Lower Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
| Price |
 What's this? |
| Class of Rapids |
I-III |
| Trip Miles |
52 to 75 miles |
| Trip Duration |
4 to 5 days |
| Season |
July-October |
| Raft Type |
Oar Raft, Paddle Raft, Inflatable Kayak, Dory |
| River Sections |
Hammer Creek to Heller Bar on the Snake River |
| Nearby Towns |
White Bird (ID) |
| Driving Times |
Lewiston (ID): 1.5 hours; Boise (ID): 4 hours; Missoula (MT): 4 hours |
| Recommended For |
Multi Day Trip |
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Idaho's Lower Salmon meanders warm, wide, and mellow, making it a great getaway for young families.
(courtesy, O.A.R.S.)
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Praised as having an ideal mix of scenery, seclusion, and whitewater excitement, the South Fork of the Salmon river runs through a beautiful granite canyon and is surrounded by thick forests and open mountain sides. At low flow, the Canyon section of the river loses some of its whitewater characteristics, but it remains a gorgeous wilderness tour. When the water is running high, however, this run offers some challenging rapids. For an even more challenging day, try the secluded Goat Creek run on the South Fork. This Class IV run includes at least 20 good drops, one class V ledge, and lots of logs and sweepers. This river ends at its confluence with the Snake River, although many rafting trips continue down the Snake for an additional 20 miles through scenic Hell's Canyon. Lower summer flows can also make this an accessible option for families and seniors.
Tour Operator Trips on the Lower Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
* Trip price reflects the average cost per day for a guided rafting adventure on a given river (
= $50-$100/day;
= $100-$250/day;
= $250 or more/day) and accounts for half-day, full-day, or multiday rafting excursions. Lodging, dining, and transportation costs (airfare, car rental/shuttle, equipment rentals, etc.) have not been factored into account. Please note that the trip price classification is intended to be an approximate guideline, as the range of prices on a given river can vary based on amenities, services, and customized add-ons offered through individual outfitters.
