
Riverside Lunch
The complete Lochsa experience — Class IV whitewater and a legendary riverside meal.

Riverside Lunch
The complete Lochsa experience — Class IV whitewater and a legendary riverside meal.
Overview
The full Lochsa Riverside Lunch trip is the definitive western whitewater experience. Continuous Class IV rapids, miles of remote canyon scenery through the Clearwater National Forest, and a hot, satisfying riverside meal at our wilderness camp kitchen at 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 rafting the Lochsa River. Our guides have been running the Lochsa for 20+ years and will navigate you through the best lines on rapids like Ten Pin, Christmas, Joansie's, Bloody Mary, Grim Reaper, Lochsa Falls, Pipeline, Split Creek, and Termination.
Trip Highlights
- Full run of the best Lochsa sections with 20+ miles of rapids
- Continuous Class IV whitewater through the Bitterroot Mountains
- Hot riverside lunch at Riley Flats wilderness camp kitchen
- Famous from-scratch cookies and locally smoked BBQ
- Named rapids: Ten Pin, Christmas, Bloody Mary, Grim Reaper, Lochsa Falls, Pipeline, Termination
- Expert guides with 20+ years of Lochsa experience
What to Expect
Morning Meet & Drive
Meet at Zoo Town Surfers Headquarters for the scenic drive to the Lochsa put-in.
Upper Section
Warm up on Class III rapids before the big drops. Your guide navigates the best lines.
Riverside Lunch at Riley Flats
Fuel up at our wilderness camp kitchen — locally smoked pork, homemade BBQ, rolls, and famous from-scratch cookies.
Lower Section
Hit the biggest rapids of the day — Grim Reaper, Lochsa Falls, Pipeline, and Termination.
Takeout & Shuttle
Float to the takeout and shuttle back.
Who It's For
Ages 14+ (age requirement dependent on water levels). You should be capable of paddling for several hours and be a strong swimmer. Good physical shape and the ability to self-rescue are essential at bigger levels. Previous rafting experience recommended. Give us a call and we'll help you plan the perfect trip.
What's Included
- ✓ PFD (personal flotation device)
- ✓ Wetsuit
- ✓ Splash jacket
- ✓ Booties
- ✓ Fleece
- ✓ Raft & paddles
- ✓ Professional guide
- ✓ Shuttle
- ✓ Full hot riverside lunch
What to Bring
- • Sturdy footwear (Chacos, Keen-style sandals, or old tennis shoes — no flip-flops!)
- • Swimsuit
- • Quick-drying or breathable clothing (no cotton!)
- • Dry clothes for after
- • Reusable water bottle
- • Sunscreen
- • Extra cash for tip and merchandise
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Lochsa?
Why is the season so short?
Can first-timers raft the Lochsa?
What's included in the riverside lunch?
Do you offer group discounts?
Should I rent a drysuit?
Ready to Go?
Secure your spot on the next riverside lunch trip.