More Water Means More Rafting

Idaho’s raging rivers soon will settle into what could be one of the best rafting seasons in memory.

In normal years, the thrills of the rapids tend to wither away by mid summer on many rivers. This year, however, good river flows ought to extend well into summer, when water and air temperatures are more pleasant for campers.

Meanwhile the current high flows are rejuvenating the rivers, re-depositing sand on beaches and washing down a good supply of firewood.

This year’s big water, however, could be dangerous to inexperienced rafters. Water that was tame last July is likely to be more wild at the same time this year.

The Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association recommends that people booking trips pay particularly close attention to selecting a river and company.

Get names of several outfitters for the river you’re scouting. Get brochures and references and be sure they offer the type of trip you want.

Ask the outfitters how long they’ve been running the river. Who will be the guides? How long have they been guiding? Are they licensed? In Idaho, they should be members of the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association to assure they have met minimum training and insurance criteria.

Check on age restrictions. Most river trips are family oriented, but some are high-adventure trips not appropriate for small children.

For a brochure listing Idaho’s licenced outfitters, call (800)-VISITID or check the Internet at http://www.ioga.org/

, DataTimes ILLUSTRATION: Photo