MIDDLE FORK OF THE SALMON

5-Night / 6-Day Whitewater Float Trips

Welcome to the remote and rugged mountains and rivers of Central Idaho! The Middle Fork is a 104-mile free-flowing river in the heart of the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, originating 20 miles northwest of Stanley, Idaho, at the confluence of Bear Valley and Marsh Creeks.

It was one of the original eight rivers in the nation designated as Wild and Scenic on October 2, 1968. The river moves through a variety of climates and land types – from alpine forest to high mountain desert to sheer, rock-walled canyon, the third deepest in North America.

The Middle Fork is an internationally recognized whitewater/wilderness float trip, known for its scenic beauty and crystal clear whitewater. It is a non-motorized floating experience with many technical rapids. These class III and IV+ rapids offer boating excitement for both families and experienced rafters.

The Middle Fork is administered under a permit system to protect it from excessive human impact as this river corridor is rich with Native American and settler history. Part of that protection asks you, the user, to learn and practice Leave No Trace ethics. Because of its remote location, man’s presence in the area was somewhat limited, leaving it in the condition we see today. Only a few trails, landing strips, private ranches and Forest Service stations are evidence of man’s intrusion.

MAPS OF THE RIVER

Boundary Illustrated Map

Boundary River Map

Boundary River Area Map

EXPERIENCE THE MIDDLE FORK

RECOMMENDED READING

Middle Fork: A Guide
By Johnny Carrey and Cort Conley, 1992
Interesting read on the Middle Fork of the Salmon and its history.

Roadside Geology of Idaho
By David D. Alt and Donald W. Hyndman, 1989
The middle fork is very unique geologically and this book comprehensively covers the geologic story.

The Middle Fork of the Salmon River, A Guide
By Matt Leidecker, 2006
This book is a truly comprehensive guide to the river, with lots of great hiking information.