Salmon River Rafting

Join us for 6 days of rafting on the Salmon River in Idaho

The Main Salmon River in Idaho, AKA ‘The River of No Return’: carves through the heart of Idaho Wilderness and forms the second deepest canyon in the US. This stretch of river is perfect for families. The Main Salmon River Rafting Trips boasts broad sandy beaches, Class II-IV whitewater, wildlife, canyon walls, hot springs, and history all come together to make this an outstanding river trip experience. The full wilderness run encompasses 80+ miles of river and drops 1200’ in elevation. We recommend 6 days to explore this unique river.

A smaller, more personal trip experience on ‘The River of No Return’

Part of our mission in the backcountry is to respect and deepen the wilderness experience. Therefore we strive to keep our trip guest numbers more intimate than most other outfitters. We prefer a 12 guest maximum although we can expand if needed. As a small family operation we take great pride in personalizing your river experience.

Trip highlights

• Sandy beaches
• Class II-IV whitewater
• Steep canyon walls
• Hot springs
• Local history

Photos

Quick Facts

• Begins: Missoula, Montana
• Ends: Missoula, Montana
• Season: End of July through October
• Distance: 80+ miles
• Rapids: Class II-IV
• Boat Type: Oar / Paddle / Inflatable Kayak
• Minimum Age: 6 years old

What’s Included

Includes guides, food, shuttle (starting and finishing in Missoula, Montana), paddle suits, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, dry bags, day bags, and tents.

Not Included

We block out rooms at the Doubletree Hotel on the Clark Fork River for the nights pre and post trip at a discounted rate but this is not included in the trip cost. The Doubletree Hotel offers free shuttle service to and from the Missoula airport.

What to expect?

Day-by-day itinerary

• Day Before Launch: Orientation at The Doubletree Hotel in Missoula, Montana.
• Day 1: Depart from the Doubletree at 7:30 am. Shuttle to the river.
• Day 2: Full day of rafting. Options for side hikes & hot springs.
• Day 3: Full day of rafting.
• Day 4: Full day of rafting.
• Day 5: Full day of rafting.
• Day 6: Half day of rafting. Drive back to Missoula.
• Day 7: Travel home.

» See full itinerary

Typical Day

A typical day on the Salmon River starts around 6AM with coffee and a light breakfast followed by a 10AM departure. Each day on the river is a bit different but between challenging rapids & swimming, we make time for side hikes and local history. At night you can expect celebration, reflection, songs and stories.

Camping on the river

We will provide you with tents, sleeping bags and a large, comfortable sleeping pad. A portable toilet affectionately called ‘the groover’ is provided at camp. Our camping equipment is all up to date and our style of river camping is considered first-rate. SOAR Northwest’s top priority is to keep you safe as well as comfortable.

This includes healthy & hearty meals, campfires & chairs, personal assistance when needed, and guidance in dealing with the elements and weather.

Physical Requirements

You don’t need prior whitewater experience, but you do need an adventurous spirit and reasonable fitness. Age requirements are a minimum of 6 years old.  You should be in good physical condition and able to cope with normal camping routines. Meal preparation and cleanup is done by the guides. Our guides are trained in first aid and are eager to help you in any way with an emphasis on adapting to and enjoying your surroundings.

You are required to carry your personal gear short distances and learn to erect a simple tent and sleep on a comfortable pad in the tent. A portable toilet is provided. Our camping equipment is the best and our camping style is considered by most to be deluxe.  SOAR Northwest’s first priority is to keep you safe and as comfortable as weather and your wilderness surroundings will permit.

Get Ready!

Packing List: What’s Provided

• tent
• a large dry bag
• 20 degree sleeping bag
• comfortable sleeping pad
• splash top & pants to wear while on the water
• wetsuits (if needed)
• small dry bag

» Recommended packing list

Pre-Trip Travel Information

Our Salmon River trips begin and end in Missoula, Montana at the Doubletree Hotel on the Clark Fork River. SOAR Northwest will block out rooms for the nights pre and post trip at a discounted rate.  You will have a window of time to reserve the necessary rooms. This cost is not included in the trip cost. The Doubletree Hotel offers free shuttle service to and from the Missoula airport. The hotel location offers a river-view restaurant, a walking path along the river into Downtown Missoula, and easy access to a grocery store, restaurants and even hiking to the regionally famous ‘M’. Air Service to Missoula is serviced by Alaska, Allegiant, Delta, Frontier, & United.

Trip Orientation takes place at The Doubletree Hotel the night before the launch date at 6:00 pm. During orientation you trip leader will answer questions, complete all necessary paperwork, and issue you your personal gear for the trip.

Payment & Cancellation

We only guarantee reservations upon receipt of deposit (for each seat). We accept ACH payments, personal checks & credit cards (3% surcharge). Deposits are non-refundable. Please contact us for more info.

Salmon River Dates & Rates: 2025

• Family Trip cost: $2400.00 adult / $2200.00 youth (6-14)
• Security Deposit: $500.00 / person (group size 1-4)
• Security Deposit: $1000.00 / person (group size 5+)
• Trip cost includes guides, food, shuttle (starting and finishing in Missoula, MT), paddle suits, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, dry bags, day bags, and tents.
• A $4.00 / person / day Recreational Enhancement Act fee is included in the rate
• 3% of the company’s adjusted gross revenue are for a land use fee for operating on national forest lands