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Selway River permit

Selway Gear Checklist

What to carry on Selway, and why. 8 more are worth the pack space.

8Total Items
8To bring

What to bring on Selway

Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list.

  • Bring

    A bucket and shovel

    the only equipment the agency actually requires beyond boat tags

  • Bring

    An Idaho invasive species sticker

  • Bring

    Class IV-capable boats and boaters; the gradient below Moose Creek doubles

  • Bring

    Rescue gear appropriate to a river 49 miles from a paved road

  • Bring

    A portable toilet system and a firepan

    the agency recommends both, and every comparable river requires them

  • Bring

    A mesh strainer and an ash container, on the same reasoning

  • Bring

    Dry suits; the Selway runs in May and June on snowmelt

  • Bring

    A satellite communicator

    because the road out is 49 miles of gravel

16 people can go on one permit. Split this list between them so nobody carries two stoves.

Build a shared list

General backcountry gear

Kit we recommend for backcountry trips in general. This is not a checklist specific to Selway — the Idaho Wild Rivers rules for this permit are above.

🎒
Recommended
Wild Ideas

Bearikade Weekender

Ultralight carbon fiber bear canister. IGBC certified.

1 lb 15 ozultralightcarbon-fiber
$325
🎒
Recommended
Katadyn

BeFree 1L

Ultralight collapsible filter system.

2 ozultralightfast-flow
$44.95
🎒
Recommended
BearVault

BV500 Bear Vault

The most popular bear canister for Sierra backpacking. Fits 7 days of food.

2 lbs 9 oz7-day capacityapproved
$89.95
🎒
Recommended
Black Diamond

Distance Carbon Z

Lightweight folding carbon poles.

1 lb 1 ozcarbonfolding
$169.95
🎒
Recommended
Sawyer

Sawyer Squeeze

The most popular water filter for backpacking.

3 ozpopularreliable
$37.95

Gear Tips for Selway

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Weigh your pack before you go. A lighter pack makes for a happier hike.
  • •Rent expensive gear if you are trying a new activity for the first time.
  • •Test all new gear at home before hitting the trail.
  • •Check current regulations as some items may be required seasonally.

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