(3 customer reviews)

The Middle Fork of the Salmon River is a renowned whitewater rafting gem located in Idaho’s Frank Church Wilderness. For five or six fun-filled days, you will continuously witness dramatic changes in geology and scenery going from high alpine down to an overall warmer climate.

  • World-class whitewater with Class 2, 3 and 4 rapids on gin-clear water through canyons deeper than the Grand Canyon.
  • Blue Ribbon catch-and-release fly fishing. Catch unlimited native Cutthroat trout.
  • Soak in riverside hot springs.
  • See abundant wildlife.
  • Luxury primitive camping, and enjoy gourmet river cuisine that will blow your mind.
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At Outdoors International, we specialize in adventure travel experiences that take you off the beaten path and into the heart of nature. If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, floating the Middle Fork of the Salmon River should be at the top of your list.

The Middle Fork of the Salmon River

Located in the heart of Idaho’s Frank Church Wilderness, the Middle Fork of the Salmon River is a 104-mile stretch of pristine water that flows through some of the most remote and rugged terrain in the United States. This river is a true wilderness experience, with no roads, no cell service, and no modern amenities. But for those who are up for the challenge, it’s an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

The Middle Fork of the Salmon River offers a variety of experiences for both novice and experienced adventurers. You can choose to raft or kayak down the river, hike the surrounding mountains, or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area. No matter what you choose, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery, crystal-clear water, and abundant wildlife.

Amazing whitewater float on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River
The Middle Fork of the Salmon River has over one hundred classified rapids with several of the highest being Class 4 and the rest being Class 1 to 3.

World Class Whitewater

For those who choose to raft or kayak down the river, the Middle Fork offers a unique and challenging experience. The river is known for its Class III and IV rapids, which provide plenty of excitement for even the most experienced paddlers. But don’t worry if you’re new to whitewater rafting – our experienced guides will take care of everything, ensuring that you have a safe and enjoyable trip. The best whitewater dates book fast, so let us know if you’re interested.

Whitewater Float Down the Middle Fork of the Salmon River
This Middle Fork of the Salmon River float can make for an incredibly relaxing family vacation.

If you want a “mellower” float trip come later in the summer.

Whitewater is often the biggest concern when planning your vacation… and these concerns are valid. However, don’t be discouraged from enjoying what countless families described as the “greatest vacation they’ve ever experienced. By the end of June the water levels have usually dropped considerably, but there is still plenty of action. Many of the rapids are actually more fun at lower levels. This Middle Fork of the Salmon River float can make for an incredibly relaxing family vacation.

The Middle Fork of the Salmon River also offers plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding wilderness. Bighorn sheep, moose, elk, mule deer, bears, wolves, and many smaller animals including the always popular river otter. A bird watchers paradise, you will see a multitude of birds as well, including bald eagles and osprey.

Sunset in the Frank Church Wilderness

At night, you’ll sleep under the stars in a comfortable tent, listening to the sounds of the river and the surrounding wilderness. Our experienced guides will take care of all the details, including setting up camp, cooking delicious meals, and providing entertainment around the campfire.

Overall, the Middle Fork of the Salmon River is an experience that you won’t soon forget. It’s a chance to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in nature, surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery in the United States. If you’re looking for an adventure that will challenge you, inspire you, and leave you with memories to last a lifetime, we highly recommend the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. This wilderness adventure in Idaho has been described as “life changing” by many of our clients.

This Float is an Amazing Family Vacation

Cooking along the Middle Fork of the Salmon River
For a wilderness experience, you will be surprised how comfortable your guides will keep you during your float. You will have all of the amenities you need.

It’s more than just whitewater. There’s something for everyone in the family. The vast Frank Church Wilderness area is an awe inspiring place to get away from your phone, computer, and the rest of the “real world”.

You will see cultural and historical sites, pictographs, the guides will tell you about the mining history, early settler history, you’ll learn about the Sheepeater War, swim, hike, run trails, experience stories around the campfire, there are inflatable kayaks and paddle boat opportunities, as well as deluxe fishing boat options. Your family will be raving about it for years!

Bring your kids!

This is an amazing family vacation. There are swimming holes everywhere, as well as ancient native American history. Kids love to explore the canyon for pictographs left behind by the Sheepeater Indians.

Or, maybe you are wanting to do something amazing with your significant other… there are numerous hot springs along the way and they can make for the perfect soak for the two of you.

Oh, and did we mention that the fly fishing on the Middle Fork of the Salmon is EXCEPTIONAL? You can catch and release hundreds of wild cutthroat trout… literally! This amazing trip is worth it just for that.

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3 reviews for The Middle Fork of the Salmon River: A Wilderness Adventure You Won’t Forget

  1. Kent Goodman

    The fishing is out of this world…seriously! I’ve fished in a lot of pretty cool places and this river is an incredible fishery. You will have 30 – 50 fish days on wild cutthroat ranging from 10” – 18”+. There are also creeks and tributaries where huge native bull trout call home. Big Creek is a great hike and can hold large hungry cutthroat that are patiently waiting to destroy your bug!

  2. Webb

    I went on this trip with my dad when I was a kid and I still remember it as one of the best outings we ever had.

  3. Cory G.

    If I could give this trip more stars I would! Absolutely, without a doubt one of the best vacations I’ve ever had in my life. This is one that EVERYONE should do at least once.

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