Decades on the Salmon River: The Story Behind Adventure Idaho Rafting

For more than three decades, the heart of Adventure Idaho Rafting has been beating to the rhythm of the Salmon River. What began with Boy Scouts rafting on the Middle Fork and a handful of rafts has grown into one of Idaho’s most respected and experienced rafting companies. Today, it's trusted by thousands of guests each summer.

Meet the Founders

Alan Davis – Founder

With over 30 years of rafting experience and more than 150 trips down the Middle Fork of the Salmon, his calm leadership and unmatched knowledge of Idaho’s whitewater have earned him a reputation as one of the most seasoned outfitters in the state. Alan’s steady hand on the oars and commitment to safety have helped shape Adventure Idaho into the high-standard operation it is today.

Geana Davis – Co-Founder

Every unforgettable trip is powered by great food and even greater hospitality - that’s where Geana shines. As the creative force behind Adventure Idaho’s legendary camp meals, Geana ensures that guests return from each day on the river to hot, hearty, and homemade dishes that elevate the wilderness experience.

Justin Smith – General Manager

With 8,000+ river miles, 10+ years of commercial whitewater experience, and 52 Middle Fork expeditions, Justin brings both passion and precision to the river. A skilled whitewater photographer and videographer, Justin has shot countless expeditions, capturing the raw power of Idaho’s rivers and the joy of guests experiencing them. Justin helped transform Adventure Idaho into one of the most efficiently operated and forward-thinking outfitters in the region. He has implemented systems for trip logistics, training, safety, and guest communication, helping the company scale from a small local operation into one of Idaho’s largest rafting providers.

He’s also the driving force behind guide development, having trained over 100 professional river guides through Adventure Idaho’s rigorous program. His focus on leadership, safety, and relentless pursuit of perfection has raised the bar for guide training across the region.

A Team Built for Excellence

Adventure Idaho Rafting now runs with 32 full-time guides and 12 part-time guides — one of the largest professional teams in Idaho. Each guide completes in-depth Swiftwater and Whitewater Rescue training, as well as Wilderness First Aid certification and CPR, exceeding the state’s standard requirements.

Many of our guides hold Wilderness First Responder (WFR) credentials — a testament to their dedication to safety and professionalism.

Training isn’t just focused on safety but on excellent guest experience. Our team is known for balancing professionalism with fun — ensuring every trip is safe, organized, and unforgettable. That’s why Adventure Idaho is now top-rated in the region with over 500 five-star reviews and an average rating of 5.0 stars.

We don’t just train our guides once and send them out — we drill. Our crews run advanced scenarios, rescue simulations, and case studies throughout the season to keep their skills sharp. This commitment to preparation has made Adventure Idaho the outfitter with more boats on the river during high water than anyone else, and a spotless safety record.

Raising the Standard of Guiding

Adventure Idaho’s philosophy is simple: safety, service, and skill.

From first-year guides to seasoned leads, our team operates with precision — a culture built on humility, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Our approach combines traditional experience with modern training techniques, ensuring every guest’s adventure is not only thrilling but also safe and seamless.

With tens of thousands of rafters served over the years, we’ve refined the art of river adventure. Every rapid, every meal, and every campfire moment reflects decades of experience and a shared love for Idaho’s wild places.

Our Commitment and Permits

Adventure Idaho Rafting operates under official permits from both the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service, allowing us to run trips on some of Idaho’s most iconic stretches of river. These permits reflect our dedication to environmental stewardship and responsible use of public lands. We take pride in preserving the wild places we explore and ensuring future generations can enjoy them too.

Community, Partnerships, and Professional Involvement

Adventure Idaho Rafting is deeply rooted in the Idaho communities we serve. Our guides and staff regularly volunteer at local events and participate in service projects, giving back to the same places we adventure in. The company frequently donates river trips to fundraisers and nonprofit organizations across the region — supporting causes that strengthen the outdoors and the people who love it.

As a preferred partner of the Scouting America’s Mountain West Council, we provide youth rafting trips designed to teach teamwork, leadership, and outdoor confidence. We also host schools, sports teams, and church groups at discounted rates because we believe in getting the next generation outdoors — building resilience, confidence, and a lifelong love for adventure.

Our involvement goes far beyond the river. We are active members of the Salmon River Chamber of Commerce and the Twin Falls Chamber of Commerce, promoting recreation, tourism, and responsible business throughout the region. Adventure Idaho is also a proud member of the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association (IOGA) and the Main Salmon Outfitters Association, where we advocate for conservation, river access, and the highest safety standards in the industry.

We proudly represent the Boy Scouts of America’s Mountain West Council within the Middle Fork Outfitters Association, ensuring youth access to life-changing outdoor experiences on the Salmon River. On the national stage, our team engages with America Outdoors (AO) — the leading voice for professional outfitters — staying at the forefront of best practices, safety innovation, and outdoor policy.

Some of our lead guides also serve as active Swiftwater Rescue volunteers, assisting local search and rescue teams when called upon — a reflection of the professionalism and commitment that defines our entire crew.

Seasonal Operations and River Expertise

Adventure Idaho Rafting operates each year from May through September, taking full advantage of Idaho’s prime rafting season. Our team thrives in every condition, from early-season high water adventures to warm summer floats.

During peak runoff, we have more boats on the river than any other outfitter, and our guides are trained and experienced in navigating both technical runs like the Middle Fork and big-water challenges like the Murtaugh section of the Snake River.

Our crew are true experts in large-group rafting, managing complex logistics and safety for multi-boat expeditions while keeping every trip personal, organized, and unforgettable. From family reunions and corporate retreats to custom youth expeditions, Adventure Idaho Rafting welcomes groups of all kinds. Whether you’re celebrating milestones, strengthening teams, or just escaping the office, our expert guides make every trip safe, organized, and unforgettable.

Join the Adventure

When you raft with Adventure Idaho, you’re not just joining a trip — you’re stepping into a legacy. You’re guided by professionals who live and breathe the river, who’ve spent years mastering its rhythms, and who are passionate about sharing its beauty with you.

Whether you’re planning a family trip, a youth adventure, or a bucket-list run down the Salmon River, you’ll feel the difference experience makes.

Adventure Idaho Rafting — where experience, safety, and adventure come together.