The mighty St. Joe River in northern Idaho doesn’t get nearly as much attention as it should, but this not-so-little gem is truly magnificent! Winding and twisting along its own scenic byway, and home to some seriously fruitful trout fishing, “The Joe” is an idyllic slice of paradise in the panhandle that also has a few surprises and world records up its sleeve. Not to mention some of the most incredible, yet underrated, waterfront scenery in the state. It’s a lush, rejuvenating paradise… but without the crowds.Take a look.
The powerful Saint Joe River stretches 140 miles across the Idaho Panhandle, flowing from the high mountains of Avery, Calder, and St. Maries before meeting with Lake Coeur d’Alene.
Cheryl Reed/Flickr Uniquely, the St. Joe is also the highest navigable river in the world, with its starting point sitting well over 2,000 feet in elevation.
Calm on the surface for much of its journey, the deep and dark river is also referred to as the “Shadowy Joe” due to the dense forest country it cuts through.
Cheryl Reed/Flickr The landscape is one of towering coniferous trees, rich vegetation, and scenic mountain views. But don’t underestimate this mighty river based on the serene landscape; the St. Joe also offers Class III rapids for adventure-seekers!
It’s a private oasis unlike any other.
Sarah H/Flickr
Take a walk alongside the river and through the trees and you’ll find a secret world to explore.
Steve Garrity/Flickr
Plus, it’s magnificent in every season!
Idaho Fish and Game/Idaho Tourism/Flickr
World championship jet boat races take place here every year.
Nichole/Flickr
The river passes through the equally wonderful Heyburn State Park, home of the breathtaking Lake Chatcolet.
Robert Ashworth/Flickr
How’s that for a perfect getaway?
David Merwin/Flickr
Don’t believe it? This serene video captures the overlooked beauty of this true Idaho oasis.
Cheryl Reed/Flickr
Uniquely, the St. Joe is also the highest navigable river in the world, with its starting point sitting well over 2,000 feet in elevation.
The landscape is one of towering coniferous trees, rich vegetation, and scenic mountain views. But don’t underestimate this mighty river based on the serene landscape; the St. Joe also offers Class III rapids for adventure-seekers!
Sarah H/Flickr
Steve Garrity/Flickr
Idaho Fish and Game/Idaho Tourism/Flickr
Nichole/Flickr
Robert Ashworth/Flickr
David Merwin/Flickr
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