double clickMain Salmon River Rafting
Idaho Rafting
Main Salmon River

Main Salmon River

Rich in scenic wonders and history, the Main Salmon River drops 1,200 feet in 89 miles, creating some exciting memories along the way. The blue-green waters, known as the "River of No Return," warm up to very comfortable temperatures in July and August. Calm sections and deep pools are perfect for relaxing, swimming, and simply absorbing the country's splendor.

You'll enjoy sandy camping beaches backed up to pine forests and granite mountains. Here, wildlife abounds and rock paintings left by ancient inhabitants still exist. Homestead cabins dot the riverway, and some are still occupied today, made accessible by private jetboats and/or private planes.

Main Salmon River

  • Begins: Salmon, Idaho
  • Ends: McCall, Idaho
  • Season: June-August
  • River Distance: 82 miles
  • Rapids: Class II-IV
  • Boat Type: Oar, Paddle, Inflatable Kayak
  • Deposit: $500 per person
  • Minimum Age: June = 12
  • Minimum Age: July - August = 6
Adults(15+): From $2150
Youth (6-14): From $1850
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Whats Included

RAFTING Class II-IV whitewater rafting (rapids depend on water levels)
HIKING Short walks to longer, more difficult hikes (all optional).
MEALS Guides prepare all meals for you between departure and return.
CAMPING Cots, tents, sleeping bags, chairs and water-resistant personal storage box.
TRANSFERS Shuttle service from Salmon, Idaho to boat launch at Corn Creek. Return from river's edge to McCall, Idaho.

Not Included

TAXES & FEES Any applicable taxes and fees

TRAVEL PACKAGE
If you are flying into Boise, we offer the Travel Package to make your travel easier. Package includes:

-One night lodging at the Vista Inn in Boise, ID
-Flight from Boise to Salmon, ID to begin the trip
-One night lodging at the Third Street Inn in McCall, ID
-Ground transportation back to Boise, ID

PRE AND POST-TRIP LODGING WITH VEHICLE SHUTTLE
If you are driving to Salmon to begin your trip:

PRE-TRIP LODGING Stagecoach Inn, Salmon, ID
POST-TRIP LODGING Third Street Inn, McCall, ID
VEHICLE SHUTTLE SERVICE Salmon to McCall, ID

To add the Travel Package or any lodging and vehicle shuttle on a Main Salmon trip, please call our office at 801-942-6669.

Main Salmon River Rafting Reviews

Rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 2289 customer reviews

The memories will last a lifetime!

Roger - California
Words fail to express how great the guides were. After a hard day of rowing, they served up delicious meals, all with friendly conversation. They made the river trip an incredible memory. I am already going over the photos I took. The memories will last a lifetime. The staff and other guests were wonderful.

I miss the majesty of Idaho already!

Evan - Texas
I would definitely do this rafting trip again. I miss the majesty of Idaho already! My group and I have already been discussing making this an annual trip.

 

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Rafts on the Main Salmon River

Rafts on the Main Salmon River

The Main Salmon River trip travels a distance of close to 82 miles. Throughout each day you will have the chance to get off the rafts and stretch your legs on a hike to old homesteads, gorgeous overlooks, and maybe Native American pictographs.

You'll want to try the various rafts available on this multi-day expedition. There are three boat types to choose from, each one offering something very unique in ride and experience. You don't have to be an expert in whitewater rafting, or have any prior experience with river rafting to enjoy each raft type.

Learn more about the types of boats on the Main Salmon

Camping & Dining

Broad sandy beaches and warm river water for play, in a classic alpine setting make camp life on the Main Salmon simply sublime. Loaded with fun activities each night, from volleyball, super slides, or just chatting with new friends under a canopy of stars, the time spent on the beach really is one of the most memorable aspects of a river trip.

Learn more about camping & dining

  • One in a Million

    This trip was one in a million! We will always remember each guide with fondness. They made our trip perfect! The experience was one we will never forget! Thanks to you all!

    Karen - Illinois

Request your complimentary Expedition Guide

These comprehensive PDF guides include river maps, overview, full itineraries, camping and weather information, details on physical requirements, packing lists and more.

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Expedition Guide