The Salmon River 

The Salmon River begins its journey in the Salmon and Bitterroot Mountains in South Central Idaho. Its course runs north , then westward across the state through the largest roadless area in the contiguous United States, in Central Idaho. The river then traverses north to meet the immense Snake River at the Idaho/Oregon border. At over 400 miles, the Salmon is the longest undammed major river in the Lower 48, and the longest river entirely within a single state. It also considered an essential Idaho whitewater experience, with large waves and strong currents in the river channel, and amazing white sand beaches along the banks. Since there is no upstream dam to impede the free movement of natural sediments downstream, the Salmon's beaches are cleaned and refreshed every runoff season. 

Although sometimes overlooked by hardcore whitewater enthusiasts in favor of its smaller cousin, the Middle Fork Of The Salmon, the Salmon (or, the "Main", as it is referred to by the Idaho whitewater community) is a terrific whitewater experience. Rated at Class 3-4 , high flows provide the same power and thunderous intensity of classic "big water" rivers...lower and more moderate flows diminish the size of the holes and waves slightly, but present new challenges in technical maneuvering. At any flow, the Main is a great run.

We've run the river together 3 times, in 1996, 1997 and 1998. In 1998, we ran it ourselves, at a healthy 27,000 cfs at put-in. Although we had a great trip and may do it again, we want to be clear on this -- we DO NOT recommend running significant whitewater like this unless you're experienced, and certainly not by yourself. The Main is a large, fast and powerful  river, it does not forgive inexperience or disrespect, and like any river, can dish out sudden and harsh lessons.   

Looking downstream, coming up to one of the Salmon's 80+ rapids. In the distance, a view of the Salmon Mountains, through which the river flows in one of the deepest river drainages in North America. 

Next Salmon photo....
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