Explore the sculpted peaks of the craggy Lemhis and raft the Main Salmon River, an exceptional blend of whitewater, wildlife, and American frontier history. Your 28-day expedition starts with an 18-day wilderness hiking section.
At NOLS, you’ll learn to recognize the strengths of every member of the team. Salmon River, Idaho
Photo: Craig Muderlak
You’ll climb peaks and fish for trout as you learn to travel through rugged mountain terrain. Group management in steep terrain and map reading are two of the skills you’ll learn on your way to becoming a competent backcountry traveler.
Then you’ll swap backpacks for boats. For 10 days you will navigate the Salmon’s whitewater in paddle rafts and oar rigs, learning strokes, commands, guiding basics, and advanced maneuvering. The Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness is home to abundant wildlife, including gray wolves, peregrine falcons, black bears, and bald eagles.
It is also full of human history and you will have the chance to stop at one or more of the old homesteads along the river. Following in the footsteps of mountain men like Buckskin Bill, you too will see great sights and learn skills for future exploration in the wilderness.
Whitewater paddling requires communication, teamwork, and technical skills—all part of the NOLS core curriculum. Salmon River, Idaho
Photo: Elliot Johnston
