Join our expert river guides on this epic backcountry adventure, frequently cited as the world's best river trip! Crest more than 100 unforgettable rapids rafting 100 miles down the Middle Fork of the Salmon River in Idaho. Deep in the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness this sparkling clear waterway was one of America's first designated Wild and Scenic Rivers. The days are filled with a variety of exciting activities from whitewater rafting to swimming; fly fishing, relaxing in natural hot springs, cooling off under refreshing waterfalls, and many optional hikes to stunning views of the canyon. Choose to dig in and actively participate on a guide-led paddle boat or sit back and take in the scenery on the oar boat-no experience necessary! At the end of each day, pull into camp to feast on delicious food cooked by your guides and enjoy an evening of fun and camaraderie. Enjoy the best, most all-inclusive, Middle Fork of the Salmon River rafting trip in beautiful Northern Idaho.
In addition to savings for families and groups, please note that the internal airfare cost is optional for those driving to the river. Also, if you do not require pre-and-post lodging you can save a further $200 on the per-person trip price.
Join our expert river guides on this epic backcountry adventure, frequently cited as the world's best river trip! Crest more than 100 unforgettable rapids rafting 100 miles down the Middle Fork of the Salmon River in Idaho. Deep in the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness this sparkling clear waterway was one of America's first designated Wild and Scenic Rivers. The days are filled with a variety of exciting activities from whitewater rafting to swimming; fly fishing, relaxing in natural hot springs, cooling off under refreshing waterfalls, and many optional hikes to stunning views of the canyon. Choose to dig in and actively participate on a guide-led paddle boat or sit back and take in the scenery on the oar boat-no experience necessary! At the end of each day, pull into camp to feast on delicious food cooked by your guides and enjoy an evening of fun and camaraderie. Enjoy the best, most all-inclusive, Middle Fork of the Salmon River rafting trip in beautiful Northern Idaho.
In addition to savings for families and groups, please note that the internal airfare cost is optional for those driving to the river. Also, if you do not require pre-and-post lodging you can save a further $200 on the per-person trip price.
MT Sobek has been running this expert-led trip for more than 20 years and is an equal opportunity employer, operating under a special use permit within the Salmon-Challis National Forest.
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Highlights
Have a blast on one of National Geographic's top-rated whitewater rafting trips, deep in the heart of Idaho's Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness
Paddle or float to suit your activity level and choose a new experience every day-this trip is great for all ages and all activity levels; it is like summer camp for the whole family!
Compare the value! We offer the most inclusive Middle Fork trip, with all your travel arrangements, transportation and lodging, carefully orchestrated for a worry-free vacation.
Arrive in Boise Idaho, Idaho by 1:00 pm today. After a brief orientation, we will fly as a group to Stanley, Idaho, spectacularly set along the banks of the Salmon River at the base of the Sawtooth Mountains. Meet your guides on the back lawn of the Mountain Village Resort for a 6:00 pm welcome orientation meeting followed by a casual picnic dinner. Head back to your hotel to pack up your provided waterproof river bags for the early start the next morning.
Accommodation: Mountain Village Hotel
Transportation: 45-minute flight
Meals: Dinner
Journey to the Put-in at Boundary Creek
Day 2
Ride the bus to Boundary Creek in the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness and meet your team of river guides. Under their expert captainship, you will climb aboard the oar boat or raft, and set off to encounter the first of the Middle Fork's rapids: Sulphur Slide, Velvet Falls, the Chutes, and Powerhouse. In late afternoon, arrive at one of the Middle Fork's beautiful campgrounds with breathtaking views, natural hot springs, or trails to explore. Every night, you will enjoy appetizers and a delicious meal prepared by the guides, followed by hot drinks and a campfire.
NOTE: Depending on water levels, extreme high or low water levels may require that we change the put-in location from Boundary Creek to Indian Creek, located 26 miles further down the river. The Indian Creek put-in is accessible only by air. Therefore, in the event that we need to put in at Indian Creek, MT Sobek will arrange internal flights from Stanley to the Indian Creek Airstrip on day-2, for an additional fee. High water can occur in early to mid-June, while low water can occur at any point in July, though typically not until August.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
Activity: 6 hours/15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Transportation: 2.5-hour bus transfer (40-minute flight if water levels too high or low)
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Get Started with Pistol Creek Rapid
Day 3
After breakfast, Class III rapid Pistol Creek provides an exciting jump-start to the day. After lunch, water permitting, inflatable "ducky" kayaks are available for thrill-seekers looking to paddle through the rapids on their own (available on all low-water trips). Make a stop at the Indian Creek Guard Station on the river's left bank to learn a bit about the history of the area, then it's back into the boats to traverse Pongo rapid and coast into camp around 5:00 pm. You have traveled about 15 miles downriver today.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
Activity: 6 hours/15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore Sunflower/Loon Creek Hot Springs
Day 4
Marble Falls and Ski Jump rapids start off the day. The calm water that follows makes this a good day to fly-fish or take a refreshing swim. You may also stop at the hot springs at Sunflower or Loon Creek for a relaxing soak while keeping an eye out for mountain goats and bighorn sheep. After lunch, take a short hike to one of the cliffs along the river that showcases Sheepeater pictographs. Enjoy a few more rapids before pulling into camp after about 15 miles on the river.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
Activity: 6 hours/15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ride the River to Tappan Falls
Day 5
The 15-20 miles you travel today offer some of the Middle Fork's most thrilling rapids, including Tappan I, Tappan Falls, New Tappan, and Aparajo. Look for bighorn sheep grazing along the shore as you paddle by, as well as bald eagles, osprey, herons, river otters, and black bears. You can also see shallow circular depressions in the ground on the riverbanks: the sites of Sheepeater pit dwellings. In the afternoon, pass by Kaufman's Cave, where the Scottish prospector Clarence Kaufman lived for four years.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
Activity: 6 hours/15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Coast into the Impassable Canyon
Day 6
Today brings you into the Impassable Canyon, home to truly spectacular scenery: reddish-gray granite cliffs looming over the water, and sharp rock strata folds-the striking evidence of the canyon's geologically tumultuous past. Get ready to experience some serious whitewater through Driftwood, Haystack, Bernard Creek, Earthquake Jack Creek, and Goalpost rapids. After lunch, make the steep hike to Veil Falls, then back on the river, pass through Weber, Redside and Cliffside rapids and view the 1900s homestead of Earl Parrot. Back at camp, enjoy a special last-night dinner.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
Activity: 6 hours/15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Celebrate in Salmon, Idaho
Day 7
We cap off our adventure by rafting 10 miles of the biggest rapids of the trip: Foreplay, Rubber, Rubber II, and Hancock. After a thrilling morning, reach the confluence of the Middle Fork and the Main Salmon River. Leave your boats behind and board a bus to Salmon for a late-afternoon arrival at the Stagecoach Inn. Enjoy a hot shower, attend a post trip toast and celebration on the back lawn of the hotel, then the opportunity to dine out and explore Salmon on your own this evening.
Accommodation: Stagecoach Inn
Activity: 3 hours/10 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Transportation: 2-3-hour bus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Fly to Boise, Idaho
Day 8
An early morning shuttle service will provide transfers from the Stagecoach Inn to the local regional airport for your scheduled flights back to Boise. Salmon is also 3 hours west of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, the gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks if you are looking to extend your adventure in the region.
MT Sobek has operated small-group rafting adventures on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River for over 17 years. Join us on one of the world's greatest river trips!
Professional river guides follow Leave No Trace policies to maintain a pristine environment and will wow you with their wilderness cooking skills.
Compare the value! We offer the most inclusive Middle Fork trips, with all your travel arrangements, transportation, and lodging, carefully orchestrated for a worry-free vacation.
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Levi W.
Levi grew up in rural Kansas. From flowing fields of wheat to the flowing rivers of the Southwest, Levi has always had a passion for the natural world. He’s been guiding since 2016, running rivers in Utah, Colorado, Idaho, Montana and Mexico, and hiking adventures in Texas and Utah. He enjoys opening the door to new experiences for guests. As the son of a writer, he has inherited a passion for bringing a unique perspective to sharing his insights and stories in nature.
Brendan T.
Brendan Tomb grew up inside Adirondack Park as one of a set of triplets, collectively referred to as the “Boyz” by their mother. Spending their childhood in the first Forever Wild Forest Preserve in the country, the “Boyz” were introduced at an early age to the wonders of hiking, rafting, and Nordic and alpine skiing. Brendan then set out on his own path, competing on the Rugby team while attending Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland. Today you can find him sharing his passion for the outdoors—teaching snow sports in the winter, leading National Park hikes in the spring and fall, and guiding our rafting trips each summer. Brendan is dedicated to sharing his enthusiasm for nature and adventure with others, making each season an opportunity to explore and appreciate the wonders of the outdoors.
Paul B.
Born and raised in the foothills of western North Carolina, Paul’s farm town roots combined with outdoor leadership in his young adult years fostered a deep love for the Earth and a strong instinct to see what lies beyond the familiar horizon. After completing his undergraduate degree at UNC-Chapel Hill, he moved to the Rocky Mountains, living in Colorado, Montana, and Idaho, and worked as a horseman, ranch foreman and hunting outfitter, and search and rescue professional. Since 2025 he has spent winters as a ski instructor in Colorado and summers as a river guide and trip leader for MT Sobek in Utah, Idaho, and Montana.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 2. Previous rafting experience is not necessary. However, you need to be in good physical condition. Since we are in a remote wilderness location. Each day, loading and unloading into the raft can be on sandy beaches or uneven rocky shores. It is a necessity that all travelers are stable and sturdy on their feet in uneven terrain. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
6 hours/15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Day 3
6 hours/15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Day 4
6 hours/15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Day 5
6 hours/15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Day 6
6 hours/15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Day 7
3 hours/10 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Accommodations
A comfortable hotel in Stanley, followed by MT Sobek's deluxe riverside camps, with meals served around the campfire beneath the stars.
Begin your Middle Fork adventure in Stanley's Mountain Village Lodge, shadowed by the jagged teeth of the Sawtooth Mountain Range on the Salmon River. The comfortable guest rooms are well-appointed with modern amenities, fitting a mountain inn. You can also enjoy a cold beer at the Mountain Village Saloon with your fellow adventurers.
MT Sobek Camp-Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
Your Middle Fork camping experience includes five nights on the banks of Idaho's Salmon River, with full porterage and set up. Our dome-style tents are large enough to stand in, and include sleeping pads, and professionally laundered sleeping bags. You can even take a sun-heated shower after a day on the water. All camping spots are on beautiful beaches or plateaus next to the river, with fantastic views every day.
A historic gem in the scenic town of Salmon, Idaho, the Stagecoach Inn exudes charm and character. Dating back to the early 20th century, this quaint inn has been a witness to the region's rich history and transformation. The inn's cozy rooms are tastefully decorated, offering a blend of comfort and nostalgia. The Stagecoach Inn's central location in Salmon makes it a convenient base for exploring the nearby natural wonders, including the breathtaking Salmon River and the rugged landscapes of the Salmon-Challis National Forest.
Weather
Summer daytime temperatures range between 60-90°F, and evenings between 40-60°F. June trips are cooler. Salmon River water temperatures average 58-65°F.
Jun
Jul
Salmon, Idaho
High
Low
High
Low
Salmon, Idaho
78
48
85
53
Stanley, Idaho
High
Low
High
Low
Stanley, Idaho
69
34
79
36
Know Before You Book
Itinerary Actual itinerary routes vary from departure to departure depending on environmental conditions and group abilities. Please call for more details about each departure.
Accommodations The small town rural Idaho accommodations on this trip provide great access to the river activities in the area. However, they are simpler compared to what we usually consider comfortable lodging-the rooms and hotel amenities being more basic, though WiFi, ice and other standard amenities are available. The accommodations are walking distance to stores, coffee shops, and restaurants. Overall, the service might feel a bit slower and meal quality and selection more limited compared to many other MT Sobek trips.
FAQs
Where do I meet the group on the first day?
Please arrive in Boise, ID (BOI) by 1:00 pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Your guide will meet you and your fellow travelers at the airport for a brief welcome before boarding your flight from Boise, ID to Stanley, ID. Upon arrival in Stanley, you will check in to your hotel followed by a casual welcome orientation and dinner. Those who prefer to drive to Stanley can meet at the hotel in Stanley at 6pm.
Do I need to have prior rafting experience to raft the Middle Fork of the Salmon River?
This trip is rated activity Level 2. Previous rafting experience is not necessary, but you need to be in good physical condition. This trip occurs in a remote wilderness location, where each day loading and unloading into the raft can be on sandy beaches or uneven, rocky shores. It is a necessity that all travelers are stable and sturdy on their feet in uneven terrain.
What is the maximum group size on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River?
For scheduled departures, the maximum number of guests that we can take is 20 and the minimum is 7. You can sign up as a solo, as a couple, or as a small or large group until we max out our space. Looking to take over an entire date for your own private group? Call us on 800-974-0300 for more details.
Is this Middle Fork of the Salmon River rafting trip good for families?
Yes, the Middle Fork of the Salmon river is an excellent trip for small and large families and no prior rafting experience is required. Rafting the Middle Fork of the Salmon offers families a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable experience for all ages. Check out our current family savings!
Scenic Beauty: The Middle Fork of the Salmon flows through the heart of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, offering breathtaking scenery characterized by towering cliffs, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. Families can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and create lasting memories together. Mild Rapids: While the Middle Fork features thrilling rapids, they are generally of moderate difficulty, making it suitable for families with children. Experienced guides navigate the river safely, ensuring an exciting yet manageable adventure for everyone on board. Adventure for All Ages: From children (7+) to grandparents, the Middle Fork provides opportunities for every family member to participate in the adventure. Whether it's paddling through rapids, swimming in calm stretches, or exploring scenic hikes along the riverbanks, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Educational Opportunities: Rafting the Middle Fork offers valuable educational experiences for children, allowing them to learn about river ecosystems, wildlife, and local history from knowledgeable guides. It's a hands-on learning adventure that fosters curiosity and appreciation for the natural world. Quality Time Together: Rafting trips on the Middle Fork provide uninterrupted quality time for families to unplug and reconnect without the distractions of daily life. Professional Guidance & Safety: Professional rafting outfitters on the Middle Fork prioritize safety above all else, ensuring that families can enjoy their adventure with peace of mind. Experienced guides provide thorough safety briefings, instruction on rafting techniques, and are equipped with necessary safety gear to handle any situation that may arise.
What is the minimum age for the Middle Fork of the Salmon River trip?
The minimum age on our family friendly departures is 7. For any other departure, the minimum age is 18.
What is the difference between the 75-mile trip and this 100-mile rafting trip?
The 100-mile trip in June and July starts at Mile 1 at Boundary Creek and runs to the take out at Cache Creek, just after the Middle Fork of the Salmon and main Salmon merge. When the water levels go down in August it is more challenging to run the upper section of the Middle Fork, so we fly into Indian Creek at mile 25. The rest of the 75-mile trip is the same as the 100-mile version. Both MT Sobek Middle Fork options have been created for a stress-free experience, including both pre-and-post hotels and flights.
What is the best month to raft the Middle Fork of the Salmon River?
The best time to run the Middle Fork of the Salmon River is between June and August. Every year varies in weather and snowpack, but the river is highest in June and the water levels gradually recede through July and August. June begins with the most exciting rapids, but some days can still be cool and rainy, and the water is colder. The high water allows for fast travel on the raft and the cooler temperatures are often excellent for hiking. In July, the water is still high enough to float the upper 25-mile section, but the weather and water are warmer allowing for more water play: swimming, using inflatable kayaks, and more. Many of us secretly love August! The water is lower, but the exposed rocks make the rapids more technical and require a skillful guide. The expanded beaches and the crystal-clear water afford lots of opportunities for playing both in and out of the water. MT Sobek runs Middle Fork trips in June, July, and August.
Are meals and camping included on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River?
Yes, your Middle Fork of the Salmon River rafting experience includes all meals and snacks. Wine and beer are not included but can be brought on the trip for personal consumption. We also provide all the camping gear including roomy dome tents, camping pads, and freshly laundered sleeping bags. Each day, our set-up team will raft ahead to ensure that everything is ready for you when you arrive at camp.
What experience does MT Sobek have on the river?
We have been operating trips on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River since 2007 and Sobek has been a pioneering rafting company for more than 50 years. Our operation is fully permitted with the Salmon-Challis National Forest, and we are one of a few commercial outfitters allowed to run the Middle Fork of the Salmon River each year.
Are there any group savings?
Yes, we offer two ways to enjoy group savings on many adventures in North America, including this one. Either bring a group of 10 and receive 10% off per person or opt for an eleventh person to go for free! Call our expert Trip Consultants on 800-974-0300 to discuss group savings options.
