Bruneau River
★ Wild & Scenic🌿 Wilderness
Elko Co. · 40 mi · Class III–IV
194CFS/ 5.16 ft
Flood→Stable
Optimal: 300–1500 CFS · USGS #13168500
Length
Difficulty
Optimal
Avg Flow
Hist. Median
USGS Gauge
Bruneau-Jarbidge Rivers Wilderness Study Area · BLM Wild & Scenic eligible
A remote desert canyon whitewater run through one of the deepest and most spectacular gorges in the American West. The Bruneau carves 800-foot rhyolite walls through the Owyhee Desert — Class III-IV rapids in a setting that rivals any slot canyon in the Southwest. Permit required; season is narrow spring snowmelt window.
Trip sections
Indian Hot Springs to confluence — 30 mi, the main canyon run, Class III–IV
Bruneau Canyon overlook — 10 mi, deepest section, 800-foot walls
Outfitters
Bruneau River Guides
Permitted guided trips through the Bruneau Canyon
72-Hour Flow Forecast
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10-Year Flow Patterns
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Data Quality
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and trip sections may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level. If you spot an error, use the Improve This River button at the top of the page — your local knowledge is what makes this atlas accurate.