Jarbidge River System

Boating on the Jarbidge River / Map

This remote and challenging 29-mile float trip takes boaters through a maze of spectacular canyons, “hoo-doo” rock spires, junipers and red volcanic cliffs.

Directions: From Rogerson, Idaho, take Jarbidge Road (“Three Creek Road”) to Murphy Hot Springs. The launch site is several miles downstream from the town of Murphy Hot Springs.

Put In: Confluence of the West and East Forks of Jarbidge Rivers, two miles north of Murphy Hot Springs | Take Out: Indian Hot Springs

If you choose to run the 40-mile Bruneau River from this location, you can take out on private land one mile downstream of Hot Creek, on the east side of the Bruneau River.

Additional Info:

• Difficulty: Class III, IV and V rapids
• Experienced river floaters only due to difficult portages
• Kayaks are recommended, but rafts are also possible
• Float Season: Spring
• Ideal flows: 500-2500 cfs
• Mandatory registration
• Maximum group size: 15 people
• Primitive camping available
• Wildlife/scenic viewing

A waterproof river guide is on sale for $10 at the BLM Idaho State Office, 1387 South Vinnell Way in Boise.  Order by phone at (208) 373-4007.