Fly to Boise and transfer to Stanley, Idaho. Tonight there's a pre-trip briefing where you will get acquainted with your guides who will answer questions, and have a short orientation to show you how to pack the waterproof gear bags that are provided for your personal gear.
Drive from Stanley to the Boundary Creek put-in (1.5 hours driving). You will go through your safety briefing and get on the river!
There is so much to do on a Middle Fork of the Salmon trip that you may need to go more than once, and a lot of people do. The whitewater is amazing, not just in difficulty but also in consistency: the whole river is like a continuous, frolicking riffle interrupted by a couple of noteworthy pulse-quickeners every day; an uncommon arrangement thanks to some unique geology, (the river flows due north). The water itself is stunningly clear, you can see fish swimming around at the bottom of 20 foot deep pools. Lots of fish, in fact, which is why the Middle Fork is world-renowned for its fly-fishing; beginner or expert you will be spoiled. The scenery has something for everyone; dense forests to start, dramatic cliffs to end, photogenic views all along. Then there are enchanting side streams, fascinating Indian rock art, abandoned homesteads, easy trails and a spectacular waterfall on day 5 that almost tops all the other attractions. And hotsprings! In one day you can run a Class IV rapid, visit 800 year old pictographs, hike up a pristine side stream, soak in a hotsprings, see a bighorn sheep and catch an 18-inch cutthroat trout on a dry fly; (and some people have done the last three at the same time).
Although there is no such thing, a typical day on the Middle Fork starts with coffee and a hearty breakfast before you pack your bags and load on to the rafts. You will float an average of 15 – 18 miles, (5 – 6 hours), each day, stopping for a picnic lunch and perhaps to take a short hike, soak in a hot spring, or explore a historical site. Camp will be made in the late afternoon with early evening available for hiking, fishing, swimming or relaxing.
Another great day on the river.
Another great day on the river.
Another great day on the river.
An early morning prepares you for some of the Middle Fork’s biggest rapids as you finish the Impassible Canyon and float on to the take-out at the confluence with the Main Salmon. Here you’ll say goodbye to the river and load the bus for the drive to Stanley. You’ll make a quick stop in North Fork to change, re-pack and say goodbye to the lead guide before continuing on to Stanley for a late evening arrival (7:00 pm).
This morning you transfer back to Boise for your flight home.
