Salmon river rafting
Idaho’s rivers access some of the most pristine terrain in The United States. They are home to abundant flora and fauna, an impressive network of hiking trails, and some of the country’s most fun whitewater. No river displays all these characteristics quite like the Main Salmon. The main section of the longest undammed river in the mainland U.S., the Main Salmon offers a rich river experience. Free-flowing Class III whitewater that’s great for any age and experience level, big sandy beaches perfect for camping and playing, beautiful mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and a natural hot spring are among the hallmarks of the Main. The Main Salmon is an excellent family river trip, offering something for every generation. There are even some gorgeous hot springs to stop at.
Inflatable kayaking, spotting wildlife, swimming, fishing, hiking and beach games are activities the whole family will love. Floating down a river, cares and worries are swept away as fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, enjoy quality time together with each passing mile. TV, computers and telephones are replaced with campfires, tents and time on the water. Since we take care of trip details including meal planning and preparation, your time is free to enjoy yourself and one another.
Itinerary & Map
Transfer to McCall where you’ll stay overnight. Pre trip briefing at 8pm.
Included: Breakfast
Depart McCall for Salmon where we begin our rafting trip late morning. There are a wide variety of boats on offer, inflatable kayaks, dories and oar boats to get us through our first rapids Killum and Gunbarrel.
Included: All meals
As we journey into the pristine heart of the Frank Church Wilderness, each day brings new discoveries: exciting rapids like Salmon Falls, Big Mallard and Growler, historical sites such as Buckskin Bill’s homestead and Jim Moore’s place (maybe you’ll find the fortune he buried in the hillside!), and the much anticipated Barth Hot Springs. Avid hikers may enjoy a challenging climb to Rabbit Point, where the beautiful views are well worth the effort of getting there. The fishing is excellent during these days, and on trips in August, warm air and water temperatures encourage frequent refreshing dips in the river.
Included: All meals
Today, as the Salmon River begins to parallel the forest service road, we say farewell to the river and our guides and travel by van from the take-out back to McCall, about 1 ½ hrs, arriving between 4:00-6:00 PM and overnight in our hotel.
Included: Breakfast & lunch
What you should bring
We find most of our clients have in their posession already what is needed for a river journey. We have broken down here the items into what you’ll need on the river and in camp. An equipment list of what you will require for your adventure will be sent to you prior to your departure.
Download equipment file- A pair of Chacos / Keens or similar sandals. (Sandals with a closed toe are ideal)
- A pair of river shorts (longer leg length) shorts can be purchased from our online Water Shop.
- A Swimming costume or bikini for ladies.
- A rash vest (not cotton) or long sleeved top to wear under your personal flotation device.
- A baseball cap for under the helmet to keep sun off – can be purchased from our online shop.
- Sunglasses.
- Chums for fastening your sunglasses to your head – can be purchased on line
- 1 Litre Nalgene / Sigg or similar water bottle.
- Carabiner for fastening water bottle to your boat.
- Waterproof camera such as GoPro for the ‘action’ shots
- Waterproof sunscreen and lip balm SPF50 minimum.
- 2 Lightweight neutral coloured long trousers.
- 2 Lightweight tops – long sleeved shirt or t shirt.
- Fleece jumper / sweatshirt.
- Shorts
- Wide brimmed sun hat.
- Underwear.
- A 3-season sleeping bag. (Can be hired in advance)
- Travel Pillow.
- Flip flops or trainers for wearing around camp.
- Thermal top and bottoms. (Good to sleep in)
- Woolly hat.
- Glasses or Contact lenses. Disposable lenses are ideal.
- Toiletries. Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap and shampoo.
- Forget the cosmetics and hair dryer! But we do suggest moisturizer.
- Hand wipes and a small bottle of hand sanitiser.
- Small pack towel.
- Headlamp or head torch with spare batteries.
- Any medication you may be taking.
- Insect repellent.
- Blister plasters.
- Your favourite book/kindle or a journal for recording your river memories.
- Sketchpad.
- Binoculars.
- Photographic or video equipment. We recommend a cleaning kit as sand gets everywhere.
- Spare memory card.
- Solar or portable charger.
- Zip lock bags to keep valuables dry and sand free.
- Rehydration tablets (Phizz, Nuun and O.R.S are easily available)
- The only money that you need to bring is for meals in town, souvenirs, personal items, gratuities and the beer kitty for the raft trip if you drink.
- Tents, sleeping mats.
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