Brave the Rapids and Explore Scenic Idaho With Family
By Wolfe Ashcraft
When it comes to whitewater, there’s no place like Idaho. With 3,100 navigable river miles (the most in the lower 48), the Gem State is a paddler’s playground. So when you’re looking to create new memories on a summer adventure, look no further than Tamarack Resort’s professionally guided whitewater rafting trips on the Cabarton stretch of the Payette River. Tamarack’s experienced guides treat guests to two types of trips, which are great for first-timers and seasoned rafting veterans, alike.
Full Day
On this seven-hour adventure (9 a.m.-4 p.m.), Tamarack’s professional guides lead you through 11 miles of Class II-III rapids, which means easily maneuverable water with plenty of big splashes to cool you off while getting your pulse racing. The trip includes a break for a delicious shore-side lunch and a swimming excursion. Cost: $89 plus tax for adults; $69 plus tax for kids 12 and under. Transportation, lunch and personal flotation devices are included.
Express Trip
Don’t have time for a full-day trip? Save two hours while experiencing equal thrills on our express trip (9 a.m.-2 p.m.). This five-hour trip navigates the same 11 miles as the full-day trip but skips the swimming excursion and ends with lunch on the ride home. Cost: $79 for adults; $59 for kids 12 and under. Transportation, lunch and personal flotation devices are included.
Now that you’re ready to book your whitewater trip and take on some rapids, here are some answers to our most frequently asked questions:
Experience
The great part about our trips is that no prior rafting experience is necessary. Our expert guides will provide an orientation beforehand and coach you throughout the trip. You just need to be able to swim and be physically able to do some short bursts of paddling.
Gear
Since Tamarack provides the bus, boat, life vests and lunch, all you need to bring is yourself dressed in splash-ready attire and some water shoes or sandals (old tennis shoes work just fine). You’ll definitely get wet, so plan on having a dry change of clothes and a towel that you can leave on the shuttle bus for when you get off the river.
COVID-19 Precautions
The health and safety of our guests is our No. 1 priority. To keep everybody as safe as possible, our trips include the following protocols:
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All guides and guests are asked to wear full personal protective equipment (masks and gloves) on shuttle buses.
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We use larger buses to allow more space for safe social distancing between guests on their way to and from the rafting adventure.
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We have replaced our buffet-style lunch on the river with individually pre-packaged lunches for guests.
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Guests will be screened for COVID-19-related signs and symptoms and informed of Tamarack’s social-distancing, hand-sanitizing and mask protocols upon arrival at check-in.
If you’re booking a whitewater adventure, we hope you’ll consider extending your visit with a stay at one of Tamarack Resort’s multiple lodging options. Tamarack vacation rentals are perfect for families or larger groups, offering cosy amenities and stunning views. Solo travellers, couples and small families will find the ultimate mountain-chic experience at the Lodge at Osprey Meadows — just steps away from the resort’s base area.
Find more information on our website or contact us at (208) 325-1000. We look forward to hosting you for a whitewater rafting adventure at Tamarack!
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