Main Salmon River Whitewater Rafting Trip - 6 Days, 5 Nights

With MRO Exclusive China Bar Lodge Stay

Join us on Idaho’s premier rafting trip down the iconic Main Salmon River—an 80+ mile journey through the Frank Church “River of No Return” Wilderness and the second-deepest canyon in North America. This six-day adventure delivers it all: stunning scenery, exciting whitewater, rich history, and wilderness comfort with an exclusive stay at China Bar Lodge.

Paddle through steep granite walls and forested canyons, soak in natural hot springs, and unwind on massive white sand beaches unique to Idaho’s free-flowing rivers. With warm water and wild views, you’ll get up close to the rugged geology and remote beauty of central Idaho.

The Main Salmon is packed with legendary rapids like Elkhorn, Alder, Gun Barrel, Devil’s Teeth, Big Mallard, Black Canyon Falls, Growler, Split Rock, and Carey Falls. From big wave trains to calm pools, the river has something for every comfort level—whether you're chasing adrenaline or a peaceful float through wild country.

Along the way, step into the lives of canyon pioneers and mountain men like Buckskin Bill, Reho Wolfe, and Jim Moore. You’ll explore historic sites like China Bar, Mackay Bar, Campbell’s Ferry, and spot Native American pictographs on canyon walls.

Each night, you’ll pull into a new riverside camp where guides take care of everything—from setting up your tent and lounge area to serving up hot drinks and delicious meals. Kick back under the stars and soak in the rhythm of the river. On night three of your wilderness adventure, you'll arrive at MRO’s exclusive China Bar Lodge—where you can freshen up with a hot shower, enjoy a hearty lunch on the deck overlooking the Salmon River, and settle into a cozy cabin with indoor plumbing, a real bed, and a delicious dinner prepared by your guides and lodge staff.

With breathtaking views, rich stories, and remote luxury, this is more than a rafting trip—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime Idaho adventure your family will never forget.

Duration

6 days | 80+ miles on the river

Launch Site: Corn Creek - the official starting point for Main Salmon River rafting trips, just inside the boundary of the Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness. It’s located about 45 miles west of North Fork, Idaho, north of Salmon, Idaho.

Take Out: Carey Creek - the standard take-out for Main Salmon trips, located downstream near the confluence of the Salmon and Snake Rivers. From here, you will be shuttled back to Riggins.

Availability: June 20 - September 10 (Click Reserve for Exact Dates)

Location / Where to Meet

You'll meet in Riggins, ID, at MRO Headquarters at our S & S Outfitters Store, 1323 S Main St in Riggins, the evening before your launch date, no later than 8:00 PM Mountain Time, for a pre-trip orientation. During the meeting, you’ll receive your complimentary MRO duffel and trip mug—yours to keep as a souvenir. You’ll also be provided with a personal dry bag and a large camp bag that includes a sleeping bag and pillow for the trip. This is a great time to ask your guides any last-minute questions and pick up any gear or supplies you might still need.

The next morning, you’ll be transported to the launch site, where your rafts and guides will be ready and waiting. Depending on river conditions, you’ll either enjoy a thrilling jet boat ride up the Salmon River or, if water levels are lower, fly over the wilderness to the town of Salmon and shuttle to the Corn Creek launch site.

Ages & Requirements

Minimum age: 7 years old

Ages may increase during high water season (May & June)

What's Included

Transportation is provided to Vinegar Creek Boat Launch from Riggins to board the Jet Boat, or, if the water levels are too low, to the McCall airport where you will fly over the “River of No Return” wilderness to Salmon, ID. From there, you will be shuttled to launch site at Corn Creek. An additional fee may be charged to cover flight costs.
All rafting and safety gear
All river meals and kitchen items
Dry bags for personal gear: You will receive this at the pre-trip orientation, and all your clothes will fit in this 15″ X 25″ duffel, not including your shoes. Small personal dry bags are for belongings you would like to have available during the day on the water.
Camping Gear: 20° sleeping bags with freshly laundered liner, camp pillow, a roomy tent (family tents are available on request), and comfortable 3″ deluxe sleeping pads. You may bring your own sleeping bag if you prefer.

Not Included

Lodging in Riggins
Charter flight from Riggins, if necessary
Gratuity for your guides
Personal clothing

What to Bring

Swimsuit – You will want to have a few depending on trip length
Raingear – can also be used for a light jacket if temps are cool
Quick drying shirts for the river – cotton around camp is fine
Sun hat (baseball cap, visor, large brimmed hat)
Comfortable pair of pants, shorts, shoes and socks for camp
Sunglasses, Camera, Flashlight, Binoculars
River sandals or water shoes
Water Bottle
Wetsuit, splash gear provided by MRO for cool weather trips
Cash for gratuity

Check out our detailed packing list in the FAQs below.

Boise Outdoor Adventures