Lochsa River Whitewater Rafting
Lochsa River whitewater rafting is an adrenaline-packed adventure through one of Idaho’s wildest free-flowing rivers. With 20+ miles of continuous Class IV rapids, massive waves, and heart-pounding drops, the Lochsa delivers an unforgettable ride. The Lochsa River is one of the best whitewater rivers in the world.
Lochsa River Rafting Overview
Our experienced guides at ZTS know the Lochsa River offers some of the most challenging and rewarding whitewater in the country. Here’s why guests travel from across the country to enjoy the rapids every spring.
Lochsa season begins in early May, when the high mountain snow begins to melt and spring rains come to Lolo Pass. This free-flowing, truly wild river can vary in flow depending on many variables, and its levels are hard to predict. The “big water” levels are typically between May and mid-June. Higher flows are great for guests with previous rafting experience who crave the rush of thunderous world-class rapids. Good physical shape and the ability to self-rescue are essential at these bigger levels. As the water drops, the temperatures increase and the river becomes more technical (and a little less intimidating). The Lochsa has something to offer at all flows. It never disappoints!
What Rapids Are On the Lochsa River?
The Lochas River Class III & Class IV rapids, which are like a rollercoaster! With rapids such as Ten Pin, Christmas, Joansie’s, Bloody Mary, Grim Reaper, Lochsa Falls, Pipeline, Split Creek, and Termination, every trip down the Lochsa is a superlative white water experience. Our guides are seasoned river runners and will enhance your white water rafting experience while maintaining the overall safety of your trip. No matter how many times you’ve seen the Lochsa, when your guide shouts “Paddle forward!” your heart pounds hard, and you know that the unparalleled thrills of this river are waiting for you just downstream!
The river originates on the western slope of the Bitterroot Mountains, deep in the wilderness of the Clearwater National Forest. The river quickly gains momentum as it cascades downstream, challenging boaters with its infamous big water rapids. This river delivers a wild ride that soaks you in big waves and adrenaline as you punch through crashing rapids and swirling currents.
Book a Lochsa River Whitewater Rafting Trip
Lochsa River - Half Day
Classification: Class IV
Time: 2-4 Hours depending on river levels
Pricing: $100 per person.
Lochsa Riverside Lunch
Classification: Class IV
Time: 3-6 Hours depending on river levels
Pricing: $170 per person.
Prices
$100 Half Day
$170 Riverside Lunch
Minimum Age
14 (age requirement is dependent on water levels)
Adventure Level
Experience World-Class Whitewater Rafting on the Lochsa River with Expert Guides
Guides and guests alike consider the Lochsa River one of the best whitewater rafting rivers in the world. It originates on the western slope of the Bitterroot Mountains, deep in the wilderness of the Clearwater National Forest.
This quick-moving river packs rapid after rapid into 10 and 20 mile stretches. With our expert guides leading the way you will paddle through thrilling whitewater and enjoy the trip of a lifetime. Our guides will point out their favorite spots and navigate you through the best lines. We have been offering guided trips since 2004.
Satisfying Lunch on The Lochsa River
All of our trips include hot, satisfying meals served from our Lochsa Riverside wilderness camp kitchen, Riley Flats. Locally smoked pork shoulders, homemade BBQ sauces, rolls, and our famous cookies from scratch will satisfy any hungry appetite. Trust us, tasty riverside meals make ALL the difference when white water rafting the Lochsa River.
Can First Timers Raft The Lochsa River?
Here’s the lowdown: You should be capable of paddling for several hours and a strong swimmer. (There are breaks, too.) Curious if this is right for you? We love helping people plan the perfect trip. Our advice is to give us a call and we’ll help you plan the perfect trip.
20+ Years Experience Rafting The Lochsa River
Folks, whitewater rafting on the Lochsa River does not disappoint! Just ask the owner of Zoo Town Surfers, who loves to tell guests about his favorite rapids while rafting with you. Be sure to ask Ian (owner) where his favorite spots on the river are. Zoo Town Surfers have been in business 20+ years. Book your best Lochsa River trip today and experience Class IV whitewater at its finest.
What You Bring Rafting
- Sturdy footwear (Chaco, Keen-style sandals, or old tennis shoes. Anything but flip-flops!)
- Swimsuit
- Quick-drying or breathable clothing (no cotton!)
- Dry clothes for after
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Extra cash for tip and merchandise
What We Provide
- PFD (personal flotation device)
- Wetsuit
- Splash jacket
- Booties
- Fleece
- Raft
- Paddles
- Guide
- Shuttle
Rafting The Lochsa Quick Facts
- Lochsa river rafting trips runs from early May through June 15 most years.
- Our whitewater rafting trips vary in time and trip length from 2-6 hours depending on water levels, how many miles you are rafting and various factors.
- Expect to get wet! Planning your layers in advance is key!
- Paddling is required, the more you put in, the more you get out!
- Due to the nature of the mighty Lochsa, we do not offer beverages and snacks on our half day trips.
- We are happy to honor a 10% discount for groups of 12 or more.
- If you are a Veteran or Active-Duty Service Member, as a thank you for your dedication and service, we also offer a 10% discount.
- We highly recommend renting a drysuit through the Trailhead or Loveboat Paddle Company, both based in Missoula.
- Lochsa rafting trips are also described in more detail, here.
Reviews
The Mighty Lochsa Photo Gallery
