Widowmaker

Widowmaker is the most difficult rapid on this section of the Owyhee. It is a steep class V with a huge boulders and holes creating tight lines. The accepted line changes with water levels. Many parties, probably most, portage this monster. The right side is most often used as a portage route, but the huge boulders make it a rather difficult task for rafts. Kayaks have an easier time and it only takes a few minutes to walk around the main drop and pass the boats down. Rafts are lined from the right side. Depending on the water level, a class III-IV entrance rapid can be run and the eddy caught directly above Widowmaker. The eddy is not large, so be on your toes. Scouting this entrance drop is highly recommended. Some may chose to portage the entrance and Widowmaker both. Note: Plan your day so that you have ample daylight when you reach Widowmaker. The last camps before Widowmaker are located just above and below Soldier Creek.