Idaho Middle Fork of the Salmon River 100-Mile Rafting
Boise, Idaho to Boise, Idaho
Highlights:
- Have a blast on one of National Geographic's top-rated whitewater rafting trips, deep in the heart of Idaho's Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness
- Paddle or float to suit your activity level and choose a new experience every day-this trip is great for all ages and all activity levels; it is like summer camp for the whole family!
- Compare the value! We offer the most inclusive Middle Fork trip, with all your travel arrangements, transportation and lodging, carefully orchestrated for a worry-free vacation.
Important Trip Details:
Previous rafting experience is not necessary. However, you need to be in good physical condition. Since we are in a remote wilderness location. Each day, loading and unloading into the raft can be on sandy beaches or uneven rocky shores. It is a necessity that all travelers are stable and sturdy on their feet in uneven terrain.
Minimum Age: 7
- Adventure and Active
- Camping and Glamping
- Family Vacations
CALL
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ID: 8369764
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ID: 8369765
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ID: 8369768
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ID: 8369769
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ID: 8369764
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ID: 8369765
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ID: 8369766
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ID: 8369767
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ID: 8369768
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ID: 8369769
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Day: 1, duration: 1
Mountain Village Hotel
Begin your Middle Fork adventure in Stanley's Mountain Village Lodge, shadowed by the jagged teeth of the Sawtooth Mountain Range on the Salmon River. The comfortable guest rooms are well-appointed with modern amenities, fitting a mountain inn.
Day: 2, duration: 5MT Sobek Camp—Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
Your Middle Fork camping experience includes five nights on the banks of Idaho's Salmon River, with full porterage and set up. Our dome-style tents are large enough to stand in, and include sleeping pads, cots, and professionally laundered sleeping bags. You can even take a sun-heated shower after a day on the water. All camping spots are on beautiful beaches or plateaus next to the river, with fantastic views every day.Day: 7, duration: 1
Stagecoach Inn
A historic gem in the scenic town of Salmon, Idaho, the Stagecoach Inn exudes charm and character. Dating back to the early 20th century, this quaint inn has been a witness to the region's rich history and transformation. The inn's cozy rooms are tastefully decorated, offering a blend of comfort and nostalgia. The Stagecoach Inn's central location in Salmon makes it a convenient base for exploring the nearby natural wonders, including the breathtaking Salmon River and the rugged landscapes of the Salmon-Challis National Forest.
Levi Weilert
Levi grew up in rural Kansas. From flowing fields of wheat to the flowing rivers of the Southwest, Levi has always had a passion for the natural world. He’s been guiding since 2016, running rivers in Utah, Colorado, Idaho, Montana and Mexico, and hiking adventures in Texas and Utah. He enjoys opening the door to new experiences for guests. As the son of a writer, he has inherited a passion for bringing a unique perspective to sharing his insights and stories in nature.
Brendan Tomb
Brendan Tomb grew up inside Adirondack Park as one of a set of triplets, collectively referred to as the “Boyz” by their mother. Spending their childhood in the first Forever Wild Forest Preserve in the country, the “Boyz” were introduced at an early age to the wonders of hiking, rafting, and Nordic and alpine skiing. Brendan then set out on his own path, competing on the Rugby team while attending Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland. Today you can find him sharing his passion for the outdoors—teaching snow sports in the winter, leading National Park hikes in the spring and fall, and guiding our rafting trips each summer. Brendan is dedicated to sharing his enthusiasm for nature and adventure with others, making each season an opportunity to explore and appreciate the wonders of the outdoors.
Paul Britt
Born and raised in the foothills of western North Carolina, Paul’s farm town roots combined with outdoor leadership in his young adult years fostered a deep love for the Earth and a strong instinct to see what lies beyond the familiar horizon. After completing his undergraduate degree at UNC-Chapel Hill, he moved to the Rocky Mountains, living in Colorado, Montana, and Idaho, and worked as a horseman, ranch foreman and hunting outfitter, and search and rescue professional. Since 2025 he has spent winters as a ski instructor in Colorado and summers as a river guide and trip leader for MT Sobek in Utah, Idaho, and Montana.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Reason #01
MT Sobek has been operating trips on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River since 2007 and Sobek has been a pioneering rafting company for more than 50 years. Join us on one of the world's greatest river trips!Reason #02
Professional river guides follow Leave No Trace policies to maintain a pristine environment and will wow you with their wilderness cooking skills.Reason #03
Compare the value! We offer the most inclusive Middle Fork trips, with all your travel arrangements, transportation, and lodging, carefully orchestrated for a worry-free vacation.Activities
Exciting whitewater rafting on Class II-IV rapids, paddling 10-19 miles per day, with short hiking excursions on the river's scenic banks.Lodging
A comfortable hotel in Stanley, followed by MT Sobek's deluxe riverside camps, with meals served around the campfire beneath the stars.Climate
Summer daytime temperatures range between 60-90°F, and evenings between 40-60°F. June trips are cooler. Salmon River water temperatures average 58-65°F.Where do I meet the group on the first day?
Please arrive in Boise, ID (BOI) by 1:00 pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Your guide will meet you and your fellow travelers at the airport for a brief welcome before boarding your flight from Boise, ID to Stanley, ID. Upon arrival in Stanley, you will check in to your hotel followed by a casual welcome orientation and dinner. Those who prefer to drive to Stanley can meet at the hotel in Stanley at 6pm.Do I need to have prior rafting experience to raft the Middle Fork of the Salmon River?
This trip is rated activity Level 2. Previous rafting experience is not necessary, but you need to be in good physical condition. This trip occurs in a remote wilderness location, where each day loading and unloading into the raft can be on sandy beaches or uneven, rocky shores. It is a necessity that all travelers are stable and sturdy on their feet in uneven terrain.What is the maximum group size on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River?
For scheduled departures, the maximum number of guests that we can take is 20 and the minimum is 7. You can sign up as a solo, as a couple, or as a small or large group until we max out our space. Looking to take over an entire date for your own private group? Call us on 800-974-0300 for more details.Is this Middle Fork of the Salmon River rafting trip good for families?
Yes, the Middle Fork of the Salmon river is an excellent trip for small and large families and no prior rafting experience is required. Rafting the Middle Fork of the Salmon offers families a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable experience for all ages. Check out our current family savings!
Scenic Beauty: The Middle Fork of the Salmon flows through the heart of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, offering breathtaking scenery characterized by towering cliffs, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. Families can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and create lasting memories together.
Mild Rapids: While the Middle Fork features thrilling rapids, they are generally of moderate difficulty, making it suitable for families with children. Experienced guides navigate the river safely, ensuring an exciting yet manageable adventure for everyone on board.
Adventure for All Ages: From children (7+) to grandparents, the Middle Fork provides opportunities for every family member to participate in the adventure. Whether it's paddling through rapids, swimming in calm stretches, or exploring scenic hikes along the riverbanks, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Educational Opportunities: Rafting the Middle Fork offers valuable educational experiences for children, allowing them to learn about river ecosystems, wildlife, and local history from knowledgeable guides. It's a hands-on learning adventure that fosters curiosity and appreciation for the natural world.
Quality Time Together: Rafting trips on the Middle Fork provide uninterrupted quality time for families to unplug and reconnect without the distractions of daily life.
Professional Guidance & Safety: Professional rafting outfitters on the Middle Fork prioritize safety above all else, ensuring that families can enjoy their adventure with peace of mind. Experienced guides provide thorough safety briefings, instruction on rafting techniques, and are equipped with necessary safety gear to handle any situation that may arise.
What is the minimum age for the Middle Fork of the Salmon River trip?
The minimum age on our family friendly departures is 7. For any other departure, the minimum age is 18.What is the difference between the 75-mile trip and this 100-mile rafting trip?
The 100-mile trip in June and July starts at Mile 1 at Boundary Creek and runs to the take out at Cache Creek, just after the Middle Fork of the Salmon and main Salmon merge. When the water levels go down in August it is more challenging to run the upper section of the Middle Fork, so we fly into Indian Creek at mile 25. The rest of the 75-mile trip is the same as the 100-mile version. Both MT Sobek Middle Fork options have been created for a stress-free experience, including both pre-and-post hotels and flights.What is the best month to raft the Middle Fork of the Salmon River?
The best time to run the Middle Fork of the Salmon River is between June and August. Every year varies in weather and snowpack, but the river is highest in June and the water levels gradually recede through July and August. June begins with the most exciting rapids, but some days can still be cool and rainy, and the water is colder. The high water allows for fast travel on the raft and the cooler temperatures are often excellent for hiking. In July, the water is still high enough to float the upper 25-mile section, but the weather and water are warmer allowing for more water play: swimming, using inflatable kayaks, and more. Many of us secretly love August! The water is lower, but the exposed rocks make the rapids more technical and require a skillful guide. The expanded beaches and the crystal-clear water afford lots of opportunities for playing both in and out of the water. MT Sobek runs Middle Fork trips in June, July, and August.Are meals and camping included on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River?
Yes, your Middle Fork of the Salmon River rafting experience includes all meals and snacks. Wine and beer are not included but can be brought on the trip for personal consumption. We also provide all the camping gear including roomy dome tents, camping pads, and freshly laundered sleeping bags. Each day, our set-up team will raft ahead to ensure that everything is ready for you when you arrive at camp.What experience does MT Sobek have on the river?
We have been operating trips on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River since 2007 and Sobek has been a pioneering rafting company for more than 50 years. Our operation is fully permitted with the Salmon-Challis National Forest, and we are one of a few commercial outfitters allowed to run the Middle Fork of the Salmon River each year.Are there any group savings?
Yes, we offer two ways to enjoy group savings on many adventures in North America, including this one. Either bring a group of 10 and receive 10% off per person or opt for an eleventh person to go for free! Call our expert Trip Consultants on 800-974-0300 to discuss group savings options.
Day: 1, duration: 1
Mountain Village Hotel
Begin your Middle Fork adventure in Stanley's Mountain Village Lodge, shadowed by the jagged teeth of the Sawtooth Mountain Range on the Salmon River. The comfortable guest rooms are well-appointed with modern amenities, fitting a mountain inn.
Day: 2, duration: 5MT Sobek Camp—Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho
Your Middle Fork camping experience includes five nights on the banks of Idaho's Salmon River, with full porterage and set up. Our dome-style tents are large enough to stand in, and include sleeping pads, cots, and professionally laundered sleeping bags. You can even take a sun-heated shower after a day on the water. All camping spots are on beautiful beaches or plateaus next to the river, with fantastic views every day.Day: 7, duration: 1
Stagecoach Inn
A historic gem in the scenic town of Salmon, Idaho, the Stagecoach Inn exudes charm and character. Dating back to the early 20th century, this quaint inn has been a witness to the region's rich history and transformation. The inn's cozy rooms are tastefully decorated, offering a blend of comfort and nostalgia. The Stagecoach Inn's central location in Salmon makes it a convenient base for exploring the nearby natural wonders, including the breathtaking Salmon River and the rugged landscapes of the Salmon-Challis National Forest.
Levi Weilert
Levi grew up in rural Kansas. From flowing fields of wheat to the flowing rivers of the Southwest, Levi has always had a passion for the natural world. He’s been guiding since 2016, running rivers in Utah, Colorado, Idaho, Montana and Mexico, and hiking adventures in Texas and Utah. He enjoys opening the door to new experiences for guests. As the son of a writer, he has inherited a passion for bringing a unique perspective to sharing his insights and stories in nature.
Brendan Tomb
Brendan Tomb grew up inside Adirondack Park as one of a set of triplets, collectively referred to as the “Boyz” by their mother. Spending their childhood in the first Forever Wild Forest Preserve in the country, the “Boyz” were introduced at an early age to the wonders of hiking, rafting, and Nordic and alpine skiing. Brendan then set out on his own path, competing on the Rugby team while attending Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland. Today you can find him sharing his passion for the outdoors—teaching snow sports in the winter, leading National Park hikes in the spring and fall, and guiding our rafting trips each summer. Brendan is dedicated to sharing his enthusiasm for nature and adventure with others, making each season an opportunity to explore and appreciate the wonders of the outdoors.
Paul Britt
Born and raised in the foothills of western North Carolina, Paul’s farm town roots combined with outdoor leadership in his young adult years fostered a deep love for the Earth and a strong instinct to see what lies beyond the familiar horizon. After completing his undergraduate degree at UNC-Chapel Hill, he moved to the Rocky Mountains, living in Colorado, Montana, and Idaho, and worked as a horseman, ranch foreman and hunting outfitter, and search and rescue professional. Since 2025 he has spent winters as a ski instructor in Colorado and summers as a river guide and trip leader for MT Sobek in Utah, Idaho, and Montana.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Reason #01
MT Sobek has been operating trips on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River since 2007 and Sobek has been a pioneering rafting company for more than 50 years. Join us on one of the world's greatest river trips!Reason #02
Professional river guides follow Leave No Trace policies to maintain a pristine environment and will wow you with their wilderness cooking skills.Reason #03
Compare the value! We offer the most inclusive Middle Fork trips, with all your travel arrangements, transportation, and lodging, carefully orchestrated for a worry-free vacation.Activities
Exciting whitewater rafting on Class II-IV rapids, paddling 10-19 miles per day, with short hiking excursions on the river's scenic banks.Lodging
A comfortable hotel in Stanley, followed by MT Sobek's deluxe riverside camps, with meals served around the campfire beneath the stars.Climate
Summer daytime temperatures range between 60-90°F, and evenings between 40-60°F. June trips are cooler. Salmon River water temperatures average 58-65°F.Where do I meet the group on the first day?
Please arrive in Boise, ID (BOI) by 1:00 pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Your guide will meet you and your fellow travelers at the airport for a brief welcome before boarding your flight from Boise, ID to Stanley, ID. Upon arrival in Stanley, you will check in to your hotel followed by a casual welcome orientation and dinner. Those who prefer to drive to Stanley can meet at the hotel in Stanley at 6pm.Do I need to have prior rafting experience to raft the Middle Fork of the Salmon River?
This trip is rated activity Level 2. Previous rafting experience is not necessary, but you need to be in good physical condition. This trip occurs in a remote wilderness location, where each day loading and unloading into the raft can be on sandy beaches or uneven, rocky shores. It is a necessity that all travelers are stable and sturdy on their feet in uneven terrain.What is the maximum group size on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River?
For scheduled departures, the maximum number of guests that we can take is 20 and the minimum is 7. You can sign up as a solo, as a couple, or as a small or large group until we max out our space. Looking to take over an entire date for your own private group? Call us on 800-974-0300 for more details.Is this Middle Fork of the Salmon River rafting trip good for families?
Yes, the Middle Fork of the Salmon river is an excellent trip for small and large families and no prior rafting experience is required. Rafting the Middle Fork of the Salmon offers families a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable experience for all ages. Check out our current family savings!
Scenic Beauty: The Middle Fork of the Salmon flows through the heart of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, offering breathtaking scenery characterized by towering cliffs, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. Families can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and create lasting memories together.
Mild Rapids: While the Middle Fork features thrilling rapids, they are generally of moderate difficulty, making it suitable for families with children. Experienced guides navigate the river safely, ensuring an exciting yet manageable adventure for everyone on board.
Adventure for All Ages: From children (7+) to grandparents, the Middle Fork provides opportunities for every family member to participate in the adventure. Whether it's paddling through rapids, swimming in calm stretches, or exploring scenic hikes along the riverbanks, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Educational Opportunities: Rafting the Middle Fork offers valuable educational experiences for children, allowing them to learn about river ecosystems, wildlife, and local history from knowledgeable guides. It's a hands-on learning adventure that fosters curiosity and appreciation for the natural world.
Quality Time Together: Rafting trips on the Middle Fork provide uninterrupted quality time for families to unplug and reconnect without the distractions of daily life.
Professional Guidance & Safety: Professional rafting outfitters on the Middle Fork prioritize safety above all else, ensuring that families can enjoy their adventure with peace of mind. Experienced guides provide thorough safety briefings, instruction on rafting techniques, and are equipped with necessary safety gear to handle any situation that may arise.
What is the minimum age for the Middle Fork of the Salmon River trip?
The minimum age on our family friendly departures is 7. For any other departure, the minimum age is 18.What is the difference between the 75-mile trip and this 100-mile rafting trip?
The 100-mile trip in June and July starts at Mile 1 at Boundary Creek and runs to the take out at Cache Creek, just after the Middle Fork of the Salmon and main Salmon merge. When the water levels go down in August it is more challenging to run the upper section of the Middle Fork, so we fly into Indian Creek at mile 25. The rest of the 75-mile trip is the same as the 100-mile version. Both MT Sobek Middle Fork options have been created for a stress-free experience, including both pre-and-post hotels and flights.What is the best month to raft the Middle Fork of the Salmon River?
The best time to run the Middle Fork of the Salmon River is between June and August. Every year varies in weather and snowpack, but the river is highest in June and the water levels gradually recede through July and August. June begins with the most exciting rapids, but some days can still be cool and rainy, and the water is colder. The high water allows for fast travel on the raft and the cooler temperatures are often excellent for hiking. In July, the water is still high enough to float the upper 25-mile section, but the weather and water are warmer allowing for more water play: swimming, using inflatable kayaks, and more. Many of us secretly love August! The water is lower, but the exposed rocks make the rapids more technical and require a skillful guide. The expanded beaches and the crystal-clear water afford lots of opportunities for playing both in and out of the water. MT Sobek runs Middle Fork trips in June, July, and August.Are meals and camping included on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River?
Yes, your Middle Fork of the Salmon River rafting experience includes all meals and snacks. Wine and beer are not included but can be brought on the trip for personal consumption. We also provide all the camping gear including roomy dome tents, camping pads, and freshly laundered sleeping bags. Each day, our set-up team will raft ahead to ensure that everything is ready for you when you arrive at camp.What experience does MT Sobek have on the river?
We have been operating trips on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River since 2007 and Sobek has been a pioneering rafting company for more than 50 years. Our operation is fully permitted with the Salmon-Challis National Forest, and we are one of a few commercial outfitters allowed to run the Middle Fork of the Salmon River each year.Are there any group savings?
Yes, we offer two ways to enjoy group savings on many adventures in North America, including this one. Either bring a group of 10 and receive 10% off per person or opt for an eleventh person to go for free! Call our expert Trip Consultants on 800-974-0300 to discuss group savings options.
About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go.
Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go.
Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.