20 Best Places to Visit in Idaho, According to Locals
"Designated as a federal “Wild and Scenic River,” this 104-mile free-flowing stretch—from the confluence of Marsh and Bear Valley Creeks to where it meets the Main Salmon River—is recommended to be experienced as “a multi-day guided or non-guided river trip,” with floaters encountering class three and four rapids amid striking canyon scenery." - Lydia Mansel
Lydia Mansel
Lydia Mansel is a writer with more than eight years of experience editing and writing for both brands and online publications—with a particular focus on travel, fashion, and lifestyle. She’s also the founder of the travel site justpacked.com.
Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"For a tougher challenge, tackle the Middle Fork of the Salmon: it features serious Class III and IV rapids but is also known for superb fly fishing, so make sure to cast a line when the water calms. A permit is required to float the Middle Fork of the Salmon, and a lottery takes place during the busy summer months." - Evie Carrick
Evie Carrick
Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.
Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
My first trip down the middle fork was an epic one. 7 nights, 4 nights of hot springs, great flow, lots of tequila and gourmet food. Was on a private trip with a couple of buddies and it was one of the best weeks I’ve ever had.
James E.
Google
After 20 years of running river trips in the US and internationally I fell in love with the Middle Fork of the Salmon River and decided to become an outfitter here so in 2007 purchased a river company called Middle Fork River Expeditions. Best decision I ever made. If you are looking for an outfitter to take you visit the Middle Fork Outfitters Association website and use the calendar function to find an outfitter that fits your travel dates. Most trips are 6 days and you need 8 days total door to door. It is considered the best river trip in the world for good reason as it has fun rapids, hot springs, incredible scenery and world class fishing as well. It is also known to have the best group of high quality river outfitters anywhere. We are all part of the Middle Fork Outfitters Association mentioned above.
Kyle W.
Google
Terrible float. Awful scenery. Clean air, turquoise water, bluebird skies.
Dangerous wildlife such as bears, moose, elk, wolverines. Do not attempt to draw this float trip!
Mary H.
Google
I am so happy we won the permit to raft the Middle Fork. 8 days with my pals in the wilderness. Great scenery and wildlife. The water was crystal clear and the hot springs are amazing. Getting lost in the wilderness is good for the soul. Highly recommend.
Michael
Google
Absolutely beautiful part of America. This was an unforgettable trip.
Andrew G.
Google
Took a 7-day trip rafting trip down the river... best week of my life. So beautiful and fun. Middle Fork Wilderness Outfitters made it really special... sorry to give them a plug here but they are incredible! Spend the day paddling, navigating rapids beeing with nature and fishing (if you like fish... I don't)... tents and dinner are set up and waiting at camp... paradise!
D W.
Google
Have been twice, both 6 day trips. Among the most beautiful places in America. Wildlife, star-filled skies, whitewater, hiking, history, nature, clean air, wilderness, solitude, peaceful. A fabulous getaway location that will refresh your Covid-stressed mind.
Travis B.
Google
They say this is the river of no return but we had to come back to society. Very disappointed. I feel like I was bamboozled.