One of the best ways to explore the northwest is to follow the rivers, just like countless explorers and natives have done in the past. The rivers are basically natural highways for watercraft and civilized areas can be found along the banks. Following a river uphill to the headwaters in the mountains always presents an opportunity to see majestic views and many adventures await along the way. Historical places will be encountered and cultural exchange will take place on tribal lands that will greatly enhance the western river touring experience. Of course there will be endless opportunities for rafting, canoeing and angling along the way, so just pick any river out west and plan a great escape from the modern world!
The Salmon River is one of the best waterway touring routes in the west and there are two paved roads that parallel this river all the way to the headwaters in central Idaho. The headwaters are located at Galena Summit in the Rocky Mountain Range, so as can be imagined plenty of snow melt water feeds the Salmon River. The Salmon River winds its way downhill through the Sawtooth Valley going west and it merges with the Snake River at the western Idaho Border. From the confluence, the Snake River eventually connects with the Columbia River, which heads directly to the Pacific Ocean. Pacific Chinook Salmon used to swim all the way to Idaho to spawn before the man made dams were installed. Fortunately these obstructions are under pressure to be removed and this will greatly enhance the angling prospects.
The Salmon River is one of the longest free flowing rivers in North America and it is definitely one of the top Idaho summer season destinations. There are many sections of this river to experience and the Lower Salmon River is one of the most popular stretches for whitewater rafting. The town of Riggins is located where the Lower Salmon River bends north toward the Snake River confluence and this is where several rafting excursion companies can be found. Some specialize in day trips, overnighters and sunset rafting events, which may even involve a big riverside cookout at the end of the day. Many rafting companies use support vehicles to setup a riverbank campout downstream in the many roadside BLM dispersed camping areas next to the river. These spots are also a good option for those who are doing a paved road tour.
The Salmon River most definitely is one of the top fly fishing destinations in the entire west and catering to angling excursions is a major economic driver in this region. The BLM manages the land along the Salmon River, which was once subject to rampant gold dredge mining. Those days are long gone and the BLM now protects the waterways. This agency also added a seemingly endless series of riverside recreation areas and public access points. A visitor will literally find one small recreation area after another along the Salmon River from the Snake River Confluence all the way up to the headwaters north of the Sawtooth Valley.
Each recreation area, fish & game launch site or public access point along the Salmon River has its own set of regulations that are based upon common sense. For campers the full scale recreation area campgrounds along the Salmon River are the equivalent of luxury resorts, because these destinations usually have well manicured lawns and spotless facilities. The developed campgrounds only costs a small fee and they are well suited for families or seniors. As can be seen in the video, there is a wide variety of little destinations to choose from along the Salmon River!
00:00 Title
00:15 Twin Bridges Access
01:49 Slate Creek Recreation Site
04:33 Lower Salmon River Dispersed Camping
06:33 Long Gulch Access
10:47 Salmon River Rec Areas (Deer Gulch, Cottonwood, Bayhorse)
17:29 Fin