BLM IDAHO WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS

In the 2009, Congress designated 16 segments of wild & scenic rivers covering over 300 miles in the Owyhee Canyonlands of southwest Idaho.  Idaho’s Wild and Scenic Rivers reside in the Owyhee Canyonlands, a remote area found in southwestern Idaho. Hidden within this vast high desert plateau are deep canyons carved by the Owyhee, Bruneau, and Jarbidge Rivers. These rivers offer something for nearly every level of boating experience.  These unique and beautiful canyons are a great place to explore, hike, backpack and enjoy unsurpassed solitude. Volcanic caves, canyons and spire-like hoo-doos tower hundreds of feet above whitewater rafters here. In early spring, this area brightens up with beautiful desert flowers contrasted sharply against the dark volcanic rock. The sagebrush plateaus of the Owyhee Uplands provides habitat for over 200 species of wildlife. Soaring eagles and hawks can often be seen flying over the skylines and nesting along the cliff faces here. The ancestors of the Shoshone-Paiute and Shoshone-Bannock people have used these canyonlands for thousands of years for shelter, weaponry, fish and game and water. From placid pools to turbulent whitewater; from vertical cliffs to steep grassy slopes, this area presents visitors with challenging and extraordinary experiences. 

Bruneau Wild River

A view of the wild section of the Bruneau River. Photo by Bob Wick.

Hidden within a vast high desert plateau are deep canyons carved by the Owyhee, Bruneau and Jarbidge Rivers in a remote area of southwestern Idaho. Nearly 40 miles of Bruneau River's 50-mile total length are designated as wild. Volcanic caves, canyons and spire-like hoo-doos tower hundreds of feet above whitewater rafters in this unique environment of unsurpassed solitude and unique beauty. In early spring, this area brightens up with beautiful desert flowers contrasted sharply against the dark volcanic rock. The sagebrush plateaus of the Owyhee Uplands provides habitat for over 200 species of wildlife. Soaring eagles and hawks can often be seen flying over the skylines and nesting along the cliff faces here.  The ancestors of the Shoshone-Paiute and Shoshone-Bannock people have used these canyonlands for thousands of years for shelter, weaponry, fish and game and water. From placid pools to turbulent whitewater; from vertical cliffs to steep grassy slopes, this area presents visitors with challenging and extraordinary experiences. 

All BLM IDAHO Wild and Scenic Rivers

A complete list of the BLM IDAHO wild and scenic rivers is below: