Idaho’s Selway River is exceptionally unique for rafting and paddling. The river has a difficult permit draw and access is extremely limited. If you want an exclusive experience that is far removed from civilization, this it the one. The river is accessed via an airstrip and launches are staggered in a way that makes for an almost exclusive experience. The scenery and camping alone are on another level and the class IV whitewater is technical and challenging.
Selway River Flows
Selway River Rapids and Float Notes
The river is loaded with rapids along the 50-mile course between the Paradise Launch and takeout at Race Creek Campground. The first several miles are a nice warm up and the rapids kick off in succession with Slalom Slide, Gertie, Washer Woman and Cougar Bluff. All are rated at III and III+ to get started with some exciting runs.
11.5 – Goat Creek Rapid is a busy III/IV with narrow slots between truck sized boulders. It’s not so difficult for kayaks and small rafts but bigger boats require accuracy to navigate this rapid.
24 – Ham Rapid is a IV- with two big drops
27 – Moose Creek Hikes – The river gains serious volume with the confluence and it’s a good place to hike, camp and do some exploring on foot.
27.5 – Double Drop is a class III+ or IV- depending on flows.
28.5 – Ladle – Be prepared for this IV+ that has a variety of lines to run. It changes with the flows and is best scouted from river right.
29 – Little Niagara – It’s a class IV- that is followed by four class III’s in succession. Puzzle Creek, No Slouch, Miranda Jane, and lastly, Osprey make for a very active several miles. You can take a break after the last rapid through several miles of calmer waters.
38 – Wolf Creek Rapid – Scout the class IV before running. Big boulders funnel the river and you must choose the line wisely. High flows can offer a sneaker but typically you need to run the meat.
40.5 – Jim’s Creek Falls – Straightforward III+
47.9 – Takeout here. Selway Falls is the next rapid and is not runnable as a V+ drop.
Shuttle Services
It’s a long shuttle around the Bitterroot mountains and most companies charge a flat rate plus fuel costs. At roughly 250 miles long, it’s not the cheapest shuttle but it does help a ton with logistics when you don’t have to worry about figuring rides.
Selway Shuttles – Operating out of Darby. Give them a call or use their online registration. 406-821-3560
River Shuttles – 406-207-2021
Central Idaho River Shuttles – 208-507-1830
All River Shuttle – 1-800-785-7198
Lottery Permits
Selway River Permits are managed under the 4 Rivers Lottery. It’s one of the most difficult draw odds in the country. This is largely due to limited launches, a short season and a large number of entries. Put in for your permits and try getting on trips as a support boat or friend if you don’t draw.
River Specific Fishing Regulations
The fishing regulations are divided into three sections. From the mouth of the river to Selway Falls cable car, barbless hooks are required. From Memorial Day through November 30, 2 trout over 14 inches are allowed. No bait is allowed however. This is below the main rafting section.
The river is closed to all fishing from the Selway Falls Cable Car to the Selway Falls Bridge at Meadow Creek. Everything upstream from this point is catch and release only with barbless hooks and no bait.
When you start planning a Selway River rafting trip, pack your gear accordingly, book a shuttle and bring along a fishing rod for the abundant cutthroat trout in this river.
