SALMON, IDAHO
Salmon River family/couples
This isn’t your average family trip—and that’s the point.
Our Salmon River Retreat is for families (and couples) craving something real: heart-pumping adventure, screen-free time together, and memories built on shared experience—not busy schedules. Designed for ages 8 to 80, it’s an experience that brings all generations together. With a mix of raft sizes and double kayaks, everyone finds their rhythm on the river.
The Main Salmon—“The River of No Return”—is one of the most exclusive wilderness trips in the world. Flowing through the 2.4-million-acre Frank Church Wilderness, it offers granite canyons, ancient petroglyphs, white sand beaches, and warm, undammed water perfect for both rapids and calm stretches. No roads. No cell service. Just wild, stunning beauty.
Beyond hot springs, waterfalls, and starlit nights, this trip gives you something most vacations can’t: a sense of renewal and real connection. Trips like this are rare—not just because of the remote setting and limited access, but because of the heart behind it. We’ve partnered with Pro Rafting Tours, a family-run company with generations of experience and a crew that brings safety, warmth, and hospitality from day one.
We’ve kept our pricing competitive with any outfitter on the river—what truly sets us apart is what comes after the rafting. Our evening Skill Drops are made for this setting: casual, fun, and designed to meet the moment. No lectures, no pressure—just meaningful conversations and engaging activities that help families strengthen connection, and give couples space to slow down and rediscover what matters most. It’s a chance to laugh, reflect, and take home more than just a tan and some great stories. This trip is rare. It’s stunning. And it’s the kind of experience you’ll still be talking about years from now.
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
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Upscale river camping with high-quality tents, plush bedding, private restrooms, and thoughtful extras
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3-course meals with fresh local produce and homemade snacks served on the river and at camp
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Choice of watercraft: 1- or 2-person inflatable kayaks, paddle rafts, or family oar rigs piloted by skilled guides
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A unforgettable 5-day guided adventure, featuring 4 Skill Drops (designed for both families and couples) — focused on managing anxiety, building real-life resilience, and strengthening connection in the moments that matter most
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Guided yoga, off-the-beaten-path hikes, and fun riverside games
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Shuttle Service from Salmon, ID to boat launch. Return shuttle from river's edge to McCall, ID (car shuttle available for fee).
WHAT THIS IS (AND WHAT IT ISN'T)
We want you to know what you're signing up for — and just as importantly, what you're not.
WHAT THIS IS:
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A Whitewater Adventure That Strengthens and Connects
This is more than just a family vacation. It’s a guided journey down Idaho’s legendary Salmon River, where you'll navigate rapids, float through peaceful canyons, and face just the right amount of challenge together. It's the kind of adventure that strengthens confidence, connection, and real-life resilience — without ever feeling like a classroom.
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A New Way to Connect as a Family
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Life at home can be busy and noisy. Out here, there’s space — space to talk, laugh, paddle, and notice each other again. With no screens, no rush, and no outside noise, meaningful connection comes naturally. Whether you're in a raft together, swimming in an eddy, or watching the stars by the fire, you’ll find yourself connecting in new and lasting ways.
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Tools You Can Actually Use
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Between all the adventure, we’ll offer a few light and engaging moments (Skill Drops) to introduce practical tools for handling stress, improving communication, and staying grounded when life gets hard. These aren't therapy sessions — just simple, real-world skills you can take home and actually use as a family.
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A Family Therapy Session in Disguise
While we’ll integrate meaningful, real-life tools to help strengthen your family’s bond, this is not a heavy, therapy-based retreat. You won’t spend your time sitting in a circle talking about your feelings; you’ll be adventuring, connecting, and experiencing things as a family. -
A Rigid, Structured, “No Fun” Experience
This retreat isn’t about rigid schedules or making you follow a strict path. Most of the adventure is self-paced, so you can take things at your own speed, whether you’re hiking, or enjoying your downtime at the beach together. It’s about balance — challenging yourselves, but also enjoying the experience. -
A ‘Fix Your Family’ Retreat
This is not about fixing problems or “repairing” anything. It’s about enhancing your connection, learning helpful skills, and finding new ways to navigate challenges together as a family. This retreat is about growth and discovery, not turning everything upside down. -
Just Another Vacation
Sure, it’s a trip, but it’s also much more. This isn’t just a break from routine — it’s an opportunity to build stronger bonds and resilience, gain new tools for managing life’s challenges, and create memories that go beyond your typical family vacation.
WHAT THIS ISN'T:
DAY 3 JUNE 24, 2026
Meet at 7:30 AM (MST) in front of the Stagecoach Inn for your shuttle to the river launch. Choose your watercraft—oar boat, paddle raft, or inflatable kayak—and start the day with exciting yet manageable rapids like Killum, Rainier, and Devil’s Tooth. We’ll stop at the stunning Barth Hot Springs, one of the best natural pools along the river. Between rapids and camp, there’s plenty of time to soak in the beauty of this remote wilderness. In the mid-to-late afternoon, we get off the river for the day. Enjoy snacks while settling into camp—guests set up their own tents while our guides take care of everything else. Dinner is a gourmet riverside experience, thoughtfully prepared with special touches to make it memorable. After the meal, the evening is yours to relax, join casual activities, explore, or attend a 45-minute riverside yoga stretch class led by a licensed instructor. We’ll close the day with a laid-back fireside Skill Drop—an engaging and meaningful way to reflect, laugh, and come together under the stars.
Begin your day with an optional 30-minute sunrise yoga class, designed to gently wake up the body and get you river-ready. After a hearty breakfast, we continue our journey deeper into the wilderness. The river mellows in places, offering stretches of calm water perfect for soaking in the scenery—or even hopping in for a swim. Early in the day, we’ll take a short side-excursion to explore the Legend Creek Pictographs, a hidden gem tucked into the cliffs. Created by the Sheepeater Indians, these ancient paintings are protected in a natural rock shelter and offer a rare glimpse into the stories and spirit of this canyon’s original inhabitants. As we reach camp in the afternoon, you’ll find the same rhythm as the day before. Grab a snack, take a dip, or join a spirited game of beach volleyball—there’s no shortage of ways to unwind. Dinner is served riverside once again, fresh, delicious, and satisfying after a day on the water. Later, if your body’s calling for another good stretch, there’s an optional evening yoga class. We’ll close out the evening with another relaxed fireside Skill Drop—a chance to come together, laugh, reflect, and enjoy a moment of connection beneath the stars.
The day begins with another optional sunrise yoga class, followed by a warm breakfast by the river. As we travel farther into the canyon, the wilderness gets even more remote, and the sense of adventure grows. You’ll experience a mix of peaceful floating and lively rapids, all surrounded by towering granite walls, dense forests, and pristine beaches.
In the afternoon, we pull into a new camp. There’s time to relax, snack, play, and settle in before another unforgettable dinner prepared by our crew. The evening is yours—whether you’re craving connection, adventure, stillness, or a little movement with beach and in-water volleyball, lawn darts, or bocce ball. Optional yoga is available again, followed by another fireside Skill Drop that helps bring the day full circle with light-hearted reflection and meaningful conversation.
As we head deeper into the canyon, the river brings new thrills and unforgettable sights. Today’s stretch features a mile-deep, forested gorge and exciting rapids like Salmon Falls, Big Mallard, and Elk Horn—each one offering just the right mix of adrenaline and fun. Off the water, we’ll explore two fascinating landmarks: the historic Campbell’s Ferry Ghost Town and the one-of-a-kind Buckskin Bill’s Compound, tucked into the riverbank and full of stories from the past. As we float lower in the canyon, the landscape shifts—towering granite cliffs rise above us, and thick forests open to wide sandy beaches. By afternoon, we’ll pull into camp. Grab a snack, cool off in the river, or jump into one last round of beach volleyball or bocce ball. Dinner is served riverside—simple, fresh, and satisfying. The evening is wide open: stretch out with optional yoga, play a few more games, or just unwind in the quiet. Our evening fireside Skill Drop brings the group together one last time for laughter, reflection, and a sense of shared accomplishment under the stars.
Our final morning on the river brings two of the trip’s most exciting rapids—Chittam and Vinegar Creek. By now, the challenge feels familiar, even welcome, as you take them on with confidence. We’ll stop for one last riverside lunch, soaking in the final views of this remote and beautiful canyon. It’s a quiet moment to enjoy the scenery, the company, and how far you’ve come. Afterward, we’ll make our way to the resort town of McCall, Idaho—tired, maybe, but also grounded and full of the kind of memories that last a lifetime.
DAY 5 JUNE 26, 2026
DAY 2 JULY 25, 2026
ITINERARY:
DAY 1 JULY 24, 2026
DAY 4 JUNE 25, 2026
SKILL DROPS:
Speak My Language (River Edition)
Because every family has its own way of showing love—and sometimes, we miss the message. This playful activity helps you decode the ways your kids, partner, and even you give and receive love, so everyone feels seen and understood.
Expect laughs, lightbulb moments, and simple takeaways that can make home feel a little more connected.
Everyday gestures → lasting connection.
Built to Last
Because the river won’t always be calm.
This fireside-style talk explores what strong families do differently when life gets hard—and how everyday moments of connection, humor, and meaning prepare us for the rapids.
Stories, insight, and a few unexpected laughs.
Intentional living → real resilience.
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You Think You Know Me? (River Edition)
How well do you really know your family? This game-style activity is part competition, part comedy, and part connection. You’ll answer questions about each other, make some wild guesses, and probably discover something surprising—like who’s secretly the most dramatic or who would totally survive alone on an island.
Laughter → better understanding.
"Highlight Reel"
Theme: Strength spotting + positive storytelling
Because your family has already done hard things.
In this reflective + creative drop, families build their “highlight reel” — recalling times they showed up for each other, overcame something together, or made magic out of mess. Bonus: teens get to nominate parents for MVP moments.
Shared memories → deeper pride.
FAQs:
July 24 - 28th , 2026
From $1,850 per person
**Deposit: $250 per person due at booking
(fully refundable until January 1, 2025)
Duration
4-nights, 5-days
Dates
July 24 - 28th, 2026
Accommodation
Skill Drops
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Speak My Language (River Edition)
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Built To Last
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You Think You Know Me? (River Edition)
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Highlight Reel
Difficulty
Minimum Age Requirement
8+ years
Where is the Salmon River? The Salmon River—often called “The River of No Return”—flows through the heart of central Idaho. Our retreat takes place on the Main Salmon section, winding through the Frank Church Wilderness, one of the most remote and scenic areas in the lower 48 states. It’s known for its clear water, sandy beaches, hot springs, and incredible canyon views. The retreat begins in Salmon, Idaho, where we launch onto the river, and ends in the resort town of McCall, Idaho, after five unforgettable days on the water.
Why did you choose to partner with Pro Rafting Tours for the Salmon River retreat? We’ve partnered with Pro Rafting Tours because when it comes to running trips on the legendary Main Salmon River, experience, safety, and integrity matter. The Salmon River is one of the most exclusive and awe-inspiring wilderness river trips in the world. Securing a permit to launch here isn’t easy. With less than 1% of lottery applicants securing launch dates each year, trips on this section of the Salmon River are hard to come by. That’s why teaming up with a trusted, reputable outfitter like Pro Rafting Tours is essential. Pro Rafting Tours holds one of only a handful of special use permits granted each year for this stretch of river. Their team of seasoned guides understands the terrain, the rapids, and the rhythms of this powerful place—and most importantly, they share our core value: getting everyone down the river safely. This partnership allows us to offer something truly rare: access to an 84-mile, roadless journey through the heart of Idaho’s Frank Church Wilderness. It’s the longest undammed river in the Lower 48, deeper than the Grand Canyon in parts, and surrounded by wild beauty that can only be reached by river. With white-sand beaches, natural hot springs, and clear, swimmable water, it’s the kind of bucket-list trip that truly lives up to the hype. We also know our lane—we’re not outfitters or whitewater experts. Our primary role is to guide the therapeutic and connection-focused side of the retreat, while Pro Rafting Tours ensures every aspect of river safety, navigation, and logistics runs smoothly. Together, we create a once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends adventure with meaning, and safety with spontaneity. It’s not just about conquering rapids—it’s about coming together in one of the most stunning, untouched places in the world.
Do I need rafting experience to go on a multi-day rafting retreat? No experience is needed! Pro Rafting Tours’ professional guides will be with you every step of the way, expertly navigating oar rigs and helping you feel comfortable on the water. If you’d like a more hands-on adventure, inflatable tandem kayaks are also available. They’re safe, stable, and easy to learn with just a few minutes of basic paddle instruction. Whether you’re relaxing in the raft or paddling through rapids, we’ve got you covered.
Are there any physical requirements for this trip? Yes, for your safety and enjoyment, guests should meet the following physical requirements: Wear a Type V, US Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device that fully zips and locks at the waist, chest, and shoulders. Be able to board and get out of an inflatable raft or kayak up to 12 times per day. Be able to sit and balance while aboard a bouncing watercraft. Be able to hold onto and brace yourself on the watercraft. Be able to balance while stepping on unseen, slippery, uneven underwater objects such as rocks and branches. Be able to tread water while wearing a personal flotation device in swift currents and choppy water. Be able to lift yourself (with assistance) back onto a boat and help other guests back into boats if needed. Be able to follow your guides’ verbal and gesture instructions and commands. Be able to wear a safety helmet, if required.
Do I need to know how to swim? You don’t need to be an experienced swimmer to join our Salmon River retreat. All guests are required to wear Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices (PFDs), which are designed to keep you safely afloat—face up—even if you fall in. Before every trip, professional guides lead a thorough safety briefing, ensure your PFD fits properly, and teach you how to position yourself safely if you end up in the water. Your safety and confidence on the river are our top priorities.
What are my rafting options on the Main Salmon? On the Main Salmon River, you’ll have a few exciting options for how you experience the water—whether you want to paddle on your own, work as a team, or sit back and enjoy the ride: Oar Rigs – These are 16–18 foot rafts rowed by our experienced guides. Each one comfortably seats 3–6 guests and is “self-bailing,” meaning any water that gets in quickly drains out. It’s a great way to relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy the river while your guide handles the navigation. Inflatable Kayaks – Sometimes called “duckies,” these two-person kayaks give you the thrill of navigating the river under your own power. They’re stable, fun, and great for adventurous guests. No experience? No problem. Our guides will show you the basics and help you feel confident in no time. Paddle Rafts – These 16-foot rafts carry a crew of 6–8 people, each with a paddle in hand, working together to navigate the rapids under the guidance of a professional guide. It’s a great team experience and tons of fun, especially if you enjoy being right in the action. Guests are welcome to switch it up and try different boats throughout the trip—it’s all part of the adventure!
What are the rapids like in late July? In late July, the Main Salmon River offers a fantastic mix of excitement and fun, with rapids ranging from Class II to Class IV. By this time of summer, the water levels have dropped from spring’s peak flows, creating conditions that are both adventurous and approachable—perfect for first-time rafters, families, and thrill-seekers alike. What do Class II–IV rapids mean? Rapids are rated on a scale from Class I (easy) to Class VI (extreme and unrunnable): Class II: Gentle, splashy, and easy to navigate—great for beginners. Class III: A step up in excitement, with bigger waves and more movement, but still very manageable with guidance. Class IV: These are fast-moving and powerful rapids that bring a real sense of adventure. They may have bigger waves, drops, or tighter turns, but with our professional guides leading the way, they’re thrilling, safe, and often a highlight of the trip. Throughout the journey, there’s a great balance of action and calm stretches—giving you time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and even take a swim. Whether you’re paddling through the waves or riding in a guide-powered raft, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
Throughout the retreat, we’ll sprinkle in a few short activities and conversations we call Skill Drops. Each one is different — sometimes it’s a quick trail chat, other times it’s a group game on the beach — but they’re all designed to be simple, engaging, actually useful, and fun!
While every Skill Drop brings something unique, we intentionally thread in tools for navigating anxiety, managing stress, and pushing through challenge and tough moments. Why? Because this trail naturally brings those feelings up — and so does real life, especially for teens. We’ve found that learning these skills in the middle of an adventure, rather than in a classroom or lecture, makes them stick in a way that really works. And because we know the fastest way to lose a teen (or adult) is to make something feel like therapy on vacation, we’re careful to keep it light, natural, and fun — adding to the adventure, not taking away from it.
What will camping be like? Camping on the Salmon River is one of the highlights of the trip—peaceful, scenic, and surprisingly comfortable, whether you're a seasoned camper or it's your first time sleeping under the stars. We keep it simple so you can relax and enjoy the experience. You’ll only need to bring your personal items in a soft-sided duffle bag—we’ll take care of the rest: Comfortable cots and luxury sleeping pads (3-inch self-inflating) make sleeping outdoors easy—even for first-timers. Roomy tents are provided and simple to set up, or you can do what many guests love: sleep under the open sky and wake up to sunrise over the canyon walls. We provide dry bags (55-liter for personal gear and a smaller 10-liter for daytime essentials) to keep your belongings clean and dry. Camp chairs and vinyl ground cloths make relaxing and organizing your gear easy and comfortable. You’ll be amazed at how enjoyable and low-maintenance camping can be when everything is taken care of—and how refreshing it feels to sleep surrounded by nature, far from the noise of everyday life.
How do we use the bathroom on the river? While we’re on the river, we use a portable toilet system that is set up each day in camp in a private, secluded location. It’s available from the time we arrive in camp until we leave the next morning. A hand-washing station is always set up nearby to keep things clean and hygienic. At the beginning of the trip, we'll walk you through how everything works so you know exactly what to expect.
What will the weather be like? July is one of the best months to be on the Main Salmon River. You can expect warm, sunny days and cool, comfortable nights—perfect for rafting and camping. Average daytime highs are around 87°F Evening temperatures typically dip to the low 50s Rain is rare, with just about 1 inch of precipitation on average for the month. That said, weather in the wilderness can always be unpredictable. We recommend packing layers and light rain gear just in case a storm rolls through. Your packing list will help you come prepared for whatever nature brings.
What will a typical day on the river look like? A typical day on the river blends time on the water with plenty of opportunities to explore, relax, and enjoy the beauty around you. You'll raft for a few hours at a time, with stops along the way for scenic side-canyon hikes, bathroom breaks, swimming, and a riverside lunch prepared by your guides. As you float, you’ll have time to visit with your family and fellow travelers, enjoy the scenery, and hear stories about the river’s history and geology from your guides. In the late afternoon, you'll arrive at camp. Before dinner, there’s time to play games, relax, or participate in low-key camp activities. While you unwind, your guides will prepare a fresh, hearty dinner—think grilled chicken, steak, pasta, fajitas, or even fresh-caught fish. Each evening also includes a casual fireside Skill Drop—a short, fun, and engaging experience where we introduce tools to support personal growth, resilience, and connection. The next morning, you’ll wake to a delicious breakfast, pack up your gear, and head out for another unforgettable day on the river.
Can I fish on the river? Yes! Fishing is a popular activity on the Salmon River, and there are plenty of opportunities to cast a line during your trip. Rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, smallmouth bass, and even steelhead (in certain seasons) can be found in these waters. Both fly fishing and spin fishing are allowed, but Idaho regulations require barbless hooks (or hooks with the barbs bent down), and some stretches of river may be catch-and-release only. If you’d like to fish, you’ll need to purchase an Idaho fishing license in advance. Online: idfg.idaho.gov/licenses By phone: 1-800-554-8685 Or sometimes in person the day before your trip We recommend bringing a collapsible fishing rod or a hard-sided rod case for easier travel. Let us know if you plan to fish—we’re happy to help you prepare!
What are Skill Drops? Skill Drops are short, meaningful conversations woven into each retreat — quick hits of insight you can actually use. They're not lectures or therapy sessions, just down-to-earth tools that help you stay connected and enjoy the moment. Each set of Skill Drops is handpicked for the retreat — based on the setting, the adventure, and the kinds of real-life situations that tend to show up along the way. They’re tailored, relevant, and designed to stick with you long after the trip ends.
Will we have family time, or is everything structured? While time on the river follows a general structure—including paddling, breaks, meals, and some planned activities—there’s still plenty of space to connect and enjoy time together throughout the day. If you choose to ride in the same raft or paddle together in a family-style boat, you’ll have hours to talk, laugh, and experience the adventure side by side. There are also opportunities to swim, relax, and explore together during lunch stops and at camp each evening. Time at camp and during breaks is yours to spend however you like—whether it’s relaxing by the river, playing games, exploring nearby trails, or simply soaking in the stunning scenery together. Our evening fireside Skill Drops add a light, meaningful layer to the experience without feeling overly scheduled. The goal is to create a flow that supports both adventure and connection.
What is the minimum age for this trip? The minimum age for this trip is 8 years old and above. This is partly because the water levels in July still tend to be higher and more challenging compared to later in the season when flows usually decrease. Higher water levels mean stronger currents and more active rapids, so participants need the physical ability and coordination to safely navigate these conditions. We want everyone to have a fun and safe experience on the river. If you have questions about whether this trip is a good fit for your child, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help!
What if my kid complains or struggles? It’s totally normal! In fact, they probably will — and maybe even cry (some of ours did). But that’s part of the process. Challenging experiences help us grow, and learning to push through tough moments is one of the best ways to build resilience as a family. Remember, this isn’t about being perfect. It’s about embracing the ups and downs of the adventure. We feel confident that your family will look back on any "hard parts" — whether emotional or physical — and laugh about them for years to come. These are the kinds of experiences that create lasting memories, and everyone comes out stronger for it.
Who are our guides? With 35 years of combined clinical experience and a lifetime of adventuring between us--we're your guides. We've blended our passion for empowering people with our love for the outdoors. Our role is simple — we’re here to support your adventure, not micromanage it. We’ll be on the trail with you, offering guidance when it’s needed and giving you space when it’s not. Think of us as part trail guide, part campfire crew — here to help you navigate the journey, handle any hiccups, and make the experience even more meaningful (and fun). We've led countless people along this trail — and no two journeys are ever the same. Each family brings their own dynamic, energy, and story, which is what makes every trip so special. Now, we're excited to share this unforgettable experience with your family. Come join us for an adventure of a lifetime!
THINGS TO KNOW:
Fees, Payment, & Cancellation Policy Family Retreat Pricing: We keep things simple. The cost for this 5-day guided river retreat is $1,850 per child and $2,150 per adult (18+). This includes all meals, gear, guided rafting, upscale camping accommodations, and meaningful Skill Drops designed to enhance your family’s experience. Deposit: A $250 per person deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your spot. Fully refundable until January 1, 2025 Total Trip Cost: Starting at $1,850 per person Final Balance Due: Remaining balance must be paid on or before May 1, 2026 Refund Policy: Deposit: Non-refundable after January 1, 2025. Remaining Balance: Full refund of the remaining balance if canceled 60 days or more before the retreat. 50% refund of the remaining balance if canceled 30-59 days before the retreat. Non-refundable if canceled 29 days or less before the retreat. Travel Insurance: We strongly encourage participants to purchase travel insurance to protect against unexpected circumstances. If you would like assistance or options for travel insurance providers, please feel free to contact us.
Pre-Trip Travel Information Families are responsible for arranging their own travel and hotel accommodations the night before launch. Most guests drive to Salmon, Idaho, but you can also fly into nearby airports such as Missoula, MT, Idaho Falls, ID, or Boise, ID, then rent a car for the scenic drive to Salmon. You’ll leave your car parked in Salmon, Idaho for the duration of the trip. Secure parking is available at or near the Stagecoach Inn. We’ll begin with a mandatory orientation meeting on July 23, 2026 at 7:30 PM (MST), held at: The Stagecoach Inn 202 Hwy 93 N Salmon, ID 83467 This brief meeting will cover important trip details, introduce your guides, and help your family feel fully prepared for the adventure ahead. The next morning, July 24th, we’ll gather again at 7:30 AM (MST) in front of the Stagecoach Inn to begin the shuttle ride to the river. Let us know if you’d like help with travel suggestions or hotel recommendations—we’re happy to point you in the right direction.
Post-Trip Travel Information On the final day of your Main Salmon rafting adventure, you’ll travel by bus to McCall, Idaho, where the trip officially ends. For your convenience, your car can be shuttled from Salmon to McCall for an additional fee, so it’s waiting for you when you arrive. We highly recommend arranging this in advance with us to simplify your return plans. Some families choose to spend the night in McCall, enjoying its charming mountain town atmosphere before heading home. Others opt to hit the road the same day. Whatever you choose is entirely up to you—just be sure to plan ahead and make any necessary accommodations. If you’d like help with car shuttle logistics or lodging suggestions in McCall, feel free to reach out. We're happy to help make your post-trip transition smooth and stress-free.
Car Shuttle Details We highly recommend taking advantage of the car shuttle service, so your vehicle will be waiting for you at the end of your river adventure. After a week on the water, it’s a huge benefit to simply load up and go—no waiting, no logistics to figure out. The cost is approximately $600 per vehicle to have your car professionally shuttled from Corn Creek (launch site) to Carey Creek (take-out). This is the longest continuous river shuttle in the country, covering nearly 300 miles and taking about 10 hours one way. For smaller families or couples, we can help coordinate carpooling with other participants to split the cost, making this convenient option more affordable. Many families consider the shuttle well worth the cost for the added ease and flexibility at the end of the trip. If you’d like to arrange a shuttle or carpool, just let us know—we’ll take care of the details.
Packing List & Travel Tips Once you’ve booked your trip, we’ll send you a detailed packing list to help you prepare. For now, here’s a general idea of what to bring: PERSONAL ITEMS Personal hygiene products, toothbrush & toothpaste Plenty of sunscreen & lip balm LavaLava/Sarong coverup (long cloth useful for sun cover, light towel, changing clothes under cover) After-sun moisturizing lotion Biodegradable soap (Ivory) — ALL soaps must be used in a designated spot away from the river Sport water bottle with clip or carabiner Small towel and wash cloth Small pack of tissues Small headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries Insect repellant (small container) Sunglasses with safety strap Camera – waterproof digital camera with extra batteries and memory. Phones as camera in waterproof cases/sleeves. Charging brick for phones recommended (cell service unavailable) Medication if needed (cool storage available) Small travel pillow Major credit card in case of evacuation Cash for gratuities (guides appreciate 10-15% of trip cost, usually given to trip leader last night) CLOTHING ITEMS 2 pairs of lightweight pants/shorts, shirts & underwear for camp 2 pairs of socks (for sunburn or foot injury protection) Two-piece rain suit (quality rain gear protects against cold water on early rapids; no ponchos please) 2–3 swimsuits (2-piece swimsuit with quick-drying shorts or sports bra and shorts recommended for women) 2–3 quick-drying shirts (long sleeved sun hoodies offer breezy, effective sun protection) 1 pair quick-drying pants (optional, for sun protection) Lightweight fleece top Sturdy water sandals or water shoes (consider backup pair in case of damage) Comfortable footwear for camp (flip flops or lightweight shoes optional) Hat for sun protection with string or hat clip OPTIONAL PERSONAL ITEMS 2 small carabiners for clipping personal items to ropes Plastic bag for dirty or wet clothing A few clothespins to secure wet clothing while drying Personal bee sting kit (if allergic) Fishing gear and Idaho license (gear must be in protective case and disassembled during travel) Bandana or Buff Disposable moist towelettes