Middle Fork FAQ

Not at all! We frequently take first-time rafters down the Middle Fork. At the start of the trip, we conduct a safety orientation and paddle demonstration to ensure everyone feels prepared. However, you do need to meet our Essential Eligibility Criteria

The best time depends on the type of experience you’re looking for! The Middle Fork of the Salmon is a free-flowing river, so water levels vary throughout the season and from year to year, based on Idaho’s winter and spring snowpack.

• May to Early July: Bigger rapids, and the possibility of cooler weather. Wetsuits may be required.
• July: Good mix of warmer weather and bigger rapids. Inflatable kayaks may be limited.
• August: The best time for kids, inflatable kayaks and fishing.

Deposits confirm your reservation and final payment is due 60 days prior. All payments are non-refundable; we strongly recommend travel insurance. Read the full policy here.

Yes—we operate under a special use permit issued by the Salmon-Challis National Forest.

We typically access the river by a 2-hour bus ride or a ~15-minute flight (no extra cost to you). Details for your launch will be confirmed at the pre-trip meeting.

No, you won’t! At the pre-trip meeting the night before launch, meet your head guide and let them know about your luggage. They’ll assist you with it.

Cell phone service ends as you leave the town of Stanley on day one and resumes around 4:00 PM on the final day of the trip.

There’s no way to charge devices on the river, and NWRC doesn’t provide charging options for guests. If you’re planning to take photos or use your phone, we recommend bringing a fully charged external battery. You can find more helpful advice in our Technology on River Trips blog.

Yes—see page 4 of the Trip Details PDF for a complete packing list.

The trip spans 75-100 river miles through the Frank Church Wilderness Area, so conditions can vary! Check the forecast for:

• Stanley, Idaho: For the first few days of the trip.
• Salmon, Idaho: For the final days of the trip.

Recommendations for river shoes and camp footwear are in our guide to the Best Shoes & Sandals for River Trips.

See specs and dimensions on our Camping Gear page.

Absolutely. Note it on your registration so we don’t overpack duplicate gear.

No—we bring comfortable camp chairs for everyone.

We pride ourselves on providing high-quality PFDs for all guests and prefer you use ours. In some cases, we allow guests to bring their own. Click here for more details on requirements for using your PFD.

Absolutely. Our guides regularly accommodate a wide range of diets; just give us advance notice. Read more here: Accommodating Dietary Restrictions on Rafting Trips

Yes—with a valid Idaho fishing license. Use barbless hooks and practice catch-and-release. Ask your head guide if you hope to fish from a raft; availability is limited.

We use high-quality portable toilets (“groovers”). Learn how they work in Meet the Groover.

Yes—our guide’s practical tips are here: Menstrual Hygiene for River Trips. You can always reach out with questions.