This is a river experience and it will be challenging. You will get wet.
Many participants may be new to paddling, arriving with similar levels of experience and feelings of nervousness about what to expect. Our staff is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and connected environment for everyone on the trip. We’re here every step of the way to ensure your experience is enjoyable and enriching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have camping/rafting experience to participate?
No. Our trips are customized to accommodate most fitness levels and physical limitations; no previous camping or rafting experience is necessary. As with any outdoor sport or adventure activity, rafting has inherent risks. The ability to walk unassisted on sand and uneven terrain is mandatory for extended-day river adventures.
Should I be concerned I will not have the physical ability to participate in one of your adventures?
Before you turn down an opportunity to participate in a River Discovery adventure, reach out to speak with us.
Needing extra accommodation does not mean you cannot participate in any of the trips.
What should I do if I'm nervous/anxious about spending a week with people I don't know, doing an activity/sport I've never done, in a place I've never been before?
Our culture embodies compassion, inclusion, and kindness. We welcome everyone, regardless of their experience, comfort level, or background, and our staff will support you wherever you may be on your journey.
Will I be safe?
River Discovery contracts with a licensed outfitter to provide professional guides and high-quality rafting and camping equipment including a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) for all participants.
Professional medical and mental health volunteers attend all of our multi-day trips, and many of the guides have advanced wilderness first-aid responder certifications. Guides and outfitters are informed ahead of time of medical conditions and accommodations necessary for participants.
I have dietary needs - how do you meet them?
Participants can share their dietary requirements and preferences, which are absolutely considered during menu planning. While outfitters handle most meals and snacks, individuals with specific dietary needs are encouraged to bring supplementary snacks or food items, ensuring their nutritional needs are met.
Do I need permission from my doctor to participate?
For individuals diagnosed with cancer, submission of a Provider Medical Evaluation form is mandatory along with your registration paperwork.
I live outside of Idaho. Can I still participate?
YES. Our trips are not limited to people who live in Idaho.
What is the closest major airport?
Boise Airport (BOI) is the most convenient airport for all of our adventures.
Do I get to bring my family with me?
We offer different types of adventures. Some you can bring your family with you, others are designed for you and a co-survivor, and others are for survivors only. Each adventure specifies who can go on each trip HERE.
Can I participate in more than one adventure?
Adventures are once in a lifetime experiences. We encourage you to apply every year for any trips you have not yet participated in. Please do not reapply if you have already been on a specific trip.
Details river trip attendees should know before registering.
- Be prepared to set up and potentially share a tent
- Bathrooms are portable and “leave no trace”
- Attendees are accountable for arranging their transportation to the starting location. Carpooling options are available upon request. Details regarding the starting point for each adventure will be provided specifically for your trip.
What are the basic expectations?
- Most trips are off-grid, without cell phone service. We encourage minimizing phone use outside of taking photos.
- Sharing photos – any photos taken by River Discovery will be shared with the entire group
- Cancer Talk – We each get to make our own decision about how much we talk about cancer. A facilitator typically accompanies our trips to assist in guiding conversations, but individuals have the autonomy to decide what they feel comfortable sharing with the group.
- Attendees are expected to keep any sensitive or private information sacred to the trip
What if I cannot afford the travel and supplies for the trip?
Don’t allow financial concerns to deter you from applying for any of our adventures. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that finances do not pose a barrier to participation in any of our programs. Contact our Executive Director to explore available financial aid options.
Do I need insurance to attend a program?
Travel insurance is strongly advised but not mandatory for our extended multi-day trips. It offers valuable coverage and added reassurance during your journey. TravelEx is a suggested provider.
River Discovery and our partnering outfitters are covered by liability insurance. However, emergency evacuation coverage is not included, and participants are responsible for securing it. Many insurance policies offer this service, so it’s essential to review yours for details.
Is alcohol allowed?
Alcohol consumption during our rafting trips is restricted to those over 21 years of age with two drinks per person per evening. Boxed wine or bottled alcohol is not allowed; only drinks in aluminum cans are permitted.
What is Your Covid-19 Policy?
- In furtherance of River Discovery’s’ (RD) commitment to health and safety, RD strongly recommends that all Parties (e.g., Participants, Visitors, Volunteers, and Partners) at a RD program are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
- Please adhere to CDC’s COVID-19 vaccination definitions (e.g., “fully vaccinated” and “up to date”) and recommendations for immunocompromised and non-immunocompromised persons. Please note that CDC’s vaccination recommendations may change as COVID-19 data evolves.
- RD serves moderately and severely immunocompromised individuals and asks that you consider the health and safety of others when attending a program. Vaccinations provide protection against severe disease. Even if everyone is up to date on vaccinations, some infections may occur.
- RD reserves the right to require masks, social distancing, testing, quarantining, and any health measures as needed. Willingness to comply with RD’s health measures is a condition for program participation.
- Do not attend a program if you are not feeling well (e.g., COVID-19 like symptoms, the flu, common cold, etc.). If this is the case, RD will find another program for you. You will not be admitted to a program if you are sick. If you have any questions about this policy you may contact [email protected].
