Selway River Trail

Selway River Trail #4 is a long-distance hiking route in Idaho that follows the Wild and Scenic Selway River through the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness area. The corridor largely runs along the river, so expect to hike in a tight, wooded riverside landscape with occasional rises over headlands before dropping back toward the water.

The typical thru-hike is about 50 miles one-way and is usually planned as a multi-day backpacking trip. Most people budget around 3 to 5 days for a full passage, with shorter day hikes or out-and-back segments also common on the trail.

Water access is generally straightforward along the route, but river conditions can affect both tread and crossings after spring runoff. Spring through early fall tends to be the main season, with late spring (around May) starting the window and early fall (into October) as the usual end; higher water can make the trail muddier or rougher in the river corridor.

Expect terrain that mixes gradual elevation changes with occasional steeper bits, especially when the route rounds headlands above the river. Some sections can get brushy, and seasonal mud plus higher river levels can influence how firm the ground feels.

Major landmarks along the way include Moose Creek Ranger Station and an airstrip, which also mark the route’s rough halfway point. Pack-bridge crossings over the Selway River and tributaries are part of the experience, tying together the riverside tread.

For route logistics, the two ends are far apart and not a simple same-day shuttle. Common practice is to start from one trailhead and arrange a shuttle or key swap to access the opposite end; the eastern trailhead is Paradise Campground area near Darby, Montana, and the western trailhead is Race Creek Campground area near Kooskia, Idaho.

More information: Backpacking the Selway River Trail: A Hike from Paradise – TrailGroove..., 3 Days on the Selway River Trail : Clearwater Trekking, Trail Spotlight: Selway River Trail #4 - Idaho Trails Association