Riggins, Idaho – population just under 500 – is likely already on your radar as the gateway to Hells Canyon from the south, and as the “Whitewater Capital of Idaho.” But for every spectacular adventure there is to be had in Riggins, there’s an equal amount of unparalleled Idaho beauty, rugged small town charm, and plenty of Western fun thrown in to keep this town lively in every season.
One thing is for sure: you’ll need a lot more than one weekend to experience the full magic of this Gem State treasure!
According to local history, Riggins was once known as “Gouge Eye, Idaho” just a little over a century ago.
Nan Palmero/Flickr A rough and tumble reputation, its own fair share of explosive bar fights, and a place in gold mining history allowed this itty bitty riverfront town to earn quite the name for itself.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
Fortunately, the town eventually outgrew its “wild” side and settled down to be the beautiful, outdoorsy haven that it is today.
sarai corona/GoogleMaps Rather than being named for a famous saloon brawl, Riggins was named after the town’s first mailman - a much tamer foundation for a town!
Well… somewhat. There are still some wild tendencies left in this old town!
flickr/Social Geek
Riggins lies between the two deepest gorges in North America and hugs the shores of the Little Salmon River and the famous Salmon River, the longest free-flowing river within the lower 48 states.
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook A.K.A. Some of the most magnificent scenery in the state, and a gateway to more than a few natural wonders.
That means for the outdoor recreation and small town community lover, Riggins is a true diamond in the rough.
From here, adventure lies in every direction, as well as right in the heart of the city. Up river takes you east to the main Salmon River and the “River of No Return” Wilderness. Northwest will find travelers dwarfed and captivated by the magnificent Hells Canyon Recreation Area, towering Seven Devils, and the deepest river gorge in the country.
For this waterfront community, life centers around the Salmon River and the stunning mountains that rise up, roll, and climb until they meet the Seven Devils of Hells Canyon.
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
burkle/GoogleMaps You’ll feel small and awe-struck in the best way possible by all of the natural scenery.
That means fishing…
flickr/Bureau of Land Management
Beach lounging…
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
And boating (or rafting) make up the heart and soul of this town’s vibrant personality.
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
But for those looking for a little something extra, Riggins is full of family events of every type.
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook The famous Riggins Rodeo, Salmon River Days, Big Water Blowout Festival, and more transform the town into hopping place to tap your toes to some fantastic summer concerts, catch an epic boat race or two, and cheer for a local cowboy. Or, dig into some fantastic dutch oven cooking!
Plenty of trails fill in the gaps (so you can dry off in between river trips).
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
You can also take a historic walking tour to visit two dozen different significant sites.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr A photo on the 45th Parallel is an absolute must!
Or, just sit back and enjoy the sights.
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook Riggins is truly in the heart of Idaho’s rugged magnificence. Highway 95 to Whitebird and on up to Grangeville is like something out of a dream!
The natural beauty is truly one of a kind!
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
But whether staying for a weekend, a week, or a lifetime, it’s always hard to put this adventurous town behind you.
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook So, why leave at all?
You can find out more about Riggins, the town’s events, or directions on how to get there by checking out the Chamber of Commerce site here.
Nan Palmero/Flickr
A rough and tumble reputation, its own fair share of explosive bar fights, and a place in gold mining history allowed this itty bitty riverfront town to earn quite the name for itself.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
sarai corona/GoogleMaps
Rather than being named for a famous saloon brawl, Riggins was named after the town’s first mailman - a much tamer foundation for a town!
flickr/Social Geek
Salmon River Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
A.K.A. Some of the most magnificent scenery in the state, and a gateway to more than a few natural wonders.
From here, adventure lies in every direction, as well as right in the heart of the city. Up river takes you east to the main Salmon River and the “River of No Return” Wilderness. Northwest will find travelers dwarfed and captivated by the magnificent Hells Canyon Recreation Area, towering Seven Devils, and the deepest river gorge in the country.
burkle/GoogleMaps
You’ll feel small and awe-struck in the best way possible by all of the natural scenery.
flickr/Bureau of Land Management
The famous Riggins Rodeo, Salmon River Days, Big Water Blowout Festival, and more transform the town into hopping place to tap your toes to some fantastic summer concerts, catch an epic boat race or two, and cheer for a local cowboy. Or, dig into some fantastic dutch oven cooking!
A photo on the 45th Parallel is an absolute must!
Riggins is truly in the heart of Idaho’s rugged magnificence. Highway 95 to Whitebird and on up to Grangeville is like something out of a dream!
So, why leave at all?
What’s your favorite thing to do in Riggins?
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