There are a lot of watercraft on Idaho’s Salmon and Middle Fork Rivers at any given moment. There are full-sized rafts, dories, canoes, kayaks, and fishing floats. But one of the most iconic boats you’ll see is the “Sweep Boat.”
Mostly popular in Idaho, these specialized inflatables are made to haul gear over whitewater rapids. They are large. They are steered with long oars (known as sweeps). And they are both essential for river trips and very challenging to pilot. One mistake and all your group’s gear and supplies could easily take a spill.
The compelling short film Driving Sweep follows Idaho River Adventures river guide Katie Veteto as she learns to pilot a Sweep boat. Although she’s run the river many times and knows it well, she’s never driven a sweep boat. Now, it’s her turn to learn how to do it on the Middle Fork River.
Runtime: 9:47
