Basics
- River:
- Owyhee River
- Class:
- Class IV (One Class V)
- Suitability:
- Raft
- River Length
- 37 miles
- Time:
- 3-4 days
- Season:
- April to early June
Description
Once the Middle Owyhee River has picked up enough water from side creeks, it plunges through over thirty miles of exciting whitewater canyons filled with big drops, large wavetrains and impressive holes.
Basalt canyon walls jut up on both sides of the Middle Owyhee, squeezing the river and adding to its remote feel. Side canyons of the Middle Owyhee reveal trails leading to ancient petroglyphs and several hot springs bubble up along the way, giving means to sooth tired paddling muscles.
Occasional abandoned ranches and cabins can be seen along the way, a tribute to the rugged nature of settlers over a century ago. One portage may be necessary in high flows along the Middle Owyhee, around Class V Widowmaker Rapid. The town of Rome, Oregon is located at the takeout.
