Salmon River of No Return
Our Idaho rafting vacation trips have charisma. We can easily list its attributes; accessible whitewater, rugged beauty, vast white sand beaches, warm & dry climate, but beyond the obvious there is feeling you get while floating, paddling, hiking, and for a few days living on the Main Salmon. Like a true charismatic, the Salmon River may influence you to… go for a hike, try an inflatable kayak, build a sand castle or just relax in a way only possible when you are away from phone & computer. It’s that same feeling that draws our clients and guides back to the Salmon River to live for few days in this wilderness paradise.
The free-flowing Salmon River flows 120 miles through the largest contiguous wilderness in the lower 48 states, and much of it is the same as the day that Lewis and Clark investigated it as a possible route west. They decided the rapids were too rough for their expedition, but our guides are ready and more than able to help you negotiate the rapids and share their knowledge of the abundant wildlife, plants, geology and the history that lives where the Salmon River cuts the second-deepest canyon in the lower 48 states.
You choose your conveyance
From an oar boat, to a smaller self-bailing raft, even an inflatable kayak for the more adventurous. No matter the mode, when you reach camp, you will find that you have time to fish, hike, swim, or just enjoy some relaxing time in one of the most beautiful spots in the world. And while you kick back, a healthy and hearty dinner is prepared, in anticipation of a cozy night under the stars. The Salmon is a great destination for families looking for adventure on one of the United States’ great rivers.
Lewis & Clark Trail Adventures knows that much of your experience relies on the personality and expertise of your guide. Rest assured, our guides know how to show you a good time, beginning with a river & camp safety briefing prior. LCTA guides are like family and after a few days on the river, you’ll feel more like part of our family than a guest!
Meals on the River
We take pride in our camp cuisine. Meals should be something you look forward to and exceed your expectation right up until the last day. Start your day with a good cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast like pancakes & sausage with fresh fruit & juice, lunch is welcome stop with sandwiches made with quality deli meats & cheese, lots of fresh veggies & snacks, dinner might be marinated & grilled flank steaks, colorful salads, Dutch oven deserts and bread from local bakeries. Beer and wine, in moderation, is provided with appetizers & dinner. Water, sodas, and gaterade also provided. We are happy to accommodate various dietary needs so let us know your requests.
Gear
The gear is designed with your comfort in mind. The following items are provided on our standard trips.
- Guided Whitewater rafting, camping and exploring
- Camping Equipment to include 4-Person dome tents (2 adults), sleeping pad and Camp Chair
- River equipment to include paddles, life jackets (PFD) and helmets for inflatable kayaks
- Dry Bags for personal items, clothing and sleeping bag (you bring unless renting sleeping bag from us $40)
- All meals starting from first day’s lunch to last day’s lunch – complete outfitter kitchen provided
- Beverages including drinking water, Gaterade or sparkling water and/or soda. Beer & wine in moderation 2 per person.
- Emergency equipment
- Shuttle Transportation based out of Missoula, MT or Salmon, ID or other by arrangement
If you are going on a custom trip with either upgraded amenities or discounted trip, the above provisions may vary.
2023 Main Salmon River Trips – River of No Return
6-Day Trips
Great for families, gathering friends, getting away from the crowds of summertime travel. It’s time to UNPLUG and get out on the river!
July 17, 25, Aug 2, 10, 18 – RESERVED
July 1 – Spend 4th of July on the River – Option for ROW YOUR OWN raft – If you did not get a launch date, we can make this budget friendly!
July 9 – space available – optional kayak instruction with Tarkio Kayak Adventures.
Late summer special rate of $1450 per person
Aug 26 – Maximize the last days of summer, might as well do a river trip!! Option for ROW YOUR OWN raft – If you did not get a launch date, we can make this budget friendly!
Sept 3 – available for individual or charter bookings
PROMO CODE: LATESUMMER2023
$1850 – $1650 per person / $1550 – $1350 per youth – under 14 discount
Final rate per person depends upon group size and provisions. Group (large & small) discounts available!
3-day Salmon river trip option
2023 dates available for Aug 26 or Sept 3 trip
Paddle and camp from Corn Creek to just above Black Creek Rapid. This section of river is class II-III whitewater, easy stretches for swimming and floating, white sand beaches and historical sites like Lantz Bar and Devil’s teeth pictographs. This is a leisurely paced trip and we have time for side hikes and stops along the way. To finish the trip, Jet boat return to Corn Creek.
$950 per person / $850 per youth under 14 years + jet boat fee (varies between $150-200 per person depending on final group size)
Contact us for the most current availability.
The Freeflow Writing Institute 6-day workshop – TBD
A six-day celebration of magical Pacific Northwest salmon, ecological and cultural connectivity, and a vanishing legacy hosted by David James Duncan, author of The River Why + The Brothers K
More details about this amazing opportunity Freeflow Institute
Contact us for the most current availability. Special pricing applies.
Kayak Instruction Trips
Learn from the best Tarkio Kayak Instructors – The most complete multi-day kayak instruction available. The Salmon River is perfect for all levels of kayaking.
Contact us for the most current availability. Special pricing applies.
Trip Details:
- Rates do not include USFS Recreation Enhancement Act Fee $4 per day per person
- We provide a professional whitewater guide, all river gear, camping equipment, healthy & hearty camp cuisine, transportation to and from the river. Some trips have special themes or different provisions & transportation logistics so be sure to check with us regarding your trip.
- 3 & 4 day trips are possible with fly-out + optional Wilderness Lodge overnight stays.
- Lewis & Clark Trail Adventures (LCTA) is a licensed service partner with the USDA – Salmon National Forests
Trip Planning Resources:
Gear Lists & Recommended Reading
Trip Cancellation Policy & Guest Responsibility
Need trip insurance? For your convenience, we offer travel protection through Travelex Insurance Services. For more information on the available plans or to enroll, got to www.travelexinsurance.com or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792 and reference location number 26-0048.
Travel Insurance is underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 55Y