FAQ
As always, safety is our first priority. Under medical direction, Boundary Expeditions has implemented enhanced health and safety measures to address concerns and mitigate risk related to COVID-19 for all guests and guides. This includes pre-screening, declaration of health forms, and heightened cleaning and sanitization routines. As a guest it is important that you work with your fellow guests and guides to adhere to guidelines set forth by the CDC allowing for us all to have a safe and enjoyable adventure on the river.
The Middle Fork of the Salmon is home to some of the cleanest and freshest air in the lower 48 states. By nature of being outdoors, much of the time there will be plenty of space to keep personal distance. However, your safety is still our top priority. While masks are not required for on-river travel, we strongly encourage guests to wear a mask/face covering for any associated air transfers or vehicle shuttles to and from the river. Once on the river, you may use masks or a Buff at your discretion.
Middle fork trips are 6 peaceful and invigorating days on the river.
Weather in the wilderness can be unpredictable. Generally, the best weather is from Mid-June through Mid-August. It can be very warm with highs in the 80s to 90s. In late May and early June it is important to be prepared with layers. We suggest you pack according to our suggested packing list. For the most accurate weather forecast, please look at Salmon, ID weather.
To watch the river flows please follow these links:
See our packing videos or refer to our packing list of recommended items and what to bring for your safety and comfort.
If you are taking a trip during low water and have to fly to your put in it is possible there will be a weight limit. During regular trips there is not a weight limit but your gear will need to fit into your one large drybag and one small day bag.
See our individual trip pages for more information:
Boundary Expeditions employs the best professional outdoorsmen. Each trip is guided by experienced licensed guides, Our guide to guest ratio is higher than other companies allowing us to customize each trip to our guest needs and provide great service. Each member of our crew brings forth a unique personality that collectively makes for a fun and safe trip for our guests.
All of our crew are active outdoorsman and willing to share their enthusiasm and knowledge with others. You will find our guides' zest for life and adventure contagious as they share, teach, laugh, and enjoy each day with you on your trip. You will note how hard they work and how well they work as a team, making you feel secure and relaxed as you travel with them through this incredible place they choose to spend their entire summer.
They are a great example of working hard and playing hard. You will be amazed at how well they take care of you and your group with a smile, confidence, and positive attitude. Guides will have wilderness first responder and swiftwater rescue certification.
Guests have the opportunity to hike each day, and Boundary takes pride in our historic knowledge of the area and expertise in the flora and fauna. We will take as many excursions as possible. There are several hot springs along the river to enjoy, all of which are pristine and undeveloped.
If you are itching to get off the raft while on the river we will have blow up kayaks available for use. Fishing is very popular on the river as well, the Middle Fork is world class fishery with several native species of trout. In the evenings games or painting or just relaxing by the fire are fun activities.
Timing of your trip depends on what kind of experience you would prefer. Early season (late May and early June) will have peak flow, so you will enjoy more rapids and a faster trip. Families tend to like the July and August trips because the weather and water are warmer and the river’s flow is lower.
Clean toilet facilities will be set up in an area of camp that is private and has a screen. There is a multi step hand washing system that is present at camp at all times. Our guides will instruct you on how to properly use the toilet to minimize impacts to the river. You can also watch our video ahead of time. Sanitation is very important to us and we will maintain privacy, cleanliness and comfort for our guests. Women may want to bring a ziplock bag for feminine products or handwipes in their daybag.
As far as showering, you may choose to take a soak in a hot spring or a swim in the river to stay clean, or utilize our pressurized hot water shower for guests, which is lovely. This shower allows you all the water and time you need.
Soap of any kind is not allowed in the hot springs or the river.
You will get a much needed technology break on the river. Although it takes a day or two to get used to this afterward guests are thrilled to have this break. This allows for connection on an entirely different level.
Note: we do have a satellite phone that we carry for emergencies.
Our office will obtain a list of people that you would like to have be able to contact you while you are on the river. Our guides will check messages every day.
Yes, meals are included. We are passionate about providing an excellent culinary experience for our guests. We pride ourselves in using locally sourced and sustainably produced products whenever possible.
We serve healthy complete meals with delicious fruits and vegetables all throughout the trip.
For breakfast: A sampling of what guides will prepare includes pancakes, eggs made to order, fresh fruit, oven potatoes, cinnamon rolls, juice, coffee brewed cowboy style, hot cocoa and of course, the all important bacon.
For lunch: Could include chopped salads, an array of meat and cheese, veggies, an assortment of breads, hummus, cookies and more.
For dinner: When you arrive at camp you will have hors d'oeuvres like guacamole, spiced nuts, fresh fruit, fresh tapenade with crostinis. The main course will include amazing meats like steak and salmon accompanied by vegetables, pasta and rice. We will also offer many dutch oven options that are sure to make your mouth water. Desserts are frequent and delicious and include options like blueberry crumb cake, carrot cake and dutch oven smores. You will eat well and we will do the work!
Please notify us if you have any food allergies and we will do our best to accommodate.
Each day the group will spend about 4-5 hours on the river. If you are an early riser you will have the opportunity to enjoy a short hike or some fishing prior to breakfast. Breakfast is typically served around 8 am, with a goal of being on the water prior to 10 am. Lunch will be taken at a lovely picnic area along the river, maybe playing bocce ball or walking to a waterfall before we meander toward our campsite for the evening.
We will arrive to camp mid to late afternoon with plenty of time for hiking, fishing, horseshoeing or just relaxing. Our days generally follow the light cycle of the time of year and the water flows. Evenings may include painting, walking to a nearby hot spring or pictograph, relaxing around the fire, roasting smores, and more.
Yes, Boundary is happy to discuss custom packages and help you come up with a trip to meet all of your needs.
Because we are a small company with a very limited floating season, we cannot assume the rusk of loss for client cancellations. Consequently, neither deposits , USFS day fees or full trip fees are refundable. Guest substitutes are welcome. No refunds under any circumstance will be given.
Boundary Expeditions reserves the right to cancel any trip based on weather, water level , fire danger or inadequate bookings. In such cases, every effort will be made to either transfer your trip to a later trip in the same year or the following season.
We recommend guests research travel insurance options before arriving: www.travelguard.com. Please review our fine print policies prior to booking.
Yes, but we will not supply a dry box for these items so please plan to bring a waterproof case.
Our guides work hard and do appreciate tips as part of their income. if you feel your guide has helped you create a special trip, you can leave gratuity with your trip leader. While not expected, it’s appreciated. A tip of between 15-20% of the trip cost is common. Remember, if you plan to tip, bring cash or check because you will not have access to an ATM on the river.
We prefer no stereos, but musical instruments are welcome. Just remember to bring a good case for it and don’t choose your most expensive piece.
Boundary can provide fly rods with advance requests. Just let us know if you plan to fish and need to rent gear.
If you’re bringing your own gear, we suggest:
- Fly rod (4 to 6 weight)
- Reel & line (4 to 6 weight, double taper floating line)
- Protective case for rod
- Vest or fishing bag
- Leaders (6 to 7 ½ foot tapered leaders size 3X or 4X) and tippet material 4X or 5X to add onto tapered leaders
- Polarized glasses
- For dry flies we recommend black ants, elk hair caddis, Royal wulff attractor flies and a wide variety of hoppers.
- For nymph fishing we recommend having imitations for mayflies, stoneflies and caddis flies.
If you are interested in booking a fishing specific trip, please give us a call and we will be happy to work with you to create this trip.
You can purchase a fishing license at the Idaho Fish & Game website.
Our guides are trained in first aid, and many have EMT or First Responder Training. The guides will assess the situation and if they are unable to provide first aid they will make a decision on next steps, including evacuation. This is a great reason to purchase travel insurance as all emergency costs are born by the person being evacuated.
