The Owyhee River originates in northeastern Nevada and enters southeastern Oregon in Malheur County. Generally flowing in a northerly direction east of the Idaho border, it eventually flows into the Snake River. The curious name 'Owyhee' is from the old spelling of 'Hawaii'. It was named for three Hawaiian trappers employed by the Northwest Trading Company who were sent to explore the uncharted river in 1819. They were never seen again.

The Wild and Scenic Owyhee River is often described as a miniature Grand Canyon and is unique in its remoteness and high-desert beauty. The river travels through magnificent canyons with walls towering over a thousand feet above, and is rich in cultural history with Native American petroglyphs dating back 9,000 years. A more recent history of the pioneer ranchers is evident by the abandoned homesteads.

Not lacking in wildlife, the Owyhee is a birder's paradise during the spring, and roaming herds of bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, deer and the elusive bobcat may be sighted.  

As the Owyhee depends on spring run off to provide enough water to float, we only offer 2 trips each year in late April and early May. Our launch site is at Rome, elevation 3,400', 52 miles above our takeout point at the magnificent Leslie Gulch.

Call us for more details on a trip through the Owyhee Canyonlands.