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Join date: Jan 19, 2023

About

Justin Smith is the General Manager of Adventure Idaho Rafting, one of Idaho’s top-rated rafting outfitters specializing in guided trips on the Salmon and Snake Rivers. With over a decade of experience in whitewater operations, guide training, and wilderness leadership, Justin has helped shape a culture of professionalism, safety, and service in the outdoor recreation industry.


A lifelong Idaho outdoorsman and guide trainer, Justin has led thousands of guests down some of the most iconic rivers in the American West. His leadership style combines field-tested experience with modern safety practices, including advanced swiftwater rescue, Leave No Trace education, and whitewater rescue.


Justin also oversees Adventure Idaho’s guide training curriculum, promoting mentorship, integrity, and sustainability within the guiding community.


When he’s not running rivers, Justin is usually exploring Idaho’s backcountry with his family, producing outdoor content, or building tools that help outfitters and guides grow stronger, safer teams.

Posts (34)

Jan 12, 2026 ∙ 2 min
The Great Groover Mix-Up
On remote wilderness rivers like the Salmon, Leave No Trace is not optional. We are required to pack in and pack out everything, including human waste, to preserve the pristine sandy beaches and camps that make these trips so special. To do this, we use a fully enclosed, sanitary river toilet system known as the groover. We always include a privacy tent, and while privacy is guaranteed, the scenery is hard to beat. Years ago, on a multi-day trip, the lead guide set up camp and placed the...
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Jan 11, 2026 ∙ 4 min
Youth Rafting Trips and Travel Planning: What to Know
Planning a youth rafting trip comes down to choosing the right river and the right structure. With decades of experience working with youth groups, we have a clear understanding of what consistently works and what does not. Below is a straightforward breakdown to help leaders plan with confidence. Youth Groups Continue to Travel for High-Quality River Experiences We have dozens of youth groups on the 2026 schedule from across the Mountain West, including Idaho, Utah, and Washington , as well...
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Dec 26, 2025 ∙ 3 min
River Booty: What the Salmon River Gave Back in 2025
Every rafting season, there is an unspoken competition among our guides. Who can find the most interesting thing left behind in the river. We call it River Booty . River Booty is anything the river claims and sometimes gives back. Lost gear from trips gone sideways. Moments that got a little too exciting. Things people definitely did not plan on donating to the Salmon River. Most years, the usual suspects show up. Paddles. Oars. Sunglasses. Jackets blown away in camp. The occasional rope that...
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