Salmon River Rafting, Main Fork
 

Main Salmon River » Common Questions

» Flights, Hotel and Meeting Location - Travel Package
» Flights, Hotel and Meeting - Non-Travel Package
» Luggage and Valuables
» Camping Gear and Toilet Facitlites
» Clothing and Personal Checklist
» Weight Limits for Packing
» Whitewater, Weather, Fishing, & Gratuities
» Confirmations and Cancellations
» Choosing Your Adventure
» Physical Requirements For Guests
» A Typical Day On The River

 Acknowledgement of Risk Form
(Printable PDF from Action Whitewater)

 

Flights, Hotel and Meeting Location - Travel Package
Q. I am flying out to meet you. How do I get to Salmon, Idaho?

A: For guests flying into Boise, we strongly recommend the travel package described below:

Boise, Idaho Travel Package with 2 nights lodging ($310 per person)
Guests purchasing the Boise Idaho Travel Package will need to make travel arrangements to arrive in Boise by 6:00 PM the NIGHT PRIOR to your trip departure date. When you arrive the the Boise Airport you will catch a complimentaryu shuttle to the Vista Inn. All guests will meet on the lawn at the back of the hotel at 7:30 where your guides will meet you for an orientation meeting.

A continental breakfast will be available at 5:00 AM the morning of your trip departure date. You will meet at 5:30 AM to be transported to the Boise Airoport for a charter flight to Salmon, ID where you will begin your first day of rafting adventure.

For additional mileage information, please see our Mileage Finder.
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Q. Where will I be staying if I purchased the Boise Travel Package?

A. Reservations have been made for you at the following properties:

Day Prior to Departure
(travel package only):
Boise, ID

Vista Inn
2645 Airport Way
Boise, ID 83705
800-727-5004
208-336-8100

Day Prior to Departure:
Salmon, ID

Stagecoach Inn
201 Hwy 93 North
Salmon, ID 83467
208-756-2919

Last Day of Trip:
McCall, ID

Holiday Inn Express - Hunt Lodge
210 North 3rd Street
McCall, Idaho 83638
208-634-4700

A trip orientation will be held at the Stagecoach Inn in Salmon at 7:30 PM the evening prior to trip departure.
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Flights, Hotel and Meeting Location - Non-Travel Package
Q. I am driving. Where and when do I meet in Salmon?

A. If you are driving or renting a car in Boise and driving to Salmon, please meet on the lawn behind the Stagecoach Inn at 7:30 PM prior to trip departure for an orientation meeting.

Stagecoach Inn
201 Hwy 93 North
Salmon, ID 83467
208-756-4251

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Q. Where and when does this trip end?
A. On our last day on the Main Salmon we run rapids until we reach Carey Creek take-out. After a hearty farewell lunch, trip participants will travel by bus to McCall, ID.
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Q. How do I get my vehicle from Salmon to McCall?
A. If you drive to Salmon and want your vehicle shuttled to McCall, we recommend:

River Shuttles
512 Guleke
Salmon, Idaho 83467
800-831-8942
208-756-4188

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Luggage and Valuables
Q: What do I do with excess luggage?
A: Transfer all of your personal clothing and gear which you will need on the river expedition into a small lightweight duffel bag (approximately 14" X 21"). PLEASE DO NOT BRING SUITCASES ON THE RIVER! As part of your camping equipment package, we provide a water-resistant bag in which you will place your duffel bag (approx. 14" X 21") as well as the sleeping bag we provide for you. Ask your hotel about luggage storage while you are on the river. Most properties have complimentary storage for Western River Expeditions' guests.
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Q: What should I do with my valuables?
A: You will want to havegovernment issued ID and a major credit card with you in the event of an emergency evacuation due to injury. This very seldom happens, but we want you to be prepared. Since jewelry is a potential "loss" item on your river trip, we recommend you leave all valuables at home. You may want to have cash available for a tip for your guides or to purchase items at Western River Expeditions’ retail store. If you are returning to the same hotel at the end of your trip, you may wish to leave valuables in your hotel's safety deposit box.
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Camping Gear and Toilet Facilities
Q: What camping equipment is provided?
Camping equipment provided on your expedition includes sleeping bag with freshly laundered sheet, sleeping cot, plastic ground cloth, small tent, knife-fork-spoon and cup, water resistant gear bag for sleeping gear and your duffel bag, and a ammo can for personal articles and camera (bag is approximately 6" x 4" x 12").
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Q: When do I receive my camping equipment?
A: Camping equipment will be issued at orientation. You will have time to transfer your duffel bag, measuring no more than 12"x14"x30" (see our recommended duffel online), and personal articles to the water-resistant bag and personal day-use storage bag. Your ammo can for day-use items will be on the boat, and you will have ready access to it during the day. The water-resistant gear bags, however, are stacked and secured to the boat with tarps and ropes, allowing access only in camp.
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Q: What about toilet facilities?
A: AWA uses a "port a-potty" and hand wash system that is set up each day in camp in a secluded location that assures privacy. The toilet is available from the time we pull into camp until we leave the following day. An orientation concerning everything from rapid safety to bathrooms will be given at the beginning of your trip.
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Clothing and Personal Checklist
Q: What will I need to bring along on the trip?

Clothing Check List

  • Two-piece rain suit - a must for protection against the cold river water
  • 2 pair quick-drying shorts
  • 2 swimsuits (women may find a 2-piece suit or sports bra & jogging shorts convenient)
  • 1 pair long pants (nylon or cotton/polyester for quick drying)
  • Shirts (at least one long-sleeved shirt for sun protection)
  • Lightweight cotton pants or shorts & shirt for camp
  • Socks, some underwear (you'll probably be wearing swimsuit under shorts primarily)
  • Tennis shoes that can get wet for hiking. Water sandals may be worn, but may not give   enough support for the hikes. Be sure your shoes are broken in and that you bring socks.
  • Fleece jacket for camp or to wear under rain suit in cooler weather
  • Sun hat with string tied on to attach to shirt
  • Neoprene gloves to grip the ropes

** SPRING AND FALL TRIPS - cold water neoprene gloves & footwear, stocking cap,
fleece &/or polypropylene for warmth to wear under rain suit or in camp

Personal Check List

  • Plenty of sunscreen lotion (a must)
  • Sunscreen lip balm
  • Body lotion such as Vaseline Intensive Care
  • Biodegradable soap and shampoo in small bottles
  • Sport water bottle for hikes (also handy in camp) on a small fanny-pack.
  • Small towel and washcloth or a nylon net scrubbie works great for washing
  • Disposable moist towelettes
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Small pack of Kleenex
  • Flashlight & extra batteries (headlamps work best)
  • Insect repellant (small container)
  • Sunglasses with safety strap
  • Camera in a padded case, ziplock bag and plenty of film
  • (disposable and waterproof cameras work very well)
  • Small pillow
  • Feminine hygiene products (optional)
  • Shaving kit (optional)
  • Money (You'll want to keep some cash with you for gratuities for your guides - generally 8 - 10% of trip cost)
  • Pen and paper or small notebook/ marker to mark drinks
  • A few clothespins and small piece of rope for drying clothes
  • 1 small carabiner for hooking on cup or fanny pack (optional)
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Wetsuits for May and June Trips


Wetsuits are required in May and June, during high water trips. You may want to bring your own or rent one in Stanley. Please reserve in advance with:

RIVER WEAR
208-774-3592
800-753-4495

When you reserve in advance, please inform River Wear
that you are a guest of Action Whitewater.

Weight Limits for Packing
Q: What are the weight restrictions?
A: Boat-carrying capacities make it extremely important that each person bring no more than 20 pounds of clothing and personal items. This 20 pounds weight allowance does not include beverages or the provided camping gear.
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Whitewater, Weather, Fishing, & Gratuities
Q: How are the rapids?
A: In June, high water especially suited for the hearty adventurer while July through September offers good whitewater suitable for all experience levels plus great water for swimming and kayaking.
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Q: What kind of weather can I expect on my trip?

A: On the river, it's important to be prepared for all types of weather. Although the weather is warm and sunny for the most part, Mother Nature will occasionally surprise us with a renewing rainstorm or cooler temperatures. Temperatures can vary, but the following chart shows average temperature and precipitation for the months of May through September.

Temperatures and Precipitation - Central Idaho
 
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
Mean Max. Temp
69
78
87
86
75
Mean Min. Temp.
40
46
51
48
40
Precipitation
1.42
1.42
1.03
.82
.77

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Q: Is there any fishing on the Main Salmon River Trip?
A: Fly fishing and spin fishing are both common on the Main Salmon. For spin fishing 4 to 6 lb. test line is recommended with swivels and bright colored weight lures. Idaho regulations require barbless hooks or hooks with the barbs bent down on the Middle Fork. Fishing on the Middle Fork is catch and release only. Please bring collapsible poles and rigid pole cases. Fishing is best around August. You may purchase a short term non-resident license in Stanley prior to your trip. For complete fishing regulations please contact:

Idaho Department of Fish and Game
208-334-3700
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Q: What about gratuities?
A: Your guides will make every effort to see that your trip is enjoyable and memorable. Gratuities for guides are greatly appreciated and at your discretion, as a gesture of thanks for their professionalism and service. The average gratuity given on this trip is generally between 5-10% of the trip cost per person. The common practice is to give the gratuity to the trip leader on the last night. It will be later divided equally with the rest of the crew.
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Payments, Confirmations & Cancellations
Q: When do I need to pay my deposit?
A: To secure your space, an initial deposit of $300 per person is required for all Grand Canyon vacations, Cataract Canyon trips, Green River trips, and Idaho vacations. The deposit amount for the Colorado River Multisport Adventure is $200 per person. You may make this payment by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express) at the time of booking or you may send a check payable to:

Western River Expeditions
7258 Racquet Club Drive
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
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Q: When will I receive my confirmation and what should I do once it arrives?
A: As soon as we have processed your trip deposit, your confirmation packet will be sent. You should sign and complete the Visitor's Acknowledgement of Risk and Information Sheet and return them to us immediately. Your confirmation packet will also contain a packing list and clothing catalog, general questions and answers, helpful travel information, and cancellation insurance order form. If you booked through a travel agent, your confirmation will be sent to them for forwarding on to you.
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Q: When do I need to pay my balance?
A: Payment in full is due 90 days prior to trip departure and may be paid by check (preferably) or credit card. For your convenience, we will charge the balance due to your credit card 90 days prior to trip departure (if full payment has not been received). We reserve the right to cancel your reservation if full payment is not collected by the due date.
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Q: What if I must cancel my trip reservation?

A: If you must cancel any reservation, the information and reasons regarding the cancellation must be received in writing. The cancellation fee will follow the formula in the box below.

Cancellation Policies
Days Before Departure Service Charges and Fees
91 + days Deposit Amount
61-90 days Deposit Amount
0-60 days No Refunds or Transfers

This trip is run in conjunction with another company, and therefore refunds are not given. Our cancellation policy applies in every instance and there will be no exceptions for any reason. Western River Expeditions will not issue any refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early. Western is not responsible for any expenses incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. If you are concerned about the possibility of having to cancel, we strongly suggest you purchase trip cancellation insurance to protect your vacation investment.

Some of the most difficult situations we have had to deal with concern making a "win/win" out of a situation when a guest needs to cancel a few days before a trip because they broke their leg, an elderly parent suddenly gets sick, or some other catastrophic event requires cancellation. In these situations, we generally do not have time to refill the space. Yet, we have already spent considerable time, money, and energy preparing for your trip: scheduling vehicles, flights, drivers, guides and equipment, purchasing food, etc. Because of our short season and very limited number of available seats, we cannot afford the financial loss that cancellations cause. Therefore, in deciding whether or not to buy this insurance, consider the investment you are making in your vacation and whether or not you could afford the loss if you did have to cancel.

For only $7.00 per $100 of coverage, this insurance provides reimbursement of all applicable tour costs associated with your cancellation according to policy details. Please see policy order form for coverage details. You can also purchase more comprehensive coverage to insure travel delays, baggage loss and other travel-related issues. A policy order form will be enclosed with your confirmation packet. You may also print this insurance order form or order cancellation insurance online. Again, we highly recommend you purchase insurance to protect your investment as our cancellation policy will appy in every instance. Western River Expeditions assumes no financial responsibility for personal injury, emergency evacuation, or equipment lost or damaged in any way.

Transfers »
Trip and date transfers 60+ days prior to trip departure and within the current year will incur a $50 per reservation service charge. Trip and date transfers 60+ days prior to departure that are transferred into the following year will incur a $100 per person service charge. Once a trip has been transferred, no refunds will be issued. Transfer dates, reasons and information is required in writing. No refunds or transfers will be allowed within 0 to 60 days of trip departure for any reason.
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Click here to purchase your cancellation insurance online.

Choosing Your Adventure
Q: How Do I Best Choose My Adventure?
A: We want to make sure that the vacation package you select is an adventure of a lifetime. Rest assured, we will make every possible effort to ensure your comfort and safety while traveling with us. We have over a forty year history satisfied guests, and we are excited to have you join their ranks.

 

During the pre-trip planning process, we often receive a number of questions related to choosing which trip is best for you, the nature of a river trip, what to expect during the trip, and what degree of physical conditioning is required for a river trip. While we have found that we can accommodate a wide range of abilities on all of our rafting trips, the better prepared you are, the more you will enjoy yourself.

Physical Requirements
Q: What are the physcial requirements for trips?
A: Our primary concern is participant safety. The nature of an outdoor adventure involves some physical exertion and also possible exposure to weather conditions that can fluctuate greatly due to heat, sun, wind, or rain. Although we do have experience accommodating persons with a wide range of physical challenges, disabilities, or medical and health conditions, we have found that in some people the fact of age, weight, lack of conditioning, heart or other disease, can create additional hardship that diminishes the suitability or enjoyment of this type of vacation. Please consider these conditions in making your choice of river adventures. Please check with your physician prior to your trip if you have any medical or health condition or if you are taking any medications, and then notify us of how we can better help you with these conditions. In general, participants will need to meet the following physical requirements:

  • Fit into a Class 5 Life Jacket (maximum chest size 52” required by the National Park Service.
  • Securely grip ropes provided for handholds while running the rapids
  • Climb on and off the rafts. Depending on type of raft this could be as much as a 2-3-foot reach and often on wet and slippery surfaces.
  • Ability to navigate uneven terrain on hikes and in camp.
  • Carry your own dry bag which will include your 20-pound duffle bag along with the sleeping bag and ground cover we provide.


  • Our primary concern is for you and your fellow guests to have an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. If you are concerned about any of these requirements, please call our friendly staff to further discuss which trip is right for you. Our Acknowledgement of Risk Form will more fully describe some of the inherent risks involved in these activities. We look forward to having you join us on the adventure of a lifetime.

    Typical Day On The River
    Q: What can I expect a typical day on the river to be like?
    A:After meeting your guides you will be given a trip orientation that will include how and where you can sit on the rafts, how to hold on, and safety precautions while on the river.

    A typical day will include rafting for a few hours at a time, stopping for scenic side-canyon hikes, bathroom breaks, lunch and possible swimming opportunities. Visiting with new-found friends and learning river lore and geology from our well-trained guides adds to the enjoyment of each day.

    After a full day of learning and fun we arrive in camp. Camp will be set-up on your behalf by your guides. Cots, tents, sleeping bags, sheets, camp chair and water-proof gear bags will be provided for all guests. You’ll have no need to worry about bringing any of your own camping equipment.

    While you relax at the river’s edge, your guides will prepare dinner. Every night is different, but the menu may include items such as grilled chicken breast, steak with sautéed onions, pasta or fresh fish.

    At night, whether you choose to sleep in your tent or under the vast canopy of stars, the fresh night air and the rhythm of the river will lull you to sleep.

    Each morning, your guides will prepare a delicious breakfast. You’ll have a chance to enjoy eating before returning to your campsite to take down your tent and cot and pack up your belongings in your dry bag. After bringing your bag down to the boats, guests participate in the fireline once again and you are off on another fun-filled day of adventure.

    While a river trip is a participatory experience, the rewards are endless. The setting and pace of a rafting adventure gives you something you don’t find in other vacations. On a Western River Expedition, you will quickly discover why so many are calling this “the best vacation of their lives.” It’s the combination of drifting over tranquil pools of water under the shadows of towering rock formations, the exhilaration and thrill of rolling waves and crashing whitewater, the exploration of seldom-seen waterfalls and Native American history, the peaceful moments of reflection as you gaze up at the star-studded sky, and the fresh feeling of renewal as the morning sun slowly filters through winding canyons. All this provides an indescribable sense of belonging. A sense of oneness with yourself and those around you. A sense of adventure, reflection and renewal. Come discover the difference.

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