Moose Creek
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| Put-in: |
Dolph Creek |
| Take-out: |
Meadow Creek |
| Difficulty: |
Class III, IV, V
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| Length: |
43 miles |
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The Selway River canyon is considered one of the best whitewater trips in the U.S. and one of the last pieces of unspoiled wilds in America. This adventure is a perfect blend of amazing scenery, rollicking whitewater, superb fishing and spacious campsites. Launches are restricted to only one group per day, assuring that each group on this trip has a true wilderness experience.
The Selway has the unique distinction of being one of the first two rivers protected by the National Wild & Scenic Rivers Act of 1968. It originates in the Bitterroot Mountains and flows west, cutting through the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness Area in central Idaho.
With an average river slope of 28 feet per mile, much of this river is made up of technical Class IV rapids, making this the perfect adventure for both the seasoned boater looking for some excitement, and those who are seeking an adrenaline-filled trip.
May and June are the high water periods, and boaters agree that at this level, the rapids’ difficulty can increase by a whole class ranking. It is recommended that boaters scout many of the rapids, especially those after Moose Creek joins with the river and increases flow by about 50%. The Selway is much more difficult than the Middle Folk of the Salmon and the Main, and possibly for that reason, it is one of the least utilized rivers in the West. Though obtaining a permit is quite difficult, trips rarely fill to their capacity of 16.
Camps are marginal and scarce on the upper section of this river, and large and sandy towards the end. It is recommended that boaters schedule a layover day while in the heart of the canyon to truly absorb the spectacular surroundings.
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