Salmon River

This scenic “River of No Return” was formed 35 to 45 million years ago and is the longest free flowing river (425 miles) within one state in the lower 48. The Salmon River’s granite-walled canyons represent the second deepest gorge on the continent, second only to Hells Canyon. Forty-six miles of the Salmon River are classified as recreational and 79 miles are wild and the canyons showcase some of the oldest rocks in Idaho. A wealth of wildlife call the Salmon River Canyon home, including bighorn sheep, bobcat, black bear and beaver, as well as a variety of fish such as cutthroat trout, rainbow trout and bull trout. The white-water rafting opportunities along the Middle Fork Salmon River are unsurpassed in the state.

Location: In the Challis National Forest and in the Frank Church “River of No Return” Wilderness. For information on the stretch through the Challis BLM Field Office, see the Boating section of the site.

Facilities / Fees:

Permits are required for float boats and jetboats on the wild section of the Salmon River from June 20 through September 7.

Floaters are required to carry fire pans, porta-pottys, ash containers, shovel, bucket and food strainer.