#9 on this list
Grande Ronde River
Oregon, USA
The Grande Ronde offers a classic multi-day wilderness float through a remote and beautiful canyon in northeastern Oregon. This is a journey through ponderosa pine forests and open meadows, famous for its fishing (steelhead and trout) and its sense of solitude. The whitewater is generally mild, mostly Class I-II with a few Class III rapids, making it an excellent choice for families, beginners, or those seeking a relaxing multi-day trip focused on camping, fishing, and scenery. The season is typically spring through early summer, with flows dependent on snowmelt. Access is often from Boggan's Oasis near the Washington border. Permits are required and are often secured through a lottery system for peak dates. The trade-offs include the remoteness and the potential for variable flows; too low, and it becomes a drag-fest. However, for those who value peace, quiet, and a genuine river journey over big rapids, the Grande Ronde is hard to beat. Bring your fishing rod. **Highlights** * Scenic multi-day wilderness float * Predominantly Class I-II, suitable for beginners and families * Excellent fishing for steelhead and trout * Remote canyon scenery with ponderosa pine forests * Opportunities for solitude and wildlife viewing **Watch-outs** * Permits required, can be competitive for peak dates * Flows can be highly variable, check gauges before going * Remoteness requires self-sufficiency * Lack of significant whitewater for thrill-seekers
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#10 on this list
Salmon River (Lower Main)
Idaho, USA
While often associated with Idaho, the Lower Main Salmon's proximity and similar character to many PNW wilderness rivers make it a worthy inclusion. This is the 'River of No Return' – a multi-day, true wilderness expedition through one of America's deepest canyons. The whitewater is fun and splashy Class III, with occasional Class IV at higher flows, making it accessible to a wide range of skill levels, from adventurous families to seasoned paddlers. The river is warm in summer, offering a welcome reprieve from the cold, snowmelt-fed rivers elsewhere. The season runs from late spring through early fall. Access is from Corn Creek or Vinegar Creek, deep in central Idaho, requiring significant travel. Permits are extremely competitive and allocated through a lottery system due to the 'Wild and Scenic' designation. Trade-offs are the high demand for permits and the significant logistics involved in planning such a remote trip. However, the reward is an unparalleled wilderness experience, rich in history, scenery, and genuine adventure. **Highlights** * Iconic multi-day wilderness expedition, 'River of No Return' * Fun Class III-IV rapids through a deep canyon * Warm water in summer, ideal for swimming * Rich historical sites and hot springs along the river * Abundant wildlife (deer, bighorn sheep, bears, eagles) **Watch-outs** * Extremely competitive permit lottery * Significant travel and logistics required for access * True wilderness, requiring self-sufficiency and preparedness * Can be crowded at popular campsites during peak season
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Grande Ronde River | Salmon River (Lower Main) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Northeastern Oregon, USA | Central Idaho, USA |
| River Type | Multi-day wilderness float | — |
| Difficulty | Class I-III (mostly I-II) | — |
| Key Activities | Rafting, fishing, camping, wildlife viewing | — |
| Primary Access | Boggan's Oasis | — |
| Permits | Required, lottery for peak dates | — |
| River Miles | — | 79 (Corn Creek to Vinegar Creek) |
| Typical Duration | — | 5-7 days |
| Whitewater Class | — | III, IV at higher flows |
| Best Season | — | Late Spring to Early Fall |
| Primary Access Point | — | Corn Creek, ID |
| Designation | — | Wild and Scenic River |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Grande Ronde River
- Genuine multi-day wilderness experience
- Excellent fishing opportunities for steelhead and trout
- Predominantly mild rapids suitable for beginners and families
- Stunning canyon scenery and abundant wildlife
- Opportunities for true solitude and relaxation
- Permits are competitive, especially for prime dates
- Flows can be very low, leading to boat dragging
- Remoteness requires careful planning and self-sufficiency
- Limited whitewater thrills for experienced paddlers
Salmon River (Lower Main)
- Genuine multi-day wilderness expedition through a deep canyon
- Warm river water in summer, great for swimming and comfort
- Class III-IV rapids offer fun and engaging whitewater for many skill levels
- Rich in history, hot springs, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities
- Unparalleled scenery and sense of remote adventure
- Permits are exceptionally difficult to acquire via lottery
- Significant logistical challenges due to remote access and shuttle needs
- Can experience crowded campsites during peak season launches
- True wilderness demands high level of self-sufficiency and preparedness
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