A Raft Of Fun Whitewater Activity May Be Great This Spring

Outfitters say Idaho could offer some of its best-ever whitewater rafting this spring, thanks to huge snowpack for some rivers.

According to Wilderness River Outfitters, the snowpack above the Salmon and Bruneau rivers is 130 to 150 percent of normal, meaning big water. It will be only the second time in 10 years that the Bruneau is available for consistent whitewater expeditions.

Wilderness River Outfitters runs trips from early April through late May. For information, call (800) 252-6581.

River Odysseys West, based in Coeur d’Alene, has a variety of trips in Idaho beginning in May and running through autumn. Its lineup includes day trips and longer adventures, some suitable for families. For information, call (208) 765-0841.

Warren River Expeditions has a variety of float trips on the Main Salmon, including whitewater rafting, fishing trips (spring and fall), trips for seniors and grandparents/ grandchildren, and trips lasting up to a week. For information, call (800) 765-0421 or (208) 756-6387.

Western River Expeditions is based in Utah and offers whitewater rafing around the West, including two branches of the Salmon in Idaho. For information, call (800) 453-7450.

Bargains and discounts: Deals for people with wheels:

Northwest Getaways ‘96, a coupon book featuring hundreds of 50 percent discounts at tourist attractions throughout the Northwest, is available from Entertainment Publications.

It covers Washington, Oregon, Idaho, British Columbia and Alberta and features a wide range of accommodations, restaurants and other commercial operations. New this year are discounts on wineries and microbreweries.

The coupon book, valid through Dec. 1, costs $10, and also comes with an assortment of restaurant discounts for the Spokane area. For information, call Entertainment Publications in Spokane at 535-5712.

The Broadmoor Park Outlet Mall, in the Tri-Cities, opened last weekend. The mall, off Interstate 82 at exit 7 or 9 in Pasco, currently has 20 stores with three more under construction. For information, call (509) 544-6168.

Friday Harbor House, on San Juan Island, is offering three nights for the price of two in a springtime promotion. For reservations or more information call (360) 378-8455.

Experience Yellowstone: The nonprofit Yellowstone Association is offering more than 80 courses in its 21st season, which runs from the end of May through September. The programs last from two to five days, and some can be taken for college credit.

Courses include horsepacking, backpacking, fly fishing, and wildlife observation. They offer the opportunity to learn about the history and geology of the Yellowstone area. Many of the courses are held in the remote northern end of the park.

For information or a free catalog of courses, call (307) 344-2294.

Happy trails: The nonprofit Trail Riders of the Canadian Rockies, founded in 1923, is offering a variety of rides this season, including several that require no experience. The rides last six days, and some are designed specifically for families. Rides take place in the Red Deer River valley and riders will camp on the eastern slopes of the Rockies. The trips will be held July through September.

All trips include horse and saddle, all meals, transportation to the trailhead, and teepee or tent accommodations. The cost is $800 in Canadian funds. For more information call (403) 264-8656 or send an E-mail request to: SBercovich(at)CBE.AB.CA .

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