Idaho Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting

Stanley, Idaho to Salmon, Idaho

Idaho Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting
No experience required when you join our crew 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! At the end of each day, pull into camp to feast on delicious food cooked by your guides and enjoy an evening of fun around the campfire. Enjoy the best Middle Fork of the Salmon River rafting trip in beautiful Northern Idaho.
  • 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's like summer camp for the whole family!
  • Camp in style with comfortable tents, thick custom sleep pads, delicious dinners, solar-powered hot showers, and relaxing camp chairs

Minimum Age: 6
Interests
  • Adventure and Active
6 Nights Starting At
June 22, 2023 through June 28, 2023
Book by:
June 18, 2023 7:00 PM
Itinerary Overview
Day 2
Journey to the Put-in at Boundary Creek
Day 3
Get Started with Pistol Creek Rapid
Day 4
Explore Sunflower/Loon Creek Hot Springs
Day 5
Ride the River to Tappan Falls
Day 6
Coast into the Impassable Canyon
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Dates & prices
Additional
Offers
June 22, 2023

to June 28, 2023

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
June 18, 2023 7:00 PM
June 30, 2023

to July 06, 2023

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
June 26, 2023 7:00 PM
July 08, 2023

to July 14, 2023

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
July 04, 2023 7:00 PM
July 16, 2023

to July 22, 2023

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
July 12, 2023 7:00 PM
July 24, 2023

to July 30, 2023

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
July 20, 2023 7:00 PM
August 01, 2023

to August 07, 2023

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
July 28, 2023 7:00 PM
August 09, 2023

to August 15, 2023

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
August 05, 2023 7:00 PM
August 17, 2023

to August 23, 2023

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
August 13, 2023 7:00 PM
June 04, 2024

to June 10, 2024

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
May 31, 2024 7:00 PM
June 16, 2024

to June 22, 2024

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
June 12, 2024 7:00 PM
June 22, 2024

to June 28, 2024

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
June 18, 2024 7:00 PM
June 30, 2024

to July 06, 2024

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
June 26, 2024 7:00 PM
July 08, 2024

to July 14, 2024

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
July 04, 2024 7:00 PM
July 16, 2024

to July 22, 2024

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
July 12, 2024 7:00 PM
July 24, 2024

to July 30, 2024

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
July 20, 2024 7:00 PM
August 01, 2024

to August 07, 2024

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
July 28, 2024 7:00 PM
August 09, 2024

to August 15, 2024

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
August 05, 2024 7:00 PM
August 17, 2024

to August 23, 2024

6 Nights from $3,295.00 (USD) Per Person
August 13, 2024 7:00 PM
Additional
Offers
June 22, 2023

June 28, 2023

June 30, 2023

July 06, 2023

July 08, 2023

July 14, 2023

July 16, 2023

July 22, 2023

July 24, 2023

July 30, 2023

August 01, 2023

August 07, 2023

August 09, 2023

August 15, 2023

August 17, 2023

August 23, 2023

June 04, 2024

June 10, 2024

June 16, 2024

June 22, 2024

June 22, 2024

June 28, 2024

June 30, 2024

July 06, 2024

July 08, 2024

July 14, 2024

July 16, 2024

July 22, 2024

July 24, 2024

July 30, 2024

August 01, 2024

August 07, 2024

August 09, 2024

August 15, 2024

August 17, 2024

August 23, 2024

Accommodations
MT Sobek: Idaho Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting

Day: 1, duration: 1
Mountain Village Hotel

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.

Day: 2, duration: 5
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.

Guides
MT Sobek: Idaho Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting

Kevin McDermott
Kevin McDermott—a.k.a. "Thirsty"—has been guiding since he was 17 years old and has been an integral part of MT Sobek's Arctic rivers program for decades. His laid-back manner puts everyone at ease, and he has a wealth of knowledge about Arctic rivers. Although he normally spends his winter months in Colorado's Telluride ski area, he has climbed Denali three times, reaching the summit in 2000. Thirsty is a legend in the MT Sobek circle and endears himself to travelers with his expertise, calm demeanor, and sense of humor.





Andy Ambelang
Andy was born and raised in the great outdoors of Montana. At the young age of 15, he launched his first trip down the Salmon River in Idaho and has never looked back! He spends his summers guiding down the Salmon before heading over to the Colorado River in springtime and fall to guide through the Grand Canyon. Internationally, he has led trips in Nepal, Ethiopia’s Blue Nile River, and Madagascar’s Mania River. In the off season, Andy works as a ski patroller at Montana Snowbowl and skis with his dog Dani every chance he can get.





Mandela Van Eeden
Mandela was raised on a nature reserve at the southernmost point of South Africa, and in the mountains and open plains of Montana. Over her 15-year career as a full-time professional river guide, she has led trips in Montana, Idaho, New Zealand, Morocco, the Grand Canyon and Southern Africa. Mandela also works for the National Wildlife Federation to bring awareness to wildlife conservation, protect public lands, and drive clean water acts. Through films, creative storytelling, and her podcast “The Trail Less Traveled,” Mandela brings the many wonders of the outdoors to life.





Inclusions/Exclusions
MT Sobek: Idaho Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting

Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage

Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
What To Expect
MT Sobek: Idaho Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting

Reason #01

MT Sobek has operated small-group rafting adventures on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River for over 17 years.

Reason #02

Professional river guides follow Leave No Trace policies to maintain a pristine environment and will WOW you with their wilderness cooking skills.

Reason #03

Our team carries the heavy load, sets up your campsite, and cooks amazing hot meals each day, so you can relax and have fun!

Activities

Exciting whitewater rafting on Class II-IV rapids, paddling 10-19 miles per day, with short hiking excursions on the river's scenic banks.

Lodging

A comfortable hotel in Stanley, followed by MT Sobek's deluxe riverside camps, with meals served around the campfire beneath the stars.

Climate

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.

When can younger children go on this trip?

When the water is low, this trip is great for families with kids as young as 6 years old. During June, the water level is too high for any kids younger than 16.

How many rafts, kayaks and paddle rafts will there be on the trip?

This will vary based on the number of people on each trip, but we will always have oar boats, inflatable kayaks and at least one paddle boat.

Will there be showers at the campsites?

We will have a small amount of hot water available in our camp shower each night, but don't expect a shower every evening. But the riverside swimming is always available.

What kind of river and camping gear is provided on this trip?

We provide large stand-up tents, thick sleeping pads, freshly laundered sleeping bags and a small pillow.

Is this a good trip for families?

This is an excellent trip for families! Highly recommended for young kids and grandparents alike!

What is the toilet situation at camp?

We will provide a portable seated toilet set up in a private setting at each campsite, with toilet paper and hand soap.

If I drive to Stanley, how will I collect my car from Salmon?

A shuttle company will transport your vehicle to Salmon, Idaho where the trip ends.

Is it possible to book a night at the Stagecoach Inn on the last day?

Yes, guests can book directly with the Stagecoach Inn if they wish to stay overnight on Day 7.

MT Sobek: Idaho Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting

Day: 1, duration: 1
Mountain Village Hotel

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.

Day: 2, duration: 5
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.

MT Sobek: Idaho Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting

Kevin McDermott
Kevin McDermott—a.k.a. "Thirsty"—has been guiding since he was 17 years old and has been an integral part of MT Sobek's Arctic rivers program for decades. His laid-back manner puts everyone at ease, and he has a wealth of knowledge about Arctic rivers. Although he normally spends his winter months in Colorado's Telluride ski area, he has climbed Denali three times, reaching the summit in 2000. Thirsty is a legend in the MT Sobek circle and endears himself to travelers with his expertise, calm demeanor, and sense of humor.





Andy Ambelang
Andy was born and raised in the great outdoors of Montana. At the young age of 15, he launched his first trip down the Salmon River in Idaho and has never looked back! He spends his summers guiding down the Salmon before heading over to the Colorado River in springtime and fall to guide through the Grand Canyon. Internationally, he has led trips in Nepal, Ethiopia’s Blue Nile River, and Madagascar’s Mania River. In the off season, Andy works as a ski patroller at Montana Snowbowl and skis with his dog Dani every chance he can get.





Mandela Van Eeden
Mandela was raised on a nature reserve at the southernmost point of South Africa, and in the mountains and open plains of Montana. Over her 15-year career as a full-time professional river guide, she has led trips in Montana, Idaho, New Zealand, Morocco, the Grand Canyon and Southern Africa. Mandela also works for the National Wildlife Federation to bring awareness to wildlife conservation, protect public lands, and drive clean water acts. Through films, creative storytelling, and her podcast “The Trail Less Traveled,” Mandela brings the many wonders of the outdoors to life.





MT Sobek: Idaho Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting

Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage

Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
MT Sobek: Idaho Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting

Reason #01

MT Sobek has operated small-group rafting adventures on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River for over 17 years.

Reason #02

Professional river guides follow Leave No Trace policies to maintain a pristine environment and will WOW you with their wilderness cooking skills.

Reason #03

Our team carries the heavy load, sets up your campsite, and cooks amazing hot meals each day, so you can relax and have fun!

Activities

Exciting whitewater rafting on Class II-IV rapids, paddling 10-19 miles per day, with short hiking excursions on the river's scenic banks.

Lodging

A comfortable hotel in Stanley, followed by MT Sobek's deluxe riverside camps, with meals served around the campfire beneath the stars.

Climate

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.

When can younger children go on this trip?

When the water is low, this trip is great for families with kids as young as 6 years old. During June, the water level is too high for any kids younger than 16.

How many rafts, kayaks and paddle rafts will there be on the trip?

This will vary based on the number of people on each trip, but we will always have oar boats, inflatable kayaks and at least one paddle boat.

Will there be showers at the campsites?

We will have a small amount of hot water available in our camp shower each night, but don't expect a shower every evening. But the riverside swimming is always available.

What kind of river and camping gear is provided on this trip?

We provide large stand-up tents, thick sleeping pads, freshly laundered sleeping bags and a small pillow.

Is this a good trip for families?

This is an excellent trip for families! Highly recommended for young kids and grandparents alike!

What is the toilet situation at camp?

We will provide a portable seated toilet set up in a private setting at each campsite, with toilet paper and hand soap.

If I drive to Stanley, how will I collect my car from Salmon?

A shuttle company will transport your vehicle to Salmon, Idaho where the trip ends.

Is it possible to book a night at the Stagecoach Inn on the last day?

Yes, guests can book directly with the Stagecoach Inn if they wish to stay overnight on Day 7.

About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.

To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go.

Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.

We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.

Read More

About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.

To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go.

Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.

We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.

Read More

Prices are per-person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted.