challenging
5–7 days
Participants should have moderate to good fitness; able to handle all-day outdoor activity and some hiking over uneven terrain.
Experience whitewater rafting on Idaho’s wild Middle Fork and Main Salmon rivers with Rocky Mountain River Tours, where expert guides, gourmet meals, and pristine wilderness collide for unforgettable multi-day adventures.
Rocky Mountain River Tours (RMRT) offers some of the most immersive whitewater rafting trips in the rugged landscapes of central Idaho. Operating out of Stanley, a gateway to the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, RMRT specializes in multi-day float trips on the Middle Fork and Main Salmon rivers—two of the Northwest’s most coveted wild river corridors. This area is famous for its pristine, glacially carved canyons, towering granite cliffs, and crystal-clear waters that cut through vast wilderness where motorized access is restricted.
What sets RMRT apart is their deep experience and local knowledge, honed over many years navigating these challenging rapids. Their expert guides balance high-octane river action with an unmatched commitment to safety and education, making these trips suitable for families, seasoned rafters, and solo adventurers alike. Guests can expect a mix of paddle, row, and inflatable kayak craft on the river, providing opportunities to engage with the current at multiple skill levels.
Beyond the adrenaline, RMRT elevates the backcountry experience through carefully selected campsites that showcase the best of Idaho’s high desert and alpine ecosystems. Evenings bring gourmet meals cooked over Dutch ovens, accommodating dietary needs without compromising flavor. The food, guides, and camaraderie consistently receive high praise, with many guests returning year after year.
The Middle Fork corridor is rich with wildlife, including river otters, eagles, and occasionally elk along quiet river bends. The geology reveals exposed granite batholiths sculpted by glaciers, while the Frank Church Wilderness—established in 1980 as one of the largest contiguous wilderness areas in the U.S.—offers a raw, unplugged wilderness experience.
For travelers seeking a comprehensive escape into Idaho’s wild heart, Rocky Mountain River Tours provides not just a trip, but a dynamic immersion into one of America’s last great river adventures.
Bring a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated—river days under the sun can quickly dehydrate you.
Temperatures can vary widely from river to canyon rim; quick-drying layers keep you comfortable on and off the water.
Neoprene booties or sturdy sandals with straps protect your feet during river entry and rocky hikes around camps.
Pack out all trash and respect campsites to help preserve the wilderness character of these rivers.
The Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness was designated in 1980, protecting one of the nation's largest roadless areas with a rich history of Native American presence and early explorers.
RMRT practices Leave No Trace principles and works to minimize human impact to maintain the river’s pristine condition for future generations.
Keeps you comfortable when wet and dries fast between water activities.
summer specific
A secure lifejacket is required for safety on all river trips.
Protects your skin and eyes from intense mountain sun exposure.
summer specific
Keeps clothes, electronics, and essentials dry during river travel.