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Middle Fork of the Salmon

Basics
Location:
In the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness of central Idaho
River:
Salmon River
Class:
Class III - IV
River Length
96 miles
Time:
4 to 6 days
Season:
May to August

Description

The Middle Fork of the Salmon has frequently been rated one of the ten best whitewater raft trips in the world. Among the first recipients of the prestigious Wild and Scenic River designation, the Middle Fork is entirely enclosed in the sprawling Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness area, the largest wilderness area in the lower 48 states. Miles away from roads and cities, the Middle Fork of the Salmon is one of the most isolated rivers in the nation.

Six to eight day trips begin at Boundary Creek, on the edge of the wilderness area. This is the highest upstream the Middle Fork can safely be rafted, and early in the season may not yet be open. Shorter trips begin at Loon Creek, after a beautiful flight in a private plane.

In either case, rafters will float through pine-covered mountain slopes and narrow gorges, surrounded by wildlife and untouched natural splendor. Thrilling and frequent rapids of up to Class IV difficulty will keep rafters on the edge of their seat throughout the length of the river, and some of the technical stretches are not recommended for first-time rafters. At the end of the day, riverside hot springs invite a relaxing soak, and those wishing to stretch their legs can make use of hiking trails that adjoin the river.

Most trips end at Cache Bar, just after where the Middle Fork joins the Salmon River proper. From there, it’s about a 90 minute car ride to civilization in Salmon, Idaho.

River Details

Setting:
Forested canyons
Class:
Class III - IV
River Length
96 miles
Time
4 to 6 days
Season:
May to August
Guides Available?
Yes

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