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!
Can we fish?
Yes! Fishing is best where tributaries flow into the Main Salmon. Many camps are located near tributaries. Hiking up a tributary for fishing is great way to explore the waters that feed the Main Salmon, cooler tempuratues and shade are nice respite from a day in the sun and sand!
Salmon River Fishing Information
Idaho Fishing License Information
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 (we recommend bringing your own)
- All meals starting from first day’s lunch to last day’s lunch – complete outfitter kitchen provided
- Beverages including drinking water, Gatorade 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.
2025 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!
The following dates have space available and have options like ROW YOUR OWN and GROUP discounts.
June 23-28 – Enjoy higher flows and more time exploring camp – OPTION for 3 OR 4 DAY with a JET BACK
Aug 18-23 – Great end of summer trip before back to school
Aug 26-31 – Nature & History focused trip with Kevin Niehaus from the Montana Natural History Center and Wayne Fairchild!
Sept 3-8 – Late summer for more solitude
Dates July 1, 9, 17, 25 Aug 2, 10 – FULL
ROW YOUR OWN – price ranges from $950-1250 per person – depending on group size, exact provisions and transportation options. More details coming. CONTACT US for more info!
Final rate per person depends upon group size and provisions. Group (large & small) discounts available!
$1850 – $1550 per person / $1650 – $1400 12 years & under
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 operating under a special use permit with the USDA – Salmon-Challis National Forests.
Lewis & Clark Trail Adventures (LCTA) is an equal opportunity provider.
Trip Planning:
Holiday Inn – Downtown at the Park – located in the heart of downtown on the banks of the Clark Fork River, next to Caras Park (Brennans Wave, the Carousel, Farmers Market – Sat, Out to lunch – Wed and Out to dinner – Thurs) easy walking distance to all the best restaurants & bars. Indoor Pool.
Use this Link to book: Lewis and Clark Trail Adventures
OR Book Online using Corporate ID: 100242310
OR Call and reference “Lewis & Clark Trail Adventures” and the Corporate ID: 100242310
There are MANY hotels in Missoula, coordinating the pick up & drop off at one location may require you to get to the Holiday Inn for pick / drop off.
Gear Lists & Recommended Reading
Trip Cancellation Policy & Guest Responsibility
Travel, Trip and Cancellation Insurance
Why is travel insurance so important?
In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to protect your travel investment so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injury could impact your travel plans. LCTA recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer travel protection through Travelex Insurance Services.
Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792 and reference location number 26-0048.
Travelex Insurance Services, Inc. CA Agency License #0D10209. Insurance coverages underwritten by Zurich American Insurance Company (NAIC #16535, state of domicile: New York), 1299 Zurich Way, Schaumburg, IL 60196. Certain coverages not available in all states.