Traveling to Salmon, Idaho

Pre-Trip Meeting

Prepping For Adventure

For trips meeting in Salmon, Idaho, our pre-trip orientation is held at the Stagecoach Inn at 7:30 the evening before departure. We meet guests to review plans for the next morning, answer questions, demonstrate how to pack our waterproof bags, and introduce the group. Make sure to download our whitewater rafting packing list below.

Packing List

Getting to Salmon, Idaho

Driving

When feasible, driving to Salmon is our recommended option. At the end of your river trip, we provide ground transportation back to Salmon, eliminating the need for a shuttle. Your vehicle can be parked in the long-term parking lot at the Stagecoach Inn for the days that you are on the river. The hotel will provide a parking permit and hold your car keys for safe-keeping.

Flying

Guests who choose to utilize the air shuttle will purchase a round-trip ticket from Boise. The last on-river day ends with ample time to arrive at the Salmon Airport for the same-day return flight to Boise that afternoon. Idaho River Journeys provides transportation to the Salmon airport. The flight from Salmon to Boise takes about 90 minutes. As delays can occur due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, we strongly suggest staying the night in Boise and scheduling your main departure flight for the next day.

Arrival at any airport other than Boise will require renting a car. The closest major airports to Salmon, Idaho are located in Missoula, MT (MSO, 3-hour drive), Idaho Falls, ID (IDA, 2.5-hour drive), and Boise, ID (BOI, 5-hour drive). For larger groups, renting a car and leaving it in Salmon is an economical option. Even though the vehicle isn’t being utilized while you are on the river, a weekly car rental is generally less expensive than an air charter. Enterprise Rent-A-Car offers our guests special weekly rates. Call or email us for details. There are no car rental drop-off facilities in Salmon.

Lodging and Food in Salmon, Idaho

Salmon Lodging

We recommend staying at our meeting place, the Stagecoach Inn. The riverside hotel provides clean, comfortable amenities within walking distance of several restaurants, shops, and activities. You can book your room on their website or by calling 208-756-2919. Due to high bookings, we recommend reserving your room as early as possible. If you are spending the night in Salmon at the end of your trip, don’t forget to make reservations for that evening as well.

Book online

Salmon Restaurants

  • Odd Fellows’ Bakery: Opening at 7 AM, Odd Fellows’ Bakery is a delightful spot, right on Main Street, renowned for its brick-oven bread. In addition to their fresh-baked bread, they offer an array of breakfast sandwiches, house made croissants, bagels, and expertly roasted coffee.
  • Highlander Brewery: With a fantastic atmosphere and spacious dining, Highlander Brewery boasts a diverse selection of beers, from hoppy IPAs to seasonal and lighter brews. Their quick service complements the tasty, fresh salads and flavorsome pizza
  • Junkyard Bistro: This bistro is celebrated for its delicious sandwiches, nutritious soups, salads, and comforting homestyle cooking. Junkyard Bistro provides a classic American cuisine menu for both lunch and dinner.
  • The Pork Peddler: Known for its outstanding food and inviting atmosphere, The Pork Peddler is an ideal spot to unwind with savory wings or a pulled pork sandwich, accompanied by a fresh IPA.
  • Shady Nook: A top-notch steakhouse with excellent bar food, Shady Nook is one of the only spots in town to offer dinner with a full bar. The cozy dining room can seat small or large parties, while the bar area and patio offer a more casual vibe to grab a quick bite. All options offer the full menu.
  • Last Chance Pizza: Last Chance offers a mouth-watering selection of fresh-baked pizza, along with sandwiches, specials, and a salad bar. Their large patio is great for larger groups.
  • Rise and Shine: More than just a coffee stand, Rise and Shine serves up a variety of breakfast delights, including a signature breakfast burrito, alongside a wide array of coffee drinks.

A Day in Salmon, Idaho

If you are looking for a more detailed itinerary please use our contact form to request our Salmon Travel Guide. We live in Salmon and know the area well!

Morning

Kick off your day in Salmon with a delicious breakfast at Odd Fellows’ Bakery. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing stroll through the town and visit Veterans Park to watch kayakers, boaters, and surfers at the newly-opened Salmon Whitewater Park. Use the footbridge to continue your walk on to Island Park, where users enjoy a walking path, river access, dog park, and skate park.

As you prepare for your Middle Fork Trip, be sure to stop by Jaxonbilt Hat Company and the adjacent Salmon River Fly Box. At Jaxonbilt, design a custom river hat with the guidance of experienced hat makers. The Salmon River Fly Box offers a variety of fishing and outdoor equipment and accessories, including invaluable knowledge of the surrounding fishing.

Afternoon

Salmon offers diverse activities for visitors. History buffs should explore the Lemhi County Historical Museum and the nearby Sacajawea Center, which honors the legacy of Sacajawea and the Lemhi Shoshone. The Center’s walking trails provide beautiful views of the Beaverhead Mountains and are dotted with cultural and historical artifacts.

Mountain biking enthusiasts can check out our locally owned full-service bike shop, The Hub of Salmon or explore the thrilling Discovery Hill trail system. Discovery Hill offers trails for bikers, hikers, and trail runners.

Evening

Sweet Water Hollow is a local favorite for a summer evening. This family friendly venue hosts concerts and events with dancing, snacks, and drinks, right on the banks of the river. Check their events calendar and plan accordingly!

For a drink in a lively setting, stroll down Main Street and pop in to the local breweries and watering holes. Keep an ear out for live music! If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to stop by Zoom Arcade or Pins & Tips Bowling Alley.