Discover the best Middle Fork trip—an unforgettable six-day rafting adventure through Idaho's Frank Church?River of No Return Wilderness. Raft 100 miles of the crystal-clear Middle Fork of the Salmon River, tackling over 100 rapids and enjoying serene swimming holes, waterfalls, and panoramic hikes. Soak in natural hot springs, go fly fishing, and explore canyon beauty with expert guides. Choose between guide-led paddle rafting or relaxing in an oar boat—no experience needed. At day's end, enjoy gourmet riverside meals, campfires, and starry skies. This is the most complete and all-inclusive Middle Fork of the Salmon River rafting experience available in northern Idaho. Save on the Best Middle Fork Trip with special pricing for families and groups.
Discover the best Middle Fork trip—an unforgettable six-day rafting adventure through Idaho's Frank Church?River of No Return Wilderness. Raft 100 miles of the crystal-clear Middle Fork of the Salmon River, tackling over 100 rapids and enjoying serene swimming holes, waterfalls, and panoramic hikes. Soak in natural hot springs, go fly fishing, and explore canyon beauty with expert guides. Choose between guide-led paddle rafting or relaxing in an oar boat—no experience needed. At day's end, enjoy gourmet riverside meals, campfires, and starry skies. This is the most complete and all-inclusive Middle Fork of the Salmon River rafting experience available in northern Idaho. Save on the Best Middle Fork Trip with special pricing for families and groups.
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.
Welcome to Boise, Idaho! Arrive by 1:00 pm to begin your Middle Fork Salmon River rafting trip. After meeting your group and trip leaders, you'll board a scenic 45-minute flight to the charming mountain town of Stanley, Idaho, nestled at the foot of the Sawtooth Mountains and alongside the Salmon River. At 6:00 pm, gather on the back lawn of the Mountain Village Resort for a welcome orientation, where you’ll meet your professional guides and fellow adventurers. A laid-back picnic dinner follows, giving you time to ask questions and prepare for your week on the river. After dinner, return to your hotel and pack your waterproof river bags (provided) for an early morning departure into Idaho's backcountry wilderness.
Accommodation: Mountain Village Hotel
Transportation: 45-minute flight to Stanley
Meals: Dinner
Begin Your Middle Fork Rafting Trip
Day 2
Journey into one of America's most remote wilderness areas today. After breakfast, enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Boundary Creek, the official put-in for your Middle Fork of the Salmon River adventure. At the river's edge, meet your experienced Middle Fork rafting guides who will help you gear up and load into the oar rafts or paddle boats. Within minutes, you're paddling through the first exciting rapids—Sulphur Slide, Velvet Falls, The Chutes, and Powerhouse—as you enter deep into the heart of the Frank Church Wilderness. By late afternoon, you'll pull into a riverside camp—complete with scenic views, hiking trails, or nearby natural hot springs. Enjoy a chef-prepared meal, fireside chat, and fall asleep under a blanket of stars in this protected wilderness.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
Activity: 6 hours/6-15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Transportation: 2.5-hour private bus transfer (40-minute flight option if river levels are high/low)
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Paddle Pistol Creek on the Middle Fork
Day 3
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before diving into one of the most exciting rapids of the trip—Pistol Creek, a thrilling Class III rapid that kicks off another unforgettable day on the stunning Middle Fork Salmon River. As you float downstream, take in pristine wilderness views and enjoy access to inflatable “ducky” kayaks for more hands-on adventure (available on low-water trips). Paddle through Pongo Rapid, and stop by the historic Indian Creek Guard Station, where you'll learn about the region's early inhabitants and conservation efforts. Around 5:00 pm, you'll coast into camp after covering roughly 15 miles. Settle in, relax, and enjoy another riverside gourmet dinner as the sun sets over Idaho's canyon country.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
Activity: 6 hours/6-15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover Hot Springs & Rock Art on the Salmon River
Day 4
Your fourth day on the river begins with Marble Falls and Ski Jump rapids—two more whitewater highlights. As the water mellows, it's the perfect opportunity for fly fishing, a refreshing swim, or a soak in natural hot springs at Sunflower or Loon Creek—a favorite part of the best Middle Fork trips.
After lunch, hike to see ancient Sheepeater pictographs, rock art left by the Indigenous people who once called these canyon walls home. The day's 15-mile stretch ends at a scenic riverside campsite, where you can enjoy another peaceful night surrounded by nature.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
Activity: 6 hours/6-15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy the Middle Fork's Big Rapids & Wildlife
Day 5
Today, you'll tackle some of the Middle Fork's most iconic rapids, including Tappan I, Tappan Falls, New Tappan, and Aparajo. These exciting sections make this day a highlight of many travelers' best Middle Fork trip memories. Keep an eye on the canyon walls for bighorn sheep, river otters, and bald eagles, and explore archaeological remnants like Sheepeater pit dwellings carved into the riverbanks. In the afternoon, pass by Kaufman's Cave, the remote hideaway of a Scottish prospector who once called this wilderness home.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
Activity: 6 hours/6-15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experience Middle Fork Majesty in the Impassable Canyon
Day 6
Welcome to the Impassable Canyon, one of the most visually stunning sections of the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. Here, granite cliffs rise steeply from the riverbanks, showcasing dramatic folds in the rock—a geologic record of Idaho's wild past. Challenge yourself with a thrilling lineup of rapids: Driftwood, Haystack, Bernard Creek, Earthquake Jack Creek, and Goalpost. Midday, take a scenic hike to Veil Falls, a hidden waterfall tucked into a box canyon. Later, you'll pass by historic sites like the Earl Parrot homestead, before pulling into camp for your final night on the river.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp-Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
Activity: 6 hours/6-15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ride Rapids & Return to Salmon, Idaho
Day 7
Your last day on the river offers some of the biggest whitewater of the trip, including Foreplay, Rubber, Rubber II, and Hancock Rapids—a true grand finale to your Middle Fork rafting adventure. By midday, you'll reach the confluence of the Middle Fork and Main Salmon River, where your river journey ends. After a warm farewell to the guides, return to Salmon, Idaho for a stay at the Stagecoach Inn. Clean up, toast the adventure with your crew, and enjoy a celebratory evening in this charming riverside town.
Accommodation: Stagecoach Inn
Activity: 6 hours/6-15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Transportation: 2-3-hour bus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Depart Idaho After the Best Middle Fork Trip
Day 8
Enjoy one final breakfast before boarding a shuttle to the regional airport for your scheduled flight back to Boise, Idaho. As you leave the mountains behind, reflect on the week's adventure—arguably the best Middle Fork trip you'll ever experience.
MT Sobek has 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. 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.
Itinerary While this itinerary offers a general overview of your rafting trip, each adventure is unique. Water levels and campsite assignments from the U.S. Forest Service can change weekly, which may impact the daily schedule. Think of this itinerary as a helpful snapshot, not a fixed plan.
Accommodations The small-town rural Idaho accommodations on this trip provide great access to the river but are simpler compared to what you'll find on many MT Sobek trips—rooms and amenities are more basic, though Wi-Fi is available. On the river, your dome-style tent—large enough to stand up in—will be set up in a scenic location with everything you need for a good night's sleep, and outstanding meals will be prepared by your guides.
Dates & Prices
2026
Go Private
Go Custom
Inclusions
2026
Scheduled Dates
Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
Gather your favorite travel companions—family, friends, colleagues, or club—and enjoy an exclusive departure that’s easy to book and completely unforgettable.
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.
Bridger B.
Bridger grew up in Salmon, Idaho, along the banks of the Salmon River. He guided his first multi-day rafting trip at just 15 and has been on the water ever since. Since that first trip, he’s guided rivers from the Tatshenshini in Alaska and Canada to the Rio Grande through Big Bend National Park on the Texas-Mexico border. Bridger has been certified as a Wilderness First Responder and Swiftwater Rescue Technician for the past six years, and he plans to continue expanding his skills in emergency medicine and technical outdoor training. Today, he still calls Salmon home and he proudly holds the title as the worst player on the local beer league hockey team.
Andrew P.
Andrew grew up in Western Colorado with a twin brother, two younger sisters, and parents who all enjoyed camping and exploring the mountains and river valleys of the west. His parents instilled a curiosity and respect about the natural world in him, and an expectation of high academic achievement. After completing his degree in Applied Mathematics from the University of Colorado Boulder, he found his awe of the natural world was what led him forward and began guiding rafting and teaching skiing in 2013. His explorations have taken him to the top of Denali, the rocky crags of Spain, glacial valleys in the French Alps, and rafting as many rivers as possible.
Dominic H.
Dominic is a man of many interests, not the least of which is guiding river trips! He believes nature has a way of healing people and wishes to share the wilderness experience with everyone he meets. He has been guiding on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River since 2021 and looks forward to many more years on the water. When he’s not sharing his love of nature on the river, he is studying literature and philosophy or producing music. Experience Dominic’s positive attitude on our Idaho rafting trips.
Welcome to Boise, Idaho! Arrive by 1:00 pm to begin your Middle Fork Salmon River rafting trip. After meeting your group and trip leaders, you\'ll board a scenic 45-minute flight to the charming mountain town of Stanley, Idaho, nestled at the foot of the Sawtooth Mountains and alongside the Salmon River. At 6:00 pm, gather on the back lawn of the Mountain Village Resort for a welcome orientation, where you’ll meet your professional guides and fellow adventurers. A laid-back picnic dinner follows, giving you time to ask questions and prepare for your week on the river. After dinner, return to your hotel and pack your waterproof river bags (provided) for an early morning departure into Idaho\'s backcountry wilderness.
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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/6-15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Day 3
6 hours/6-15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Day 4
6 hours/6-15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Day 5
6 hours/6-15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Day 6
6 hours/6-15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
Day 7
6 hours/6-15 miles rafting Class II to Class IV rapids
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
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 cots, pillows with covers and professionally laundered sleeping bags and liners. Portable showers are available for bathing periodically. 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
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.
