Main Salmon
The River of No Return
Rafting the Main Salmon
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.
Rapids
Class III - IV
Changes with flow.
Duration
5 Days, 4 Nights
Shorter trips available during high water in May/Early June.
Group Size
Min 6, Max 25
Not enough people? Reach out and we can work the magic!
Packing List
Detailed packing list will be provided.
View Here
Large Groups
Large groups can reach out for group pricing.
Private Charter Trips Available
Physical Requirements
Review our Essential Physical Requirements
80 Miles of Adventure
Wildlife
Buckskin Bill Museum
Scenic Side Hikes
Fully Catered
Campfire Stories
Sandy Beach Camps
Natural History
Starry Nights
Exciting Rapids
Kayaks Available
Hot Springs
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!
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.
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 $2,250 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 $225 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.
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!