Salmon Raft

Last week our crew refreshed and practiced their swiftwater rescue skills during a three-day course taught by the best instructor in the field, . Nate founded Wilderness Rescue International, has authored books on the subject, and brings a well-rounded approach to his courses. Our guides discussed the importance of mental and emotional wellness, teamwork, and had plenty of time to work on technical skills. Courses like these are incredible opportunities for the guides to build trust and confidence in themselves and each other, as well as keep their rescue skills fresh as we continue on with our river season!

Multi-day rafting trips on the Salmon River and Hells Canyon, based in McCall, Idaho.

Happy Memorial Day weekend from one of our favorite viewpoints in Hells Canyon!

The start of river season always seems to arrive so fast, almost as if we didn’t expect it. We know it’s coming all winter long, as we thoughtfully check things off our pre-season to-do list. But that first pack day always catches us with a mix of feelings — excitement to be back on the river, nerves for early season higher water, stress as we scramble to finish last-minute tasks, a little bit of overwhelm as we regain our muscle memory. But we always get it done. And above all, the dominating feeling is gratitude to be able to do this year after year.

2026 will be our biggest season to date. The number of sold-out trips has exceeded our expectations, and we were thrilled to fill our most robust roster yet with the best guides out of over 100 qualified applicants. The men and women taking you down the river this season are nothing short of incredible human beings.

There is so much work that goes into preparing for the season, so the big exhale after sending out our first trip today feels extra satisfying. Thank you to our guests — past, present, and future — for joining us in our fourteenth river season! Float on… -Lauren

Multi-day rafting trips on the Salmon River and Hells Canyon, based in McCall, Idaho.

No comfort like a sun-soaked, sandy child asleep in mama’s lap. Happy Mother’s Day ☀️

The spring equinox this year features a forecasted 80° down on the banks of the Salmon River. We’d all be okay with a few more feet of snow in our high mountain snowpack… But I’d be lying if I said I was sad to spend the day on the beach. Spring has officially arrived! And summer is just around the corner.

Multi-day rafting trips on the Salmon River and Hells Canyon, based in McCall, Idaho.       

Merry Christmas Eve from our magical small town to you and yours ✨ Sending wishes of happiness, health, and joy for your holiday — and more snow to those who need it (us…)!

✨ Giveaway! ✨

‘Tis the season to celebrate! We are excited to re-open our online store, so we are giving away THREE items to three different people! That’s one prize each for three of you! Giveaway ends on Friday, December 5 at 5pm MST. Here’s how to enter:

1. Make sure you’re following us
2. Like this post AND tag a friend (or more!) in the comments
3. Bonus entry if you send this post to a friend

Winners will be announced and contacted on Friday evening by 6pm MST.

If we’ve still got your attention… Our online store is OPEN! And we’re adding to the magic by extending 20% off all orders through December 10. Hoodies, hats, shirts, mugs, stickers, sun shirts — holiday gifts galore. Use code HOLIDAYS25 at checkout. Store link in bio.

Thank you for supporting our family and helping us get excited to be launching into winter!

All filled up! Hope everyone had a Thanksgiving full of family, friends, and food. Ours also came (and continues to be) filled with the sounds of grandpa’s bugle. Anyone else have pie for breakfast? ♥️🍽️

Fall in Salmon River country is a chance to hike up into drainages we’ve admired from river level and take in the vastness of the canyon. Added bonus? Fill our freezer with meat to have stews, sausage, and burgers through the winter, and dehydrate the rest into jerky — best pocket snack for skiing. What’s your favorite way to enjoy venison?

🔔 Applications for summer ’26 employment are officially open! Think you’d be a great fit? Or know someone? Check the employment link in our bio to learn more or send this post to a friend.

Aside from the obvious perk of spending your summer days on the river, working at Salmon Raft also means you are part of a hardworking team of men and women who quickly become family. We work hard and play hard — and craft perfectly orchestrated and unforgettable river trips for our guests. Come join us!