Within a 100 mile radius of the Twin Falls-Sun Valley area, Idaho the Wilderness State offers an amazing array of diverse terrain, conditions and exciting possibilities. Join us and our crew on the Idaho Grand Adventure of a lifetime. From the bottom of the Snake River Canyon to the 11,000 foot Smokey and Boulder Mountains in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, we will observe Raptors in their native habitat, experience whitewater thrills galore and ski beneath the jagged peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains.
Days-1-2-3
Starting at the bottom of the Snake River Canyon – Birds of Prey Area at a little more than 2000 feet above sea level, we will observe the Raptors in their native environment. The volcanic nesting cliffs rise 400 to 500 feet above the river at places along it’s banks. We will camp and hike to see close-ups of the Raptors- Eagles, Hawks, Falcons, Owls, Osprey, Vultures, and other species that inhabits this area in the spring. The weather is usually warm and pleasant, with occasional spring thunder showers. This part of the Snake River is rich in Native and Early American History. The Oregon Trail parallels the river in places. Most of this area is roadless with the only access being by boat.
Day-4
We depart the Birds of Prey Area early a.m. and travel up-stream via the highway toward the Twin and Shoshone Falls areas of the Snake River. Passing through the Hagerman Valley en route, we will visit a “trout farm” and explore an archeological excavation. Prehistoric man once lived in this valley along with saber-toothed cats, camels, and the Hagerman Horse, which is a transitional equine species on display in the Smithsonian.
Fossil beds in the area have yielded remains of zebras, otters, pelicans and others, some dated at over 3 million years old!
Continuing on towards Twin Falls, we will make a stop at Miracle Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in their 110° mineral water. We spend that night in the town of Twin Falls, Idaho; our home and year-round headquarters.
Day-5
“Whitewater of the highest degree and caliber”, “Awesome!”, “Has to be seen to be believed”, “Compares to the Grand Canyon only better”- All of these and more have been used to describe this 15 mile section of the Snake River known as “The Murtaugh”. Idaho Guide Service pioneered trips down this section of the river and were the first outfitting company in the country to be licensed and permitted to conduct commercial float trips on “The Murtaugh”. This is a one day float trip that compares to none other in the country for big water. Sixteen major rapids block our course on our decent downstream to the Twin Falls (at over 100 feet high) on the Snake River.
Then we will take out (above the falls) and continue in our vehicles to Shoshone Falls 3 miles downstream. At 212 feet, Shoshone Falls is 52 feet higher than Niagra Falls. From here we will travel 100 miles to the north towards the snow-capped mountains of the world famous resort cities of Sun Valley/Ketchum. Here we will spend the night in luxurious accommodations before departing on the last leg of our Grand Adventure.
Days-6-7
Sun Valley, Idaho -the grand madam of North American Resorts. The surrounding mountains and terrain offer some of the best Nordic back-country and cross-country ski tours in the world. Early a.m. we will journey by van 20 more miles to the north to the very heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. There we will put on our ski equipment and continue by trail 2 1/2 miles to our camp at the base of the 11,000 foot Boulder Mountains. Spring in the Sawtooth means lots of good snow, warm weather and exciting skiing.
It’s hard to believe only yesterday you were on the mighty Snake River and it’s whitewater thrills! But that was 100 miles away and 7000 feet lower in elevation. Here the snow is brilliantly white with light powder in the trees, and the snow-capped peaks are looming overhead. We glide on a nordic back-country adventure for 2 days and 1 night, spending the evening in heated yurts and dining on scrumptious meals that our guides prepare for you there. The second day is spent skiing and exploring with an optional helicopter ski lift if you so desire. Towards late afternoon, when the sun starts to set behind the mountains, we will ski back down to the van and return to Sun Valley.
Rates
Price- $4000.00 per person.
Includes all ground transportation, all equipment you will need, including ski equipment (Nordic or Alpine touring) Motel Accommodations nights 4 and 5. All meals while on the river or in the ski area, and all beverages and snacks. To give you a chance to try some of the local cuisine, you’re on your own for breakfast on days 5 and 6 and dinner days 4 and 5. A selection of places are available near the motels. We can also arrange additional nights motel accommodations for you before and after the trip. We will be glad to help you arrange and plan your schedule when you book your trip. For additional Information on the individual trip descriptions please see our complete brochure package or contact us.