News Year Day Run

New Years Day Run
The WWA boasts a New Year’s Day Run each year on the central Snake River in southern Idaho. Braving winter weather and residual effects from the previous night’s celebrating, bold participants forge up the river from Walters Ferry through the infamous “Graveyard” stretch of the river to Swan Falls Dam.

 

Tradition

Upon reaching their destination, the hardy adventurers engage in the traditional “Toast to the River Gods”. This is a one-day affair; participants meet mid-morning at the Walters Ferry boat ramp and most are back at the launch by mid-afternoon. Generally a dozen or so boats and two to three dozen individuals take part.

Difficulty

This run is not difficult, but there are several sections of the river that are quite technical. Graveyard in particular is best attempted for the first time with guidance from experienced drivers. Those who are not familiar with the route generally travel up with a leader.

Facilities

The ramp area at Walters Ferry has restrooms and a small dock. Dan’s Ferry Service is just a half mile away and has gas, convenience foods and drinks.

Swan Falls Dam

The destination on this run is the Swan Falls Dam. The dam was built in 1901 to generate electricity. It is the oldest hydroelectric dam on the Snake River. In the 1990s the original power plant was replaced with a new one. More information on the dam can be found here.

Directions

Heading south out of Nampa on ID-45 S/12th Avenue, continue approximately 15 miles to the Snake River. The boat ramp is just past the bridge and Dan’s Ferry Service is located just before the bridge.

 

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New Years Day Run

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Swan Falls Dam

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Walters Ferry Bridge

 

Next Scheduled Date

  • January 1st, 2017

    Contact for more information:

    *No contact has been assigned.

    Weather and other information:

    *No weather information is available.

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