Owyhee River

2012 Dates: May 9 - May 13, 2012 (Wed. through Sun.)

Few people have had the pleasure of descending into the Owyhee River Canyon, one of the country's secret gems of wilderness multi-day river rafting.

The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act has protected over 120 miles of the Owyhee River from development since 1984. Often called Oregon's Grand Canyon, the Owyhee river contains thrilling class III rapids in a deep, desert canyon. Bighorn sheep and cougars wander through sagebrush at the base of sheer-walled volcanic canyon walls, nearly twice the height of the Washington Monument.

Guides point out herds of antelope, birds of prey and other distinct wildlife who visit the river for sustenance. Add in stellar archeological sites and hot springs, and this trip fulfills all the requirements for one of the world's greatest river journeys.

Hawaiian trappers were first sent into the canyon in 1820, never to return. The harsh environment and difficult rapids proved treacherous for future explorations, allowing the region to remain untouched for generations. While miners ventured into the deep layers of basalt, few others have experienced the intrigue of the Owyhee River wilderness.

The only way to see the depths of the colorful Owyhee Wilderness is on a multi-day raft trip down the river.

Our trip begins 5 days travel upstream from Leslie Gulch. Each day you'll drift deeper into the wilderness, and deeper into your relaxing river routine. You will calmly float along the river's path in between the exciting class III rapids scattered throughout the entire 5 day trip. A riverside lunch, prepared by your guides, will replenish energy levels for the afternoon. Pulling into a favorite camp site, your guides set up the kitchen with mesmerizing scenery all around.

In places like Jackson Creek, Chalk Basin and Green Dragon Canyon you'll find colorful side canyons, stunning waterfalls, and scenic ridgelines with amazing views of the river below. Take a hike up a side creek, relax on the beach with a good book, or explore nearby hot springs for a dip in Mother Nature's hot tub. Your gourmet appetizers and dinner will have you believing you're in a five-star restaurant. After dinner its time to revel in the adventures of the day, tell lies by the fire, or drift off to your personal star-gazer's paradise.

You'll wake up to this rich environment and an itinerary of relaxing, exploring and enjoying the river for the next 5 days. A warm breakfast and coffee prepare you for the day's river journey as your guides talk about what lies downstream.

Take your vacation on the river and bask in a remote wilderness for five days with good food, good times and good people.

We will provide you:

• Waterproof dry-bags for your personal items
• River clothing: wet suit, booties for your feet, paddle jacket
• Helmet and PFD (personal flotation device)
• All camping equipment and meals

For additional trip details and a packing list, take a look at our Owyhee River Information Packet. Or simply give us a contact us at, 877.390.9445. We would love to answer any questions you might have.

Read about Wet Planet's 2011 staff trip on the Owyhee River to learn more about this enchanting river canyon.