



About
If you're seeking a river tour adventure that will appeal to anglers, thrill-seekers, and those wanting to relax, then check out Salmon Raft in McCall, Idaho.
This tour company offers an array of adventures, including a five-day Salmon River Canyon tour and a 3-5-day voyage down the Snake River through Hells Canyon. There are also one-day trips, fishing tours, and even a hunting/fishing trip. But we're getting ahead of ourselves. First, let's look at the "who" behind this successful outdoor outfitter.
What sets this company apart is that it's run by McCall locals, Chris and Lauren. This down-home, family-owned approach translates into a personalized, concierge-style tour. As a small touring company, they can offer a personalized, concierge-style of touring. Not only will you be chatting with them when you make a reservation, but they'll also shop for your food and join you on the trip. We'll dive into this more in our next section.
The various packages and river choices mean there's a raft tour for every budget and interest. And when it comes to customer service, Salmon Raft has set the bar high! There will be one guide for every 3-4 guests, ensuring everyone is well cared for and kept safe. Speaking of safety, the guides aren't fly-by-night weekend warriors, but have been trained in CPR, EMT, Wilderness First Responder, Wilderness EMT, and Swift Water Rescue Technician.
No matter which tour you choose, you're surrounded by stunning wilderness, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery. Families on these adventures relax and reconnect as cell phones and tablets are replaced with conversation, beachside games, and meals.
During your incredible adventure, you'll have the opportunity to speak with guides who know the area like the back of their hands. And if you're traveling with children, chances are they'll find the guides to be charming, fun, and engaging.
On your Gem State vacation, let Salmon Raft provide an unforgettable adventure that combines the beauty of the wilderness with thrilling challenges. In our next section, we'll explore how the tours are the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation, leaving you with a lifetime of memories.
Salmon Raft: Fun Facts & Cool Features
First up is the 4-5 day float on the Salmon River. One feature that makes this tour a memory-maker is that you raft through pristine, roadless wilderness, offering steep canyon walls and rolling valleys. Unplugging from the world can do wonders for one's soul, especially with spacious, white-sand beaches. Wildlife lovers will see Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, mule deer, black bears, river otters, and over 200 bird species.
Before you paddle downstream, another team sets out to get to the first camp before your arrival. Here, they set up tents, roll out comfy sleeping pads, and set up camp chairs. And when you're close, they start cooking dinner.
Speaking of food, you can forget about freeze-dried or canned/boxed meals. Instead, think juicy steaks with cheesy Dutch oven scalloped potatoes, or chicken street tacos with homemade pico de gallo, and you can't beat Chinook salmon fillets from the Salmon River! Toss in the home-crafted salads, fresh fruits, vegetables, and dessert from a Dutch oven, and you'll be dining in style!
Best of all, these tailor-made services are included with all the overnight trips, whether you explore Hells Canyon or the Salmon River.
Anglers should consider Steelhead fishing in September or Smallmouth bass fishing in late summer. These are generally one-day excursions, but could be tailored into a custom adventure; just contact Chris or Lauren to discuss details. If you're a hunter and also a fisherman, sign up for the Fall Chukar Hunting & Fishing Trips. Chukar are a bird hunter's dream. They're challenging to shoot and delicious to eat! Additionally, Chukar hunting season corresponds with bass, trout, and sturgeon fishing, making this the perfect "cast and blast" outdoor adventure.
While we've shed some light on these rafting getaways, we've only scratched the surface! Be sure to explore the website or call Lauren to discuss a custom tour suited for your family or group.
Salmon Raft caters to families, individuals, and groups seeking a personalized, intimate, outdoor adventure. With its attention to detail, dedication to environmental protection, and commitment to safety, rest assured your tour will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Cost
With so many tour options, we can't list all the pricing. Instead, here's a sample of what you can expect:
- Adult (Salmon River 2 days/1 night): $950
- Youth (Salmon River 2 days/1 night): $800
- Adult (Hells Canyon 3 days): $1,350
- Youth (Hells Canyon 3 days): $1,125
Local Tips
- Tipping guides 10-20% is common, with Venmo being the preferred payment method.
- If you're alergic to bees, remember your EpiPen!
- While cell service is non-existent, you can bring your cell phone to take pictures.
- Tours come with a portable toilet that's set up in a private section of camp.