Middle Fork of the Salmon River
Click here for Information on Floating the Middle Fork of the Salmon River
Welcome to the remote and rugged mountains and rivers of Central Idaho! Each year, approximately 10,000 people float the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. 104 miles long and free flowing, the Middle Fork originates 20 miles northwest of Stanley, Idaho, at the confluence of Bear Valley and Marsh Creeks.
Designated as Wild and Scenic in 1968 (one of the original 8 rivers so named), the Middle Fork flows through many climates and land types: Alpine forest, high mountain desert, and finally the sheer rock “Impassable Canyon,” the third-deepest gorge in the United States.
The Middle Fork is administered under a permit system to provide a quality wilderness experience and protect the river corridor from excessive human impact. Part of that protection asks that you, the user, learn and practice Leave No Trace ethics. Due to its remote location, human presence in the area has remained limited, leaving it in the condition we see today. Only a few trails, landing strips, private ranches and Forest Service stations are evidence of human intrusion.
Now an internationally recognized whitewater/wilderness float trip, the Middle Fork is known for its scenic beauty and crystal-clear whitewater. Rafters and kayakers face many technical rapids (Class III-IV+) which offer boating excitement for both families and experienced adventurers.
Visitors who hike away from the river receive a taste of the wilderness experience and are sometimes lucky enough to catch a glimpse of how past inhabitants lived.
The Middle Fork is usually not floated in winter due to harsh conditions, low water levels and access difficulties. The river partially freezes over, with ice and snow bridges common on the river and its tributaries during this time.
In the spring, road access to the Middle Fork is usually limited by snowdrifts and trees across the road. Depending on snow level, spring weather and temperature, the road to Boundary Creek may not open until mid-June. High water levels are also of concern once the runoff begins.
As a backcountry wilderness river, the area remains dynamic, ever-changing, unpredictable, and free-flowing. It is impossible to guarantee specific river conditions at any time of the year, and weather can change extremely quickly.
Reservations
All river permit reservations will be made available at the Middle Fork of the Salmon River webpage on Recreation.gov. A permit is required to float the river.
General Information
Please call us at 208-481-2625 for additional information.
Only seven launch permits are allowed each day. To check for available launches, visit www.recreation.gov for your reservation. Required equipment must be carried; Leave No Trace camping practices.
Salmon River Season Passes are available from the North Fork and Middle Fork district offices. Idaho requires watercraft to have an aquatic invasive species sticker; visit Invasive Species Boat Stickers | Idaho Fish and Game to purchase.
Required equipment must be carried by boaters; a porta-potty, fire pan, fire blanket, ash container, strainer, shovel and bucket are requirements of the permit. Within the 1/4 mile wide river corridor, all waste (including human) and ashes must be packed out. Fires must be contained within a fire pan. This Wild & Scenic River is within the Frank Church - River of No Return Wilderness. No mechanized or motorized equipment allowed.
Reservations are $6.00 per launch date and are non-refundable. There is also a recreation fee of $4.00 per person per day to float the river.
Dogs are allowed on the Middle Fork, but they need to be under control at the guard stations, launches, and take-outs. Clean up after your dogs. Do not allow your pets to chase wildlife (including squirrels and chipmunks) or to dig holes. Also, keep them out of the poison ivy to prevent the oils from transferring to their coats and then onto you. For more information, please go to the Handle with Care! Kids and Dogs on the River brochure.
Please contact area chambers of commerce or the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association for information on river guiding services.
Getting There
Directions
Boundary Creek Launch Site: Turn off Highway 21 between mileposts 109 and 110. Travel dirt road to Bruce Meadows landing strip; turn north onto the Boundary Creek/Dagger Falls Road. Distance from Hwy 21: approx. 26 miles of dirt road. Closed seasonally by snow; this road is not plowed open.
Indian Creek Launch Site: No road access. Access by air at the Indian Creek Airstrip, a backcountry dirt landing strip.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Horse/Pack Animal Information
Horse/Pack animals are allowed at this site.
