For decades the rivers of Idaho have captured the imagination of boaters the world over. Whether you long for an extended wilderness river trip, a thunderous day trip or leisurely float paddlers of all disciplines will find some piece of water that “floats their boat”! And that’s not all, Idaho now has on display two premier paddling playgrounds, Kelly’s Whitewater Park in Cascade Idaho and the Boise River Park in the heart of downtown Boise.
It’s easy to understand why the buzz flowing through the paddling community around Boise, the state of Idaho and the entire western region is beginning to intensify. As we move into the heart of paddling season Idaho plays host to a whole bunch of river events this season. Many of the events are spaced every few weeks allowing ample time for recovery from one only to ramp up for the next in line! The summer calendar is chock full of fun paddling activities for those looking to both participate and spectate. Below is a sampling of what to expect and plan for.
For the raucous crowd June 6th kicks off The North Fork Championships a 3 day paddling event featuring some of the world’s most talented kayakers showcasing their skill on one of the world’s most revered pieces of whitewater the North Fork of the Payette! In only its 2nd season this race has become the pinnacle of whitewater kayak racing. The events include a down river race, boater cross and for the Elite paddlers by invitation only a giant slalom race through Jacob’s ladder! For a taste of what to expect check out the video from last year.
Homegrown and happening monthly we have two local Boise paddle gatherings: Idaho River Sports Paddle & Potluck which takes place on Tuesday evenings and is open to all paddlers. Paddlers congregate at IRS and then head next door to Quinn’s Pond for an evening of paddling and socializing. Bring your boat of choice and if you don’t have one and are in need of a boat for the evening IRS extends $5 boat rentals for all SUP, kayak and canoes. Be sure to check the IRS calendar of events for June’s date you won’t want to miss out on the festivities, good folks, good food and libations from Payette Brewing.
On Wednesday’s the Idaho Canoe, Kayak & SUP Club gather at Ann Morrison Park at 5:30 and arrange to shuttle up to Barber Park where the evenings float begins. First scheduled Boise River Float is slated for June 12th. If you need a boat for the evening call the good folks at IRS as they offer ½ off boat rentals. Plan to potluck in the park after each paddle and be sure to bring your favorite beverage and a side dish.
Next up are the Payette River Games another 3 day paddling event in Cascade Idaho June 21st-23rd. A complete festival of events for everyone and their dog! The Payette games aren’t limited to SUP, raft, and kayak events but will also include River Dog where handlers and their canines contest a game of fetch to determine the King or the Queen of the river! Be sure to check the schedule of events as they cover a wide range of activities from fitness comps, Bocce Ball and much more.
As the sampling above supports, June is packed month here in Idaho and the stoke levels are running high! As paddlers, we Idahoan’s have it good, in fact real good. We are fortunate to paddle all our wonderful waters on any given day but to also benefit from the passionate groups and individuals with the enthusiasm to promote such events is a real bonus. So, bring your attitude, gear up & get out and enjoy what Idaho has to offer up!
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