The Lochsa and the Selway come together at Lowell to form the Middle Fork of the Clearwater. Along U.S. 12 below Lowell is a pleasant summer Class II canoe float. In the fall this is premium steelhead country.
The riverbed is wide at this point, as 30,000 cfs and more can flow through here during spring run-off. This river would be dangerous for canoes at this time. The beginning of the float begins in lush cedar forests but gradually drier vegetation becomes more pronounced towards the end.
While in the area, we recommend driving up the Selway for a look at the falls. You could consider a float down the lower section of the Selway. This would make an excellent family canoe trip, first time raft or fishing trip.