Bruneau Field Office

Jarbidge River System

Boating on the Jarbidge River

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 tonw 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 may be purchased for $10 from BLM at the Idaho State Office, located at 1387 South Vinnell Way, Boise or call (208) 373-4007 to order.

Jarbidge River


Bruneau Field Office  |  3948 Development Avenue  |  Boise, ID 83705
208-384-3300  |  Fax: 208-384-3493  |  Office hours: 7:45am - 4:30pm, M-F