Idaho, the northwestern state of the United States, is renowned for its natural beauty, including its mountains, forests, and rivers. The rivers of Idaho offer various recreational opportunities like rafting, kayaking, and fishing. The state of Idaho has a diverse range of rivers, from the calm Snake River to the fast and furious Salmon River. In this essay, we will provide a detailed guide to the rivers of Idaho, along with the Idaho rivers map.
Idaho Rivers Map
Click Here to Download
The Snake River is the longest river in Idaho and the tenth-longest in the United States, with a total length of 1,078 miles. The river begins in Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming and flows through Idaho, Oregon, and Washington before emptying into the Columbia River. The Snake River offers excellent opportunities for fishing and rafting, with a variety of fish, including trout, sturgeon, and bass. The river is also home to the Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America.
The Salmon River is one of the most popular rivers in Idaho, also known as the “River of No Return.” The river runs for 425 miles, making it the longest un-dammed river in the United States. The Salmon River is famous for its fast-moving rapids and steep canyons, making it an ideal destination for rafting enthusiasts. The river also offers excellent opportunities for fishing, with a variety of fish species, including salmon, steelhead, and trout.
The Clearwater River is a tributary of the Snake River, running for approximately 75 miles in Idaho’s north-central region. The river is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish populations, including salmon, steelhead, and trout. The Clearwater River is also popular for recreational activities like rafting and kayaking.
The Payette River is a 70-mile-long river in southwest Idaho. The river is known for its fast-moving rapids, making it a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking. The Payette River also offers excellent opportunities for fishing, with a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, and salmon.
The Boise River runs for 102 miles through the southwestern region of Idaho. The river is a popular destination for recreational activities like fishing, swimming, and kayaking. The Boise River is also home to the Boise River Greenbelt, a 25-mile-long park that offers trails for hiking and biking.
The Kootenai River is a 485-mile-long river that flows through Montana, British Columbia, and Idaho. The river runs through the Kootenai National Forest and offers excellent opportunities for fishing, with a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, bull trout, and kokanee salmon. The Kootenai River is also popular for recreational activities like kayaking and rafting.
The St. Joe River is a 140-mile-long river in the Idaho panhandle. The river is known for its crystal-clear waters and excellent opportunities for fishing, with a variety of fish species, including cutthroat trout and steelhead. The St. Joe River is also popular for recreational activities like camping, hiking, and rafting.
The Henrys Fork River is a 127-mile-long tributary of the Snake River. The river is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, and salmon. The Henrys Fork River is also home to the Harriman State Park, a popular destination for camping and hiking.
The Selway River is a major tributary of the Clearwater River, running for 47 miles in the north-central region of Idaho. The Selway River is known for its breathtaking scenery, crystal-clear waters, and challenging rapids, making it a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking. The river is also home to a diverse range of fish species, including salmon, steelhead, and trout.
The Middle Fork of the Salmon River is a 104-mile-long river that flows through the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness Area in central Idaho. The Middle Fork is known for its stunning scenery, challenging rapids, and excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of fish species, including cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and steelhead. The Middle Fork of the Salmon River is a popular destination for rafting and kayaking, offering thrilling rapids and breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
The South Fork of the Snake River is a 66-mile-long tributary of the Snake River, running through the southeastern region of Idaho. The river is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of fish species, including cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout. The South Fork of the Snake River is also popular for recreational activities like rafting and kayaking.
The Owyhee River is a 346-mile-long river that flows through Idaho, Oregon, and Nevada. The river is known for its remote and rugged wilderness, offering excellent opportunities for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and fishing. The Owyhee River is also popular for recreational activities like kayaking and rafting, with thrilling rapids and breathtaking scenery.
In conclusion, Idaho rivers offer a diverse range of recreational opportunities, including fishing, rafting, kayaking, camping, and hiking. With its stunning natural beauty and challenging rapids, the rivers of Idaho are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. The Idaho rivers map provides a comprehensive guide to the state’s rivers, making it easy to plan a trip and explore the beauty of Idaho’s waterways. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful fishing spot or an adrenaline-pumping whitewater adventure, Idaho’s rivers offer something for everyone.
