Explore Idaho’s Lower Salmon River
52 Miles of Wilderness & Rapids
Known for its HUGE sandy beaches, thrilling rapids, and warm water, this river is unlike any other rafting river in the United States! It’s the perfect playground for families, adventurers, and anyone looking for an unforgettable river experience. Build sandcastles, compete in river Olympic challenges, or just unwind on the beach - the opportunities for fun are endless. Even the most adventurous will be excited by famous rapids like Demons Drop, Bodacious Bounce, Snow Hole, China, Eye of the Needle, and many more.
As you travel downriver, you’ll float past towering ancient cliffs and rugged landscapes, each rich with historical significance. This remote region, straddling Idaho and Oregon, is home to Native American rock art and artifacts, offering a glimpse into cultures that once thrived along these waters. Days spent exploring transition into relaxing evenings around the campfire, where stargazing and storytelling create memories that will last a lifetime.
One of the most awe-inspiring moments of the journey is the powerful confluence of the Salmon and Snake Rivers. Here, you’ll witness the meeting of two mighty forces, each carving their way through some of the deepest canyons in North America. It’s not just a place for incredible fishing - it’s a breathtaking sight that captures the raw beauty and power of nature.
Your adventure wraps up with an exhilarating jet boat ride into Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America. Hold on tight as the jet boat powers up the roaring rapids, a thrilling finale that brings you back just 45 minutes from where your journey began. There’s no better way to end your adventure and witness the river's immense power one last time.
The Lower Salmon offers something for everyone - from beachside relaxation to adrenaline-pumping rapids. It’s an adventure you’ll be talking about for years to come!
Booking & Cancellation
A 20% deposit is required to secure your trip. Final balance is due 7 days prior to launch.
All payments are non-refundable but fully transferable - you may reschedule or send another guest for the same year.
We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your investment.
For full details on deposits, refunds, and essential participation requirements, see our
The Best Value in U.S. Rafting Adventures
The Lower Salmon River is Idaho’s ultimate hidden gem - offering big whitewater, warm swimming water, and massive sandy beaches at a fraction of the price of other multi-day rafting destinations in the United States.
While the Middle Fork and Main Salmon are often called the “premier” wilderness expeditions, their limited permits and fly-in logistics push prices upward of $4,000 per person.
The Lower Salmon, by contrast, delivers spectacular canyon scenery, abundant wildlife, and the largest natural river beaches in the West - all with easier access and more flexible launch dates. That means more availability, more sunshine, and the best combination of adventure, comfort, and value in American whitewater rafting. Experience world-class Idaho rafting starting at $995 per person.
Rapids
Class III to IV-, varying with seasonal flow. You’ll run iconic rapids like Rollercoaster, Snowhole, China, Eagle Creek, Sluicebox, Checkerboard, Eye of the Needle and more with warm, splashy waves all summer long.
Even in late August, the river maintains fun, steady flows - perfect for families and first-timers.
Seasonality & The Slide Rapid
The Lower Salmon River is a true summer gem, offering warm water and sunshine well into September. However, early-season trips in June depend on river flow conditions at The Slide Rapid - a powerful Class V rapid that forms at high water.
When flows are high, The Slide is impassable for commercial trips. It’s not a gradual change; the rapid essentially goes from a Class V to a Class I almost overnight as the river drops, typically by late June.
-
Before late June: Trips may launch far above The Slide, ending the journey higher upstream. These early-season trips still feature big water, scenic canyons, and plenty of fun rapids, though they do not include the jet boat return.
-
After late June: Our standard Lower Salmon itinerary runs all the way to the confluence with the Snake River, followed by the jet boat shuttle and scenic drive back to Hammer Creek.
Every season is unique, and our operations team monitors water levels daily to ensure the safest, most exciting trip possible.
Group Size
Minimum 6 guests, maximum 25 per trip (jet boat maximum 24 passengers).
Smaller group? Reach out - we’ll pair you with another crew or arrange a custom departure.
Inquire for group discounts.
Physical Requirements
All participants should review our Essential Physical Requirements to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Our guides are experienced in working with a wide range of fitness levels - contact us with any concerns.
Large Groups & Private Charters
Planning something big? We offer private charters for families, corporate retreats, and special events.
Youth groups, Scouts, and schools qualify for discounted rates - contact us for details.
Sample 4-Day Lower Salmon Itinerary
(Every trip varies slightly depending on water levels and campsites.)
Day 1 — Launch into the Wilderness
Meet your guides in the morning at the Hammer Creek Boat Launch. After a detailed safety briefing, push off and leave the roads behind as you enter the first of many rugged canyons. Paddle through warm, inviting water, learn river commands, and settle into your first white-sand beach camp beneath towering granite walls.
Day 2 — Rapids & Canyons
Wake to the smell of breakfast along the riverbank. Today features thrilling Class IV Snowhole and China Rapids, along with plenty of fun wave trains. Between rapids, enjoy calm stretches perfect for swimming or a short hike to a historic homestead. As the sun sets, relax on another spacious sandbar and enjoy a hearty meal prepared by your guides.
Day 3 — History & Whitewater
Float deeper into Idaho’s granite canyons and witness layers of fascinating geologic history. Tackle legendary rapids such as Eagle Creek, Sluicebox, and Eye of the Needle - favorites among guides and guests alike. Unwind in the evening with beach games, campfire stories, and another incredible riverside dinner.
Day 4 — Jetboat
Enjoy the morning before meeting the jet boat that will whisk you upstream to the take-out point. This exhilarating ride offers a whole new perspective of the rapids you conquered, followed by a scenic shuttle over the mountain pass back to your vehicles at Hammer Creek around noon.
Included
Expert Guides: Professional and friendly river experts.
Fully Catered Meals: Fresh, delicious meals prepared by our crew.
Cooler with Ice: Keep your drinks chilled.
Rafting & Camping Gear: All essential equipment provided.
Camping: Deluxe sleeping pad and tents.
Specialized Gear: Helmets, paddles, PFDs, and more.
Orientation: Pre-trip briefing for a smooth start.
Shuttle from Pittsburg Landing to Hammer Creek
Jetboat: Top off the trip with a thrilling return. Included for groups of 15+
Not Included
BLM User Fee: Required for the trip. Added to checkout.
Beverages: Welcome to bring your own.
Car Shuttle: Arrange and pay for vehicle shuttle if floating to Heller Bar (Opting out of jetboat return).
Gratuities: Optional but appreciated.
Travel Insurance: Recommended for peace of mind.
Hotel Reservations: Lodging before or after the trip.
Personal Items: Bring your own essentials.
Lower Salmon Transportation Options
Transportation can be one of the most challenging aspects of an Idaho river adventure, but our options are designed to make it easy.
The Lower Salmon trip, combined with the jetboat return on the Snake River, forms a unique loop that can be a bit tricky to visualize. Take a look at the map below to see how it all connects!
Option 1: Family/Budget-Friendly – Drive to Hammer Creek
A great choice for families or those seeking a cost-effective adventure.
Cost: $0 (excluding accommodations)
Accommodation:
-
Camp at Hammer Creek the first night ($10 camping fee).
-
Other camping options are available upriver.
-
Stay in Riggins, Idaho - View Lodging
Meals:
-
Bring your own dinner and breakfast for the first night before meeting our team the following morning.
Post Trip:
-
The jetboat will drop you off at Pittsburg Landing. There you will meet a team member for a 45 min ride back to your vehicle at Hammer Creek.
Option 2: Riggins to Riggins – Round-Trip Convenience
Enjoy the convenience of starting and ending your adventure in Riggins, Idaho. By meeting at our office in Riggins, this option provides round-trip transportation, making logistics easier for you.
-
Inquire to cooridinate.
Option 3: Shuttle to Heller Bar – No Jetboat Return
If you prefer not to use a jetboat, this option shuttles your car to Heller Bar, providing a seamless end to your rafting adventure.
-
Note: This option does not include a jetboat ride back upriver.
-
Best option for groups driving from the Lewiston area or further north.
-
You must book your vehicle shuttles in advance. We recommend All River Shuttles
-
We can also arrange for pickup in Lewiston before your trip. Reach out for details.
Option 4: Custom Travel Arrangements
Have specific needs or other travel preferences? We offer pickup at Boise, McCall or Lewiston.
-
Contact our office for a custom quote tailored to your needs.
Need Help?
Our team is here to make your trip as smooth as possible. Contact us for additional information.
"No relation, came out from Virginia and booked, here, my first white water rafting trip.
An overwhelmingly positive experience!
We came late in the rafting season (Aug) and there was one class 4 set of rapids and a host of others; all fun!
The pacing was on point, with plenty opportunities to swim, chill, or chat. Our guide brought light and levity, and was knowledgeable about the region, our route, and left no doubt as I boarded the raft that I was in good hands!"
Lastly, we guarantee an unforgettable trip of a lifetime that you will be talking about for years to come!