5-Day Main Salmon Wilderness Rafting
Experience the Legendary Main Salmon
Idaho’s River of No Return
Scenic Canyon. Sandy Beaches. Hot Springs. Remote Wilderness. Fun rapids all summer long.
Named for its strong currents and difficulty of traveling upstream, making it impossible for early settlers to return to their starting point, the Main Salmon has earned its nickname: “The River of No Return.” The name has stuck and now serves as a symbol of the river's wild and untamed nature. It's a true test of adventure, but with all the amenities and safety measures in place, you'll be ready to embark on a memorable escape from the modern world.
The river slices through the heart of the largest wilderness area in the lower 48 states, creating a ribbon of emerald green waters surrounded by towering peaks and dense forests. As you navigate its thrilling rapids, you journey beyond the realms where even Lewis & Clark wisely chose not to explore. With a rich Native American history, the remnants of the Nez Perce and Shoshone-Bannock tribes can still be seen along the river in a land that hasn't changed since maps were first made.
From navigating rapids to exploring sandy beaches, every day is filled with excitement. Take a soak in natural hot springs, visit a mountain man's historic residence, and enjoy stargazing under the open heavens. Evenings are spent around the campfire for games and bonding, creating memories that will last a lifetime. A week spent disconnected from the modern world will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, eager to return to the River of No Return.
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 recommend travel insurance.
For full details on deposits, refunds, and essential participation requirements, see our
Rapids
Class III–IV, changing with seasonal flow. You’ll run legendary rapids like Black Creek, Bailey, Five Mile, Big Mallard, and Elkhorn, with fun, splashy waves all summer long.
The river never gets too low to raft - early-season (May–June) brings the biggest, high-water adventure of the year.
Group Size
Minimum 6 guests, maximum 25 per trip.
Smaller group? Reach out and we’ll work our magic to 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.
Ages: We typically allow children as young as 6 years old after July 4, as long as they meet the minimum weight of 50 pounds. Early season conditions can vary. If water levels are high and cold in late May or early June, we may temporarily raise the minimum age to 14 or 16 for safety.
Our guides are experienced in working with a wide range of fitness levels - contact us with any concerns.
Row Your Own Boat
Have your own raft and rowing experience? Join our 5-Day Main Salmon trip as a supported private boater — we handle meals, permits, and logistics while you enjoy the freedom of running your own boat. Limited gear rentals (rafts, frames, etc) are available.
Learn more about RYO options →
Large Groups & Private Charters
Planning something big? We offer private charters for families, corporate retreats, and special events.
Youth groups, Scouts, and schools receive discounted rates for pre- or post-season trips - contact us for availability and custom pricing.
Sample 5-Day Main Salmon Itinerary
(Every trip varies slightly depending on water levels and campsites.)
Day 1 — Launch into the Wilderness
Board a bus in Salmon, Idaho or drive to meet your guides in the morning at Corn Creek boat launch. After a safety briefing, push off into the heart of the Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness. Paddle through clear water, learn river commands, and settle into your first white-sand beach camp beneath towering pines.
Day 2 — Rapids, Canyons & Hot Springs
Wake to a riverside breakfast. Today features thrilling Class IV Black Creek Rapid and stop at Hot Tub Hot Springs. Enjoy optional hikes to historic homesteads and scenic overlooks before camping on another spacious sandbar.
Day 3 — History & Whitewater
Float through deep granite canyons and remnants of Idaho’s pioneer past. Tackle legendary rapids like Bailey, Big Mallard, visit Buckskin Bill's place, and then relax with evening games, campfire stories, and a guide-prepared dinner.
Day 4 — Swimming, Hiking & Wilderness Solitude
Slow down and soak up the beauty - swim in eddies, explore side creeks, and take in one of America’s most pristine wildernesses. Guides prepare hearty meals while you unwind and connect.
Day 5 — Big Water Finale & Scenic Take-Out
Finish strong with the final rapids and reflections as we approach Carey Creek take-out. Arrive at your personal vehicle or return to Riggins by bus. Ends late morning. High water option - jet boat ride back up the river.
Legendary Experience
We are proud to have Eric Newell on our team. He's the author of Idaho's Salmon River - the popular guidebook for this river. His 30+ years of experience, thrilling storytelling and personal connections with the canyon's residents are valuable assets to our team and anyone who ventures down the River of No Return.
Eric helps with guide training and leads 1-2 trips a year. Inquire to join!
Included
Expert Guides: Professional and friendly river experts.
Fully Catered Meals: Fresh, delicious meals prepared by our crew from launch to take-out.
Clean Water: Always available on your trip.
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.
Camp setup and teardown handled by your guide team — you just relax
Not Included
Beverages: Welcome to bring your own in moderation.
Car Shuttle: See cost saving options below.
Optional jet-boat or flight transfers.
Guide gratuities (typically 10–20% of trip cost)
Personal Sleeping Bag (can be included if needed, reserve during booking)
Travel Insurance: Recommended for peace of mind.
Hotel Reservations: Lodging before or after the trip.
Personal Items: Bring your own essentials.
Main Salmon Transportation Options
Transportation can be one of the most challenging aspects of an Idaho river adventure, but our options are designed to simplify the process. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly solutions or an all-inclusive package, we’ve got you covered. Please note that all options come with additional costs to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Groups of 12 to 24 people
Get in touch about our travel included packages!
We make it easy!
Note: This wilderness area is HUGE! It's a 10 hour drive, one way, from the start to the end of the river trip.
Option 1: Family/Budget-Friendly – Drive to Corn Creek
A perfect option for families or those seeking a budget-friendly adventure. Plus, having your own vehicle waiting at the end of the trip adds extra convenience!
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Cost: $500 per vehicle (excluding accommodations)
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Car pooling makes this the most cost effective option.
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Accommodation Options:
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Camp at Corn Creek the first night ($10 camping fee)
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Other free camping options are available upriver.
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Stay in Salmon, Idaho - View Lodging Recommendations
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Meals:
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Bring your own dinner and breakfast for the first night before meeting our team in the morning.
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Car Shuttle:
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Book your own car shuttle from Corn Creek to Carey Creek (approximately $500 per vehicle)
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Advance booking required. View Recommended Shuttle Companies
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Option 2: Jetback
Ride a whitewater jetboat back up the rapids to the starting point. It's a wild addition to the adventure!
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Cost: About $2,850 per boat (24 passengers)
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Most cost effective for large groups.
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Time: 3-4 hours
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Only available during high water in May/June.
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Park at the start of the trip and arrive back at your vehicles.
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Contact our office.
Option 3: One Way Scenic Flight
Fly across the vast Idaho wilderness, offering a quick return to your starting point. This is a convenient option whether you begin in McCall or Salmon.
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Cost: About $260 per person
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Lodging: Available in Salmon, Idaho - View Lodging Recommendations
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Baggage Limit: 35 lbs per person. Additional weight: $1 per extra pound.
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Starting Point Options:
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McCall, Idaho
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Drive to the McCall Airport and fly to Salmon, Idaho.
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Option 1: Meet our team in afternoon and camp at Corn Creek before your rafting trip.
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Option 2: Stay overnight in Salmon, Idaho, and ride the bus to Corn Creek the next morning.
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Pickup Time: 7:00 a.m. at your Salmon lodging.
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Salmon, Idaho
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Drive to the Salmon Airport for an early morning 6:45 a.m. pickup to ride the bus to Corn Creek.
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Post-Trip: After rafting, we will bus/van you from the take-out to McCall Airport.
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Enjoy a 55-minute afternoon flight with Gem Air back to Salmon Airport.
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You may arrange your own flights or contact our office for group discounts.
Option 4: Full Travel Deal – Boise to Boise
This all-inclusive package covers all your travel logistics from start to finish.
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Cost: $750 per person, $1250 per couple
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Includes Lodging in Salmon, Idaho, two flights, and ground transport.
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Travel:
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Fly from Boise to Salmon with Gem Air. 12:30 or 3:30pm flight
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Complimentary Airport Shuttle (Stagecoach Inn)
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Stay in Salmon, Idaho
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Complimentary Breakfast
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Board a bus/van to Corn Creek
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Raft the Main Salmon
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Board a bus/van from the take-out to the McCall airport
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Return Flight: Afternoon flight from McCall back to Boise
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Not Included:
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You are responsible for airline tickets or driving to Boise, Idaho.
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Dinner in Salmon, Idaho - Multiple options within walking distance.
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Accommodations before/after the rafting trip.
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Booking: Contact us or request full travel deal during checkout.
Option 5: Custom Travel Arrangements
Have specific needs or other travel preferences?
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Contact our office for a custom quote
Need Help?
Our team is here to make your travel as smooth as possible. Contact us for additional information.
Groups of 12 to 24 people
Get in touch about our travel included packages!
We make it easy!
Main Salmon Travel Map: Gem Air
"We had the BEST time with this crew! Bonnie, Devin, Olivia, and Britain were an amazing team together. They made this trip so much fun and memorable. Thank you so much!! We did the Main Salmon river section over the course of 5 days and it was a blast. I highly recommend this company."
"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!"
Annual Trip Dates
June 21
July 31
June 29
Aug 8
July 7
Aug 16
July 15
Aug 24
July 23
Sept 1
Reach out for May, early June and later September dates
We guarantee the unforgettable trip of a lifetime that you will be talking about for years to come!