               |
FAQ
Are the guides licensed or certified or what?
Yes, the guides are licensed by the State of Idaho. Before a guide is
given a license, they must be able to demonstrate a significant background
of river experience and be certified in Advanced First Aid (or other more
advanced medical training such as a WFR or W-EMT).
How long are the trips?
Bearpaw River trips on the Lochsa River are either one or two days long.
One-day trips are great for a quick whitewater adventure while two-day trips
offer an entire weekend of boating and a nice riverside campout. If you
have a group with special trip needs, we could do a "charter trip" and let
you set the time frame.
How difficult are the rapids?
The rapids on the Lochsa are challenging and lots of fun. Most river people
rate the Lochsa as a class 4 river. This means that the boat must maneuver
past certain obstacles (rocks and "holes") and must splash right through
others (breaking waves and "wave trains"). During May and early June, the
run-off is at its peak so the river runs big and fast! But by the time July
rolls around, the river slows a bit and the rocks come out. Either way the
Lochsa is an exciting ride.
Do I have to be an experienced rafter
to go?
No, actually you do not have to be an experienced river rat to go on the
Lochsa. We take lots of first-timers down the river. It is important,
however, that you are able to be part of a paddle team, that you follow
directions, and that you come ready for an adventure!
Do I need to bring my own river gear?
No. Bearpaw will provide you with all of that- we have all of the important
stuff. All that you need to do is show up! However, sometimes it is good
to bring certain extras. Please view our Gear to Bring list.
How much paddling will I get to do?
Everyone will get ample opportunity to paddle. Being part of a paddle boat
requires that everybody works together to make certain moves. There are
times to float and rest and also times to paddle like crazy!
Where do we meet to begin our trip?
All of the trips begin and end at The Three Rivers Resort. The Resort is located
where the Lochsa and Selway rivers meet - combining to create the Middle Fork of the
Clearwater River. It is at milepost 99 of Idaho's highway 12. Three Rivers is 99 miles
east of Lewiston and 123 miles West of Missoula, Montana.
How many people in a boat, how many
boats on a trip?
We usually put seven people in a boat (including the guide) and have at
least two boats per trip. Sometimes we bring a "safety kayaker" if the
river is at a peak run off stage.
How deep is the river?
This is one of our favorite river questions! We are just going to make you
wait on this one. Come and do a trip and we will discuss it!
I have never been camping that much,
are we going to be comfortable?
Sure, we make every effort to ensure the comfort and safety of our guests.
We have a seasonally permanent campsite set up along the river. The camp
includes a huge wall tent, a large open-side awning, a gas BBQ, many camp
chairs, tons of sleeping pads, a fire-pan and plenty of dry wood. We have
it all over there. When we hit the camp beach after a day on the water,
your tent will be waiting for you. While your making up your "home", we
will be starting the fire and prepping for dinner.
Where is the best place to fly into?
Missoula, Montana would probably be your best choice. Lewiston, Idaho would
not be a bad choice. From there drive to Three Rivers Resort. One of the
things that make the Lochsa great is its distance from anything else!
How do we make a reservation?
To make a reservation, call us at 888 412-3900 or (406) 543-0988 (or send an email by
clicking on the link at the bottom of any of these pages). Be ready with a
rough idea of when you would like to go. We will set a date and add you to
the schedule and arrange to receive your deposit. After we receive your
deposit, we will send you a detailed confirmation packet in the mail.
|
|
|
