missoula Town Floats a wonderful way to experience the vibrancy of Missoula!
About this time of year the ‘tube hatch’ happens, which affectionately refers to a swarm of tubers leisurely floating down the “town section” of the river. While this can be a blast, it can be congested and slow moving, especially on windy. We offer a town rafting trip to help you enjoy a leisurely and scenic float, but with paddles! Your guide can paddle the raft for you and the trip can be done in 1-2 hours. Sightseeing from the river is the best! You have time to enjoy the beauty and the river.
Scenic Rafting On The Blackfoot River
“Eventually, all things merge into one, and a river runs through it” Norman Maclean famously said in the iconic movie A River Runs Through It. Can you guess what he was talking about!? Norman is referencing the beautiful Blackfoot River and our lovely town of Missoula. This reference says it all…
Rafting the Blackfoot River in Montana offers an exhilarating blend of scenic beauty and thrilling rapids. Renowned for its clear waters and stunning landscapes, the Blackfoot River flows through rugged canyons and dense forests, providing a picturesque backdrop for any rafting adventure.
The river features a mix of Class II and Class III rapids, making it accessible for both beginners and more experienced rafters seeking a moderate challenge. Along the way, rafters can enjoy abundant wildlife sightings, including eagles, deer, and even the occasional moose. The Blackfoot River, with its historical significance and natural charm, promises a memorable and invigorating rafting experience in the heart of Montana.
We offer a couple of different scenic float options. The Blackfoot River is our most popular, and for good reason – it is simply stunningly gorgeous. We have seen everything from bears and elk to deer and eagles. The Blackfoot is rich in stunning scenery, small, fun whitewater, history, and geology. This is a great option for anyone looking to experience Montana’s incredible scenery through one of its beautiful waterways.
The Blackfoot season is shorter and based upon water flow levels. This is typically a leisurely and scenic trip. Please call us or check our booking page for the latest info on if the Blackfoot River is in season and available for trips.
Lochsa River Rafting
Whitewater rafting near Missoula also includes an option in Idaho, which is less than two hours away from us. The Lochsa River is a truly special place. It is very rare to have the combination of big water, towering features, stunning views, and incredible food all in one place. Be prepared for the experience of a lifetime and be prepared to want to come back to visit year after year because the Lochsa will leave you wanting more every time!
This river boasts some of the best Class III and IV rapids, offering an adrenaline-pumping adventure for thrill-seekers. The Lochsa’s clear, free-flowing waters wind through a picturesque landscape of lush forests and rugged mountains, providing stunning scenery along the way. Rafters can expect challenging rapids, sharp drops, and the excitement of navigating through powerful currents.
In addition to the thrilling ride, the Lochsa River experience is complemented by delicious homemade BBQ lunches, making it a favorite destination for both adventure and culinary delights. Whether you’re an experienced rafter or looking for a high-adventure introduction to whitewater, the Lochsa River promises an unforgettable journey. Join us in late May for the trip of a lifetime!
There you have it, folks! There are so many whitewater rafting trips near Missoula that to enjoy! As you can see there are so many options to enjoy whitewater rafting near Missoula.
You can visit this page to book an adventure: https://www.zootownsurfers.com or call us for personalized trip planning assistance. We look forward to rafting with you! Let’s make memories that last a lifetime.
