The Bruneau River is a tributary of the Snake River in the western United States, located in Idaho and Nevada. It runs through a narrow canyon cut into ancient lava flows in southwestern Idaho. The Bruneau Canyon, which is up to deep and long, features rapids and hot springs, making it a popular whitewater trip.
The Bruneau River's drainage basin is bounded by the Jarbidge Mountains to the southeast, the Owyhee Mountains and Chalk Hills to the west, and the Bruneau Plateau to the east. The name is derived from the French meaning "dark water".
Bruneau jasper, a semi-precious gemstone, was discovered near the bottom of the Bruneau River canyon walls and named after the river.
Recreation and protected areas
thumb|Bruneau Canyon from overlook
Much of the mainstem Bruneau River above Hot Spring is designated as a Wild and Scenic River, as are parts of the West Fork and East Fork and some of Sheep Creek. The Jarbidge Wilderness covers a portion of the southern end of the Bruneau watershed.