Lochsa River Kicks Off the Northwest's 2015 Rafting Season

Rafting on the Lochsa River Provides Big Thrills in the Early Season

The Northwest’s 2015 whitewater rafting season kicks off with the Lochsa River in central Idaho. The Lochsa, a Nez Perce word meaning rough water, is a great early season rafting river for those looking for big thrills.

While the Lochsa season typically runs between April and mid-July, lower than average snow pack this year means the best time to raft the Lochsa is in May and June. The lower water levels will still provide big rapids, though not as big as in most years, making it an ideal season for a somewhat less intense rafting experience.

"There will still be plenty of punch in the Lochsa this season. While our season will be a few weeks shorter, the Lochsa never disappoints. Lower flows make some rapids tougher, in fact, and overall, medium to low flows are more fun."

Peter Grubb, ROW Adventures Founder & Owner

Peter Grubb, founder of ROW Adventures, an outfitter based in Coeur d’Alene, ID, has guided on the Lochsa since 1984. Grubb comments that “there will still be plenty of punch in the Lochsa this season. While our season will be a few weeks shorter, the Lochsa never disappoints. Lower flows make some rapids tougher, in fact, and overall, medium to low flows are more fun.”

Peter goes on to explain that “guides are more relaxed with lower flows, and the calm stretches between the rapids last a little longer, allowing people to soak in the beautiful mountain scenery that is sometimes missed at high water. The rapids are still solid class IV's even at lower flows. Spring weather has been unusually warm this year, so May is proving to be a great month to be on the Lochsa!”

Outfitters typically offer just one-day guided trips on the river, but multi-day trips are available too; ROW Adventures is one such outfitter. Guests may choose between camping, as well as lodge-based options. At River Dance Lodge, located just 30 miles from the Lochsa put-in, and 14 miles from Kooskia, ID, ROW offers special packages and rates for visitors looking for Lochsa rafting this season. More information about Lochsa rafting & lodging packages can be found on the River Dance Lodge website under "Packages" --> "All-Inclusive Packages."

People looking for more moderate whitewater trips in the Northwest should consider the Snake River and Rogue River, both controlled by dams that will allow for good rafting all season long (May through September), and the Salmon River Canyons that always has fun, splashy rapids and warm waters during the peak summer season in July and August.

###

About ROW Adventures

Since 1979, ROW Adventures has been sharing the excitement of adventure travel with guests from around the world. With an eclectic collection of destinations that span the continents, our adventures are artfully crafted, meticulously organized and enthusiastically conducted. Whether you're white water rafting in Idaho, yachting in Croatia, sea kayaking the Galapagos Islands or trekking in Peru, you'll benefit from our deep experience, extensive knowledge and caring, personal service. For more information, please call 1-800-451-6034 or visit ROWadventures dot com.