Salmon River Rafting

56 miles of The Salmon River is the longest and largest river in the lower 48 States that is completely without dams. This is the last section of "The River of no Return" before it joins the Snake River on its journey to the Columbia, and the Pacific Ocean. On this section of river our trips last for 4 days and cover 56 miles. Along the way we float through three different canyons named, Cougar, Snowhole, and Blue; hence the name, Salmon River Canyons.

On the Canyons of the Salmon River our most popular river trip is 4 days. Five days is also an option by adding on Green Canyon. The canyons are immense, dramatic and huge. Flowing grass blowing in the wind on the high mountain sides, and sheer canyon walls let you know we are in the middle of nowhere. We camp by our selves on huge beaches. At night you can gaze up between the canyon walls at the multitude of stars as they lull you to sleep. These trips begin and end in Lewiston, Idaho. There are no access points once we leave the launch site. The Salmon River joins with the Snake River and most of our last day is spent on the Snake River. Our schedule is more flexible on this trip, please call with your specific date. Transportation is provided from Lewiston to our put-in at Pine Bar, and from our take out at Hellar Bar on the Snake River.

Whitewater and Beaches

Of all the different sections of the Salmon, these canyons offer the most idyllic rafting and camping conditions. Day time temperatures are between 85 - 100 degrees, and night time temps stay in the 70's. The water is warm, and great for swimming. We camp on large pure white sand beaches. Along the way there's plenty of time for hiking, fishing, beach volleyball, or just relaxing with a good book. And of course there is the whitewater. Ranging from class II - IV, it is a great river for first timers or experienced whitewater junkies. Needless to say they are lots of fun, and perfect for paddle rafts, and inflatable kayaks. You'll run through rapids such as; Demon's Drop, Pine Bar, Bodacious Bounce, Half &Half, Snow Hole, China, Zig Zag, Slide, Sluicebox, Checkerboard, Eye of the Needle, and countless more.

Ancient and Modern History

During the trip, you'll visit several sites of historic significance. Rock paintings, called pictographs, pit house remains, used by the Nez Perce, and stories of their struggle. There are also old mining sites worked by the Chinese during the late 1800's. Through hikes, stories, and interpretation we hope you'll gain an appreciation of these historic treasures.

Wildlife

These Canyon's are also home to a variety of wildlife including whitetail and mule deer, black bear, the loveable river otter, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, a variety of birds of prey, song birds, and waterfowl. We are sure to see plenty of birds, and if we are lucky we will see some of the larger land mammals.

Fishing

We provide everything for you to catch a fish. It is almost a guarantee if you have never caught a fish we can help you. Our guides will help the kids with their tangles and baiting hooks. If you are an avid fisherperson expect to catch your fill. Smallmouth bass, catfish, steelhead, salmon, and catch and release white sturgeon. We usually practice catch and release for all fish however, if would like us to cook a big one we are happy to serve it up.

Cast and Blast

These canyon are also home to chukar partridge, and steelhead, which gives us great opportunity for cast and blast trips in the fall. Call or email for availability and information.

Salmon River Service

This is a full service trip; each day our gear boat travels ahead to set up camp, and secure the best beaches. When we arrive in camp, around 4:00 your tents are pitched, bags are up the bank, and the camp is all ready for you to settle in for the night. The guides set up and take down your tents, fill your wine glass, serve appetizers, make incredible meals, and do all the camp chores.

Trip logistics

Trips begin and end in Lewiston, Idaho. Accommodations are provided the night before the trip. We have a pre-trip meeting around 7:00 PM to hand out river bags and answer any last minute questions. Early the next morning breakfast is provided by the hotel. We will leave at about 8:00 AM and have about a 2 hour drive to the launch site. Transportation is provided round trip from Lewiston. Extra luggage and your car can be stored at the hotel in Lewiston.

Getting to Lewiston is easy. It is served by Alaska Airlines, and Delta. You can also fly into Spokane, Washington. It is just a two hour drive from Lewiston. We can help set up transportation from there. You can also rent a car in Spokane, and leave it at the Sacajawea while we are on the trip.

Once you reserve your space for the trip we will send you a complete packing list, travel directions, and a trip itinerary. We are also happy to help with any pre or post trip travel plans. We know the area. Come join us!

One and Two Day Trips

1 Day Whitewater Adventure

Spring Bar to Lucile Recreation Site
20 miles
Join us at Riggins, the Whitewater Capital. Ride the waves in Time Zone, Tight Squeeze, Traps Creek and Black Rock, just to name a few. If our self-bailing paddle and rowing rafts aren't exciting enough to suit your thrill level, hop into an inflatable kayak. The "pool and drop" Salmon River offers calm pools between rapids; a great time for photos or just lounging around. For lunch, no one puts on a better riverside deli lunch than HCR. We serve up plenty of deli turkey, ham, roast beef, hummus, cheeses, fresh salads, breads, fruits, vegetables, chips, and cookies. We provide waterproof containers for cameras and other items. We also arrange with a local professional photographer to take your picture at Time Zone Rapids. This one day whitewater adventure is perfect for groups, reunions, and parties, as well as adventurous individuals. Trips run almost everyday June - September, call for availability.
image provided by SR photo

2 Day Whitewater Adventure

Vinegar Creek to Lucile Recreation Site
38 miles

Add a new dimension to your whitewater adventure - like camping along the river on a beautiful sandy beach; enjoying a great steak dinner, Idaho garlic mashed potatoes, a garden salad, and Dutch oven treats, (maybe even a s'more). Camaraderie around the campfire, and falling asleep out under the open summer skies, it doesn't get much better. We raft 19 miles per day and camp near Spring Bar Campground. The first day is spent floating the more scenic upper section and the second day rafting the more challenging Riggins stretch where we run our 1-day adventures. Try your hand at the inflatable kayaks, join the crew in a paddle boat, or kick back on an oar-boat the view and the ride are spectacular. We provide all the camping equipment (tents, mattresses, and freshly laundered sleeping bags) which makes it easy for you to just show up with your clothing. We take care of the rest. This trip meets in Riggins and ends in Riggins. Trips can be started most any time; call with your specific date.