Cottonwood Chronicle

The Bitterroot National Forest is warning boaters of damage to the Selway River corridor following a severe wind event last summer.
On the afternoon of July 24, 2024, a severe storm caused extensive damage across portions of the Bitterroot and Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. Winds equivalent to a category 2 hurricane uprooted and damaged many trees, particularly within the Selway River corridor, many of which fell into the river and riverside camps. This is likely to impact river recreationists’ experience this season.
It is anticipated there will be considerable movement of trees and other large woody debris within the river corridor during spring runoff. Boaters should exhibit extra caution this season navigating the river and in selecting camping locations.
When in doubt, scout!
The Selway River flows 47 miles through north-central Idaho within the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. From the Paradise launch site to the Race Creek take-out, the river drops an average of 28 feet per mile, creating a technical whitewater experience that challenges even expert boaters. From May 15-July 31, the river employs a lottery permit system to protect it from excessive human impacts and maintain a quality Wilderness experience. Permits are not required outside of the control season. Though there are trails, private ranches, a Forest Service Guard Station and a few landing strips, access is limited and opportunities for solitude abound.
Questions or condition reports should be directed to the West Fork Ranger Station at (406) 821-3269.

The Paradise Launch Site on the Selway River in the Bitterroot National Forest, pictured above, was one of the sites receiving wind damage in a storm last July. Photos by Bitterroot National Forest.