Known as the “Grand Canyon of Idaho” and one of the most spectacular desert rivers in the US, the Bruneau Canyon is a remote wilderness trip of mellow Class II whitewater to exciting Class V rapids. This raft trip is a river-runner’s dream come true with undammed, free-flowing waters, a wide array of wildlife and a kaleidoscope of wildflowers in the spring. The Bruneau has a really short season from May to mid-June with very limited number of commercial raft trips offered, so if this an experience you’ve always wanted to have, sign up well in advance of the season.

Rafters can expect to see many varieties of birds, reptiles, beavers, otters, coyote, antelope and big horn sheep. Campsites are usually located on beautiful sandy beaches amongst twisted juniper trees and sage bush.

There are dozens of side hikes and a few opportunities to soak in hot springs. With sheer canyon walls of red rock reminiscent of Bryce and Zion National Parks and the lush riparian environment of the riverside, it is no wonder the Bruneau has also been called the Sistine Chapel of all river canyons.