🚣 River
Selway River
About This Permit
The Selway has the most restrictive launch quota of any permitted river in the country — one party per day during the 78-day control season. Widely considered one of the wildest and most pristine rivers in the lower 48, the Selway flows nearly 100 miles through roadless Idaho wilderness with no commercial rafting, no lodges, and almost no other parties on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Selway River permit so hard to get?
Only 1 party is allowed to launch per day during the May 15 – July 31 control season — the most restrictive daily quota of any river permit in the U.S. Demand vastly exceeds supply year after year.
How does the Selway River lottery work?
Permits are awarded through the USFS "4 Rivers" advance lottery on recreation.gov. Applications are submitted December 1 – January 31. Results are announced around February 14–15. Winners must confirm their reservation by March 15 or forfeit it. Cancelled and unconfirmed permits are released March 16 at 8:00am MT on a first-come basis.
What happens if I need to cancel my Selway permit?
You must cancel at least 15 days before your launch date. Late cancellations (within 14 days of launch) incur a penalty and result in a 1-year ban from holding permits in the 4 Rivers system.
Can I float the Selway outside the control season?
Yes. August 1 onward, no permit is required and there is no quota. Flows are lower post-control season, but the river remains floatable in good water years — and you'll have it entirely to yourself.
What is a Selway River trip like?
Nearly 100 miles of continuous Class IV whitewater through completely roadless wilderness. No commercial traffic, no lodges, minimal infrastructure. It is a fully self-sufficient expedition-style float and one of the most exceptional wilderness experiences in North America.
Key Facts
- State
- ID
- Float Season
- Control season May 15 – July 31; no permit required outside control season
- Launch Quota
- 1 launch party per day during control season (most restrictive quota on this list)
- Put-in
- Selway Falls (put-in)
- Take-out
- Selway Falls Boat Ramp, Nez Perce NF
- Difficulty to get permit
- 5/5(Nearly impossible)
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