For those of you looking to pack an exciting whitewater adventure into a short period of time, the Main Salmon River near Riggins is the perfect stretch of river for you! Float some of the best whitewater on the entire Salmon on half-day and full-day trips.
In between the rush of crisp whitewater and the immensity of the Salmon River Gorge, Northwest Voyageurs brings their signature commitment to excellence in the form of great meals, refreshing beverages, and experienced and professional guides. Taking pictures, swimming, or even trying out an inflatable kayak, they have developed trips to share as much of their "neighborhood" as they can.
Two-Day Raft Trip The Salmon River, also known as the "River of No Return", is the longest free-flowing river in the country. The journey is highlighted by two days of fun Class III and Class IV rapids and a beautiful riverside beach camp at the bottom of a breathtaking 5,000-foot canyon.
Trips in May and June feature huge Class III-IV+ rapids and high water conditions. July through September features warmer weather and water through the exciting Class III whitewater rapids.
Trip Details
Duration
Half to 2 Days
Location
Main Salmon River
Season
April - October
Trip Type
Paddle & Oar
Nearest City
150 Miles from Boise, ID
Physical Condition Required
Fair
Destination(s)
Idaho, United States
Rated Classes
III-IV
Guest Capacity
100+
Minimum Age Limit
7
Distance Traveled
10 Miles in Half Day; 20 Miles in 1 Day; 38 Miles in 2 Days
Inflatable Kayaks
Yes, With Instruction Provided
Additional Activities
Fishing, Swimming, Cliff Jumping, Off-River Hiking/Exploring, Hot springs, Volleyball, Horseshoes
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Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Overnight Rafting Meet at the Little Salmon Lodge at 7:30am for an 8:00am departure. About an hour later, arrive at Vinegar Creek, the starting point of this overnight adventure. You'll cover approximately 20 exciting river miles each day. The first day offers an optional hike to a natural hot springs.
After lunch on the river, arrive at camp between 4:00 and 5:00pm. The entire camp is already set up, which means your only job is to enjoy the surroundings. You can swim, play bocci ball, hike, fish, or just relax. In the evening, Northwest Voyageurs prepares a fine gourmet meal in their well-stocked river kitchen, including fresh-baked breads and dessert.
Day 2: After a hearty hot breakfast, you are back on the water around 10:00am looking forward to more thrilling whitewater. Today you'll run even bigger whitewater, including Ruby Rapids, Tight Squeeze and Trap Creek. After a full day including lunch served on the river, you typically arrive back at the Little Salmon Lodge around 5:00pm.
This Package Includes
Half-Day - Snack, Full-Day - Lunch, Overnight - All Meals
Rafting and Camping Equipment
Notes
Getting Here Most participants fly into Boise and drive to Pollock (about three hours) the day before their trip. Consider staying at the Little Salmon Lodge the night before and after your river trip for charming riverside lodging and excellent food.
Pre-Trip Orientation: Whether you stay with Northwest Voyageurs or somewhere else the night before your trip, join Northwest at the Little Salmon Lodge for your pre-trip orientation. At this optional get together, you can meet your guides and fellow rafters, learn how to properly pack your bags, and ask any last-minute trip questions you may have. The pre-trip orientation is typically around 7:00pm.
Reservation Policy
A non-refundable deposit is required to make your reservation. The amount required is: $1,000 per person for international trips, $400 per person for all other multi-day trips, $100 per person for overnight trips, and $40 per person for day trips is required to confirm your reservation. A deposit of $40 per lodge room, per night is also required. The full balance is due 90 days prior to your trip for multi-day trips and 60 days prior to your trip for day trips and lodge reservations. If your trip is booked less than 60 days in advance, full payment is required at the time of reservation.