TRIP OVERVIEW
DETAILS
Difficulty
Class II–III (Suitable for most skill levels)
Minimum Age
7 years old (Varies based on water level)
Season
Late May through Early September
Duration
4 days / 3 nights
Put In
Hammer Creek Boat Ramp
Take Out
Heller Bar Boat Ramp
Meeting Location
Hammer Creek Boat Ramp (see directions here)
River Stretch
Lower Salmon River, Idaho
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Rafting Equipment:
High-quality self-bailing rafts, paddles, PFDs (personal flotation devices/life jackets), and wetsuits (if required by weather).
Safety Gear:
Comprehensive first aid and emergency communication equipment.
Camping Gear:
Tents, sleeping pads, sleeping bags, camp chairs, and kitchen/dining equipment.
Meals:
All meals from the first day's lunch through the last day's lunch. Meals are prepared fresh and often include options for dietary restrictions (must be arranged in advance).
Professional Guides:
Experienced, certified, and licensed whitewater guides specializing in the Lower Salmon River. Our guides are trained on this stretch of river. They also have swiftwater rescue certifications, and are trained in CPR/First Aid and trauma response.
Transportation:
Shuttle service to the put-in point. You will return to your vehicle.
Dry Bags:
One large and one small dry bag per person for personal gear.
WHAT TO BRING
Personal Clothing:
Appropriate layers for river and camp use (see "Packing List" section).
Personal Toiletries & Medications:
Sunscreen, bug spray, necessary prescriptions.
Gratuities:
Tipping the guide staff is customary (20% of trip cost) and greatly appreciated.
Alcoholic Beverages:
Guests typically purchase and transport their own alcoholic drinks; coordinate with the outfitter on packaging and transport limits.
TYPICAL ITINERARY
SALMON RIVER
DAY TRIP
8:30 am
Check-in at Lucile Boat Ramp, see directions here. Gear distribution.
9:30 am
Safety Briefing and Paddle Talk by Lead Guide at Put-in.
9:45 am
Launch onto the Salmon River!
12:30 pm
Riverside Lunch (Deli-style sandwiches, fresh fruit, snacks, beverages).
1:30 pm
Continue Rafting, navigating notable rapids (Ruby, Lake Creek, Time Zone, Tight Squeeze, Chair, and Traps) and enjoying swimming/scenic breaks.
4:00 pm
Arrive at the take out at Lucile Boat Ramp. You can gather your personal gear and drive out.
Gallery
River Conditions
Water Source:
Snowmelt from the central Idaho mountains
High Water (May/Early June):
Faster pace, bigger waves, more challenging rapids (Class III+)
Medium Water (Mid-June/July):
Optimal balance of excitement and swimming/floating opportunities
Low Water (August/September): Warmer water, slower pace, increased exposure of sandy beaches for camping
Water Temperature:
Varies from 45°F–65°F (May–Sept). Wetsuits usually recommended in May/June
Air Temperature:
Typically hot and dry in the summer months (75°F–100°F)
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Reservations:
A deposit (usually 10%) is required at the time of booking. Full payment is typically due 14 days prior to the trip launch date.
Cancellation:
Policies vary, but generally, deposits are non-refundable. Cancellations made within the final payment window may result in the forfeiture of the entire trip cost unless a replacement can be found or trip insurance is utilized.
Trip Insurance:
Highly recommended to protect against unforeseen circumstances, including medical issues or travel delays.
Safety Protocol
All guides are certified in First Aid/CPR, Swiftwater Rescue, and are extensively trained on the specific hazards of the Lower Salmon River.
A thorough safety orientation is conducted before launching.
PFDs must be worn while on the river.
Guides carry satellite communication devices for emergency use.
book today!
Book today to guarantee your spot. We would love to see you on the river!