The Main Salmon

Historically known as "the river of no return" this waterway has become a great destination for families seeking a multi-day river trip. Flowing through an immense wilderness area, the Main offers a true escape from modern distractions allowing you to focus your time on a memorable vacation for your family.

You'll travel almost 90 miles through the vast natural setting. The rapids are big and exciting, but won't scare off beginners. The scenery and wildlife will enchant anyone who loves the outdoors. Sandy beaches and hot springs provide relaxation on this adventure vacation.

Big Water, Big Rapids, Big Fun

The Main Salmon is called a pool-and-drop style of river. This means that the rapids are followed by large recovery pools making them perfect for beginners and children. This is a great river for trying out an inflatable kayak. Calm stretches and deep pools between the rapids make great swimming opportunities with comfortable temperatures in July and August.

Relaxing, Sandy Beaches

One highlight of a trip down the Main Salmon River is the big, sandy beaches where you'll make camp each night. Great for frisbee, volleyball or football, these campsites are perfect after a day of play on the water. Relax with your novel, journal about your experience and sleep in the soft sand as you watch the stars twinkle over head. The Main has riverside camping that is unmatched in Idaho.

Natural Wonders

The beauty of this canyon comes alive as your journey continues. Dense forest of fir, spruce, and pine provide a wonderful haven for unique wildlife. Bighorn sheep, elk and river otters all make this canyon their home, but they don't mind the human visitors. Soaring osprey or eagles call out from overhead. Fishing here is excellent for trout with the occasional steelhead or salmon.

The natural hot springs are a great addition to this trip. You'll stop along the way for a relaxing soak, which complements the adventurous rapids. Body and soul are rejuvenated by the warm water, gorgeous views and absence of modernity.

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