Before You Go: Ultimate Salmon River Experience (August)

Overview

Sample Itinerary

We pride ourselves in running a relaxed and flexible schedule. Every trip is different depending upon the group, other trips on the water, and sometimes the weather. The following is a sample of what your trip might be like:

The Day before Your Trip

We’ll meet at 7:00 PM in the conference room of the Stagecoach Inn for a pre-trip meeting. This is an opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and trip leader and ask any last-minute questions. Your trip leader will give you a thorough trip orientation, pass out your waterproof river bags so that you can pack your belongings that evening, and confirm the meeting time for the following morning.

Days 1-6

We’ll take a scenic flight from Salmon to our put-in at Indian Creek, where your boats and crew await. (At certain water levels, we may be lucky enough to put in further upstream at Boundary Creek, which we access by ground shuttle.) After an informative safety talk and some brief paddle raft/inflatable kayak instruction, we take to the pure crisp waters of the breathtaking Middle Fork. Within moments, you’ll experience your first rapid, an appropriate introduction to this river whose exciting, consistent whitewater doesn’t stop until its confluence with the Main Salmon.

Our high-elevation put-in point awards us with fantastic alpine scenery. We spend our first day among deep green forests, dramatic mountains, and crystal clear creeks that pour out of the woods and into the river.

The first day generally sets the pace for our time on the river. Typically, we spend a few hours on the water in the morning, sometimes stopping for a great hike, a visit to a waterfall or an Indian pictograph, or a soak in a natural hot spring. Come lunchtime, we pull over to a sandy beach and enjoy a delicious picnic. After feasting and relaxing on the beach  we get back in our boats for more exciting whitewater. Be sure to try your hand at the paddle raft and inflatable kayak! Mid- to late-afternoon, we stop and make camp; you grab your bags and set up your tent while we take care of the kitchen and “living room”—camp chairs and the site for tonight’s campfire (if permitted). Before long you’ll be savoring pleasing hors d’oeuvres and the beverage of your choice—delicious as these refreshments are, they always taste better after a day on the river! Read, nap, or just sit back and laugh with friends and family as we prepare dinner. After a satisfying feast, the evening is yours to spend however you wish. Maybe music, stories or jokes will bring us together tonight; maybe the popping of the fire, the whisper of the river and the clarity of the big, star-filled sky will encourage silent reflection on the amazing wilderness that is, for now, our home.

Continuing down the river the next few days, we’ll see the scenery change from high mountains to gently rolling hills. Thick forests give way to miles of open grassland dotted with cool glades of pine. The views remain stunning and the whitewater action-packed. Huge rapids like Powerhouse and Pistol Creek are interspersed with less intense, yet still thrilling whitewater in the form of wave trains, chutes, and drops. Our journey downstream takes us to more hot springs, alcoves decorated with Sheepeater Indian pictographs, and magnificent Veil Falls, a unique waterfall that plummets freely into a natural amphitheater from a high rock overhang.

Towards the end of this stretch, the Middle Fork rushes into Impassable Canyon, a narrow gorge that creates some of the most high-intensity and continuous whitewater of the trip. Paddle hard through Redside, Rubber, and Hancock rapids, and enjoy the sudden spectacular change in scenery from wooded hills to the sheer granite walls and huge boulders of Impassable Canyon.

On Day 6 we will reach the confluence with the Main Salmon. The guests who are floating only the Middle Fork will say goodbye and leave the river, heading back to Salmon, Idaho. As we turn west at the confluence, the flow of the combined rivers more than doubles and we bring in the Dories. We float past Corn Creek where our Main Salmon journey officially begins, after the guides expedite the process of bringing on fresh provisions for the continuation of your journey.

Days 7-12

The scenery of the Main is distinct from that of the Middle Fork;  we’re traveling through the 2.3 million-acre Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. This broad canyon is heavily forested with towering pines and conifers and, early in the season, blanketed with vibrant wildflowers. We may be welcomed to the Main by a family of otters swimming near our boats, a herd of bighorn sheep scaling a steep canyon wall, a giant elk or moose wading in the shallows, or if we’re lucky, a black bear standing sentinel on shore.

The journey through the Frank Church brings new discoveries: With half the gradient and twice the water volume, the Main is a pool and drop river, alternating quiet stretches to look for wildlife or fish, and big rolling rapids like Five Mile, Big Mallard and Elkhorn.  We’ll stop at a few of the historical sites such as Buckskin Bill’s homestead and Jim Moore’s place (maybe you’ll find the fortune he buried in the hillside!), and perhaps a stop and short hike to Barth Hot Springs or the peaceful Yew Grove.  The fishing is excellent during these days, and on trips in July and August, warm air and water temperatures encourage frequent refreshing dips in the river.

On day 11 there’s a great swimming hole near French Creek, and some of the river’s best rapids including Ruby, Lake Creek, Lightning Creek, Chair Creek, and Fiddle Creek.  We parallel the Forest Service road and say goodbye to those leaving the trip after the Main. On day 12 the river parallels the highway past Riggins, Time Zone Bridge and onto Hammer Creek where the Lower Salmon officially begins.

Days 13-16 or 17

We’ve now reached the Lower Salmon River. It’s hard to believe that this mighty, deep blue river that rolls through dry, golden canyons is the same high-mountain, clear-water creek that we saw on the Middle Fork. Another significant difference is the water temperature—the river is much warmer here on the Lower, and those of us ready to test it out can swim through Rollercoaster rapid, which marks our entrance to Green Canyon. We’ll stop to visit some ancient pictographs, and then continue our whitewater action with rapids like Wright-Way, Demon’s Drop, and Pine Bar rapids.

As we float along the river, we’ll keep an eye out for the wildlife that inhabits the canyon. Golden eagles, ospreys, and river otters make frequent appearances; if we’re lucky, we might also see beavers, cougars, and Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep.

After Green Canyon come Cougar and Snow Hole canyons, each offering a different perspective on the striking scenery around us. All the while, the river slowly unfolds its long and varied history, providing glimpses of old mining and ranching sites, geological displays of basalt formations, remnants of ancient Indian cultures, and the remains of old Chinese stone houses. Entering Snow Hole Canyon, we face some of the biggest, most exciting whitewater of the Lower Salmon: Half & Half, Snow Hole, and China Bar rapids.

Early season boaters can experience the challenge of Slide Rapid in Blue Canyon—perhaps the most spectacular of the four gorges through which we’ve traveled. Hikers in the group might enjoy climbing to a vista point for an impressive bird’s-eye view of the river winding through the steep and slender canyon. Finally, the Salmon merges with the Snake River, again doubling in size on its run north to the Columbia and west to the Pacific Ocean. That last day on the bigger river we’ll see increased boat traffic, evidence of development, and multi-use impacts as we continue our float.

After passing the confluence with the Grande Ronde, we arrive at our take-out, Heller Bar. Our 16 or 17-day journey has led us through 287 miles of Idaho’s glorious, ever-changing wilderness through the protected areas and on to 20th century developments.  We say goodbye to our guides for a 45 minute van ride to Lewiston where our journey ends.

Included in Your Trip Cost

• Skilled professional guide service
• All meals from lunch on day 1 through lunch on the last day with limited beer and wine with dinner
• 15 or 16 nights catered camping
• One large waterproof bag to hold your personal gear for the trip (approximate sealed size: 13” diameter x 25” tall; 3318 cu in; 54.4 L)
• One small waterproof bag for camera and other small items you’ll want during the day (approximate sealed size: 17” tall x 9” diameter; 1081 cu in; 17.7 L)
• Two-person tents, based on double occupancy. Solo travelers and odd numbers on the booking will have their own tent (no additional cost) and will not need to share. Extra tents can be rented for $30 each.
• Sleep kit—consisting of a sleeping bag, deluxe 3-inch thick air-filled sleeping pad, ground tarp, sheet, pillow and pillowcase packed in a large waterproof bag, which will be provided upon your arrival in camp on night one
• Personal flotation device (PFD) which must be worn at all times on the river in compliance with safety regulations
• 12-ounce insulated Klean Kanteen with Café Lid to use for drinks in camp
• For guests with a high interest in using the inflatable kayaks, we will bring a limited supply of wetsuits. If you have your own, please feel free to bring it with you
• Camp chairs
• Eating utensils, cups, and plates
• Highest quality inflatable rafts and kayaks and related equipment
• Transfers from Salmon to the river and from the river to Lewiston

Not Included in Your Trip Cost

• Transportation to Salmon and back from Lewiston
• Pre- and post-trip accommodations and meals
• Insurance of any kind, including a travel protection plan
• Items of a personal nature (see suggested packing list below)
• Gratuities

TRIP PREPARATION CHECKLIST

☐ Consider Purchasing Travel Protection: For complete details and to purchase the plan we highly recommend, visit:  https://www.oars.com/tpp

☐ Trip Forms (online): Each participant will need to complete the required trip forms within two weeks of making a booking. Refer to your confirmation e-mail for the link to the online forms.  If you prefer to fill out paper forms, please let us know right away.  If you are reserving within 60 days of departure, your forms must be completed immediately to ensure we can properly plan for your trip.

☐ Reserve flights, shuttles, and lodging: Verify with your adventure consultant that your trip has met minimum numbers prior to booking flights and/or reserving overnight lodging for the night before and after your trip, if applicable.

☐ Whitewater Orientation: To increase your safety, we expect everyone to watch our 23-minute Whitewater Orientation video before joining us. Watch at https://www.oars.com/experience/safety/ or call 800-346-6277 to request a free DVD. Please don’t leave home without watching.

☐ Physical Requirements: Your outdoor adventure will be an active participatory trip. Please inform us of any physical limitations you may have as soon as possible. Make sure you are exercising frequently in the months leading up to your trip and can meet our essential eligibility requirements.

☐ Payments: Final payment is due in our office 60 days prior to your trip (refer to your invoice for final payment date). Please let us know if you would like us to automatically charge your credit card on file when final payment is due.

Travel Arrangements

Trip Description

WHITEWATER

Our whitewater experience on the free-flowing Salmon starts off with a bang on the Middle Fork. Rated Class III-IV, the Middle Fork has more whitewater than any similar-length river in the U.S.—over 100 rapids in 100 miles. Turn by turn, as each tributary surges into the river, the Middle Fork dramatically changes in character from a big creek into a thundering river, all the while creating rolling wave trains and thrilling drops.  If you’re into paddling, you can’t beat the Middle Fork. Once we reach the Main, we bring in the dories, where you’ll notice a significant difference in the nature of the whitewater as the river widens and increases in volume.  While the Class III rapids of the Main and Lower are less technical than the Middle Fork, the pool-and-drop nature of the river offers time to relax and enjoy the scenery in between rapids. The increased flows allow you to ride the waves in our whitewater dories.  If you’re ready for something new, the high volume warm water of the Lower is a great place to try stand up paddle boarding.

Boat Options 

The number and variety of boats on an OARS trip will vary based on water levels, the number of participants, and other factors we take into account when planning your adventure. Please be aware that in doing so we will ask you to share boat time with your fellow travelers. We don’t assign boats, nor can we guarantee exactly which crafts we bring, but trust us to provide you with the best possible mix for you and others on your trip. The following boats may be a part of your experience:
Oar Raft, Paddle Raft(requires 11 or more trip guests), Dory, Inflatable Kayak, Stand Up Paddleboard
Learn more about the boats on your trip at https://www.oars.com/experience/boats/

Camp Life

After each active day on the river, we pull ashore to camp for the night. Upon arrival, our first task is to unload the boats using a fire line of crew and guests to expedite the process. Individuals then collect their waterproof bags and locate an area on the beach to camp for the night. On the first night in camp, a crew member will give a demonstration on setting up a tent, which you’ll see is quick and easy. The guides will set up the kitchen and central dining/seating area with camp chairs. They will also locate a secluded area away from camp for the portable toilet, where privacy is assured.

As dinner is being prepared by the guides, hors d’oeuvres will be served and you will have an opportunity to relax, enjoy a drink if you wish, and reflect on the day with your fellow traveling companions.

In the morning, the first wake-up call will let you know that coffee, hot water for tea or cocoa, juice, fresh fruit and cold cereal are ready on the hors d’oeuvres table.  You can fill your mug and grab a bite, then begin to pack up your personal belongings and sleep gear as the guides prepare breakfast. After breakfast is served, the entire camp will be broken down and packing will be completed. The gear will then be loaded onto the boats and we’ll head downstream to see what new adventures await us.

Meals

The meals we serve are hearty and delicious, complete with fresh ingredients and a variety of foods. A typical morning on a multi-day trip might start with French toast, bacon, fruit, orange juice, and coffee or tea. Lunch might be a delicious salad, spread of cold cuts and cheeses with several types of bread, or pitas stuffed with veggies and hummus. There are always cookies and a cooling drink. At dinner, our guides’ cooking skills truly shine—sizzling steaks or salmon, chicken enchiladas, and delicious stir-fry dishes are all part of their repertoire. Dinner generally includes a salad, and desserts are frequent.

Dietary Restrictions

We need to know as soon as possible about any dietary restrictions we should consider in planning your trip.  If you have food allergies or restrictions, we will do our best to accommodate your needs. However, there may be a supplemental menu fee ranging from $5-25 per person per day, to cover any increase in our costs.

Beyond our standard menu, we can provide options for vegetarian, vegan and many allergy-restricted diets without applying a fee.  However, we cannot always provide the same diversity or sophistication for restricted diets as we do for our regular menu.  Similarly, certain allergen-free snack foods are difficult or impossible to source in our locations, so feel free to bring your own favorite snacks to supplement our provisions.  Please let your Adventure Consultant know if you intend to do so.

We cannot guarantee that cross-contamination from allergens will not occur during meal prep, and reserve the right to refuse service to anyone as it relates to safety, including the potential for a medical emergency caused by a severe food allergy. Also, due to the constraints of cooking for a large group in a wilderness setting, availability of ingredients or specialty items in remote locations, and limited packing space, we are unable to cater to dietary preferences (likes or dislikes).

Beverages / Alcohol

We provide water, lemonade, a limited supply of sodas, and a limited supply of beer and wine at camp.  You are welcome to bring your own favorite beverages, alcoholic or non-alcoholic, in non-glass containers. If you choose to bring additional drinks or alcoholic beverages, please let us know in advance. For those planning to buy hard liquor in Idaho, State Liquor Store hours vary.  For information on where you can buy liquor in Idaho, please visit: www.mixblendenjoy.com/.  Selection is likely to be limited. For your safety and the safety of others, the consumption of alcoholic beverages is limited to camp.

Smoking/Vaping

OARS is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for our guests and for our staff.  We ask that smoking of any kind be done away and downwind from other trip participants.

Cannabis

We are obligated to adhere to the regulations established by the managing agency with jurisdiction over the area in which our trip operates. Use of marijuana on federal lands, whether it be medicinal or recreational, is illegal and therefore we ask that you refrain from bringing it with you on your OARS trip.

Drinking Water

Our drinking water comes from the river and is filtered through a purification system we provide.  (No iodine is used in the purification process.)  We store the purified water in large containers that are accessible in camp, at lunch time, and before hikes for filling personal water bottles.

Hiking / Side Creek Exploration

The opportunity to explore the area will depend on several variables, such as the amount of time spent in the boats (often 4-6 hours per day), the time it may take to break camp in the morning and to reach our next camp in the afternoon, other groups in the area, weather, and more. We make every effort to provide guided excursions to nearby points of interest, some of which are brief walks while others are long hikes requiring more planning. The trip leader must consider the overall ability of the group when deciding what hikes to offer. In anticipation of doing some side exploration during your trip, remember to bring a water bottle and lightweight shoes that are comfortable for walking on uneven terrain. All hikes are optional so you can choose to relax by the boats or in camp instead. If you are an avid hiker, please let your Adventure Consultant know prior to your trip so the trip leader is aware.

Fishing

The Salmon River is renowned for its trout fishery. To protect the resource, fishing on the Middle Fork is limited to catch and release, with single barbless hooks. No bait is allowed. Our guides will be happy to explain proper handling techniques for catch-and-release fishing, if you are not already familiar with them.  After the confluence with the Main there are no catch and release restrictions.  You can fish for smallmouth bass and, in the fall, steelhead. You’ll need to bring your own gear. We recommend collapsible poles for ease in packing, light spinning tackle with 4- to 6-pound test, and an assortment of spinning lures such as Mepps, Rooster tails, and Super-dupers. Please bring your rod protected in a hard case. Fly anglers do quite well, especially in major tributaries.  The final few days on the Lower Salmon and the Snake you may be lucky enough to see a Sturgeon.

Non-residents of Idaho can buy a short-term fishing license by calling 1-800-635-7820. You can also purchase one online at www.fishandgame.idaho.gov. Additionally, licenses are available in Salmon where you can purchase licenses at Salmon River Fly Box, 402 Main Street. Their telephone number is (208) 756-1939, please call for hours.  Remember to purchase licenses by the day before your trip begins, because there is no time to do so in the morning.

Anyone 14 years and over needs to have a fishing license. Children under 14 years do not need to buy a license, but they must be accompanied by an adult from their party with a valid license.

The Portable Toilet

While the idea of a river trip is appealing to most people, many are inhibited or reluctant because of modesty or uncertainty.  To minimize our impacts, we carry out all solid human waste and use a portable toilet system that is set up each day at camp in a secluded location a discrete distance from tent sites. It is essentially a toilet without plumbing and is available from the time you pull into camp each afternoon until you leave camp the next day.  Toilet paper and a convenient hand-washing station are provided.

We also carry a small container called the “day tripper” that can be easily accessed during the day should the need arise.  It is a personal disposable toilet, which includes an odor-proof transport bag, chemical solidifier and odor eliminator, toilet paper, and oversized hand wipe.

On popular stretches of wilderness rivers, the common refrain is “dilution is the solution to pollution.”  We practice this approach by urinating in the river.

Bathing

Bathing is not allowed in the river or in any of the side streams that feed into the rivers. You may want to bring a solar shower or you can borrow a bailing bucket from one of the rafts to rinse off after soaping up. Both are to be used at least 200 feet away from the water source in an area that will absorb the runoff. We recommend using a liquid biodegradable soap such as Campsuds or Dr. Bronner’s www.drbronner.com which can be purchased in most stores that have a camping section and can also be used to wash clothes. You may also find a good selection at your local health food store. Disposable antibacterial towelettes (Coleman Swash Cloths, baby wipes, etc.) can also be purchased and are especially convenient for spring and fall trips.

Menstrual Cycle

Even if you aren’t anticipating your menstrual period, come prepared for it. You can use sandwich-sized Ziploc bags during the day to store products while you are on the river or hiking. Used pads or tampons can be disposed of at lunch or in camp. We provide some menstrual products on most trips for emergencies.

Cameras

We provide a small waterproof bag (17” tall x 9” diameter—approximate sealed size) to hold your camera and other items you might need during the day.  While these bags are designed to be waterproof, you may wish to place your camera in a zip-lock plastic bag or waterproof casing for additional protection.  We also strongly recommend you take out a rider on your homeowner’s policy to cover your camera—especially if it’s fine equipment. Make sure to bring additional memory cards, batteries, and any other extras you will need.

Electronics & Technology

The use of electronic devices, especially music players and flying drones, on your trip may represent an intrusion into the wilderness experience of your fellow guests. We ask that you be mindful of the impacts to others and respect the wilderness nature of the trip. Please bring headphones if you intend to listen to music during the trip.

Many of our guests travel with their smartphone even though there is no cell service. On a trip like this, there is always the risk of water damage to smartphones and other electronic devices, even when they are stowed in a dry bag. If you intend to take your phone with you on the river, consider investing in a small, waterproof case just for your phone.

*The use of drones is prohibited by the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management on the Salmon River

Power Sources

We are not able to provide a power source for powering or recharging devices. To keep cameras, phones, GPS, a CPAP and other devices working you may need spare batteries or portable power. Options include compact portable solar panels that can recharge devices directly, portable power banks that store power, or a combo unit that can be charged before the trip and recharged with a built-in solar panel. Solar panels must be designed to withstand outdoor elements and fit in your dry bag (roll-up or no larger than 12” x 12”). Keep in mind direct sunlight in a river canyon may be limited and even non-existent at camp (mornings and evenings).

Communication

Once you are on the river there is limited communication with the “outside world.”   Cell phone service is not available.  Our guides carry a satellite communication device for emergency use.  They can call out, but we cannot call them.  Periodically the trip leader will check in with our office.  If you have someone that needs to contact you about an emergency at home, they should call our office (800-346-6277).  If possible, we will relay the message to you.  Keep in mind, however, it could be several days or longer before the message actually reaches you.  For your family at home you should define for them what you consider an emergency and provide them with instructions to call our office in the event one occurs during your vacation.

Wildfires & Smoke

Fire activity frequently impacts the air quality on our trips, and occasionally wildfires may be present in the immediate vicinity of where we’re traveling.  Smoke impacts are more likely in the latter-half of the summer season, so those with asthma or other respiratory conditions may wish to steer clear of this time frame.  In general, we will not cancel a trip on account of smoky conditions, except in cases of clear danger to life or property.  Necessary changes to logistics and/or destination may occur with very short notice as fire conditions are constantly changing.  We will do our best to keep you apprised of excessively smoky conditions that can be foreseen for your upcoming trip, but we also encourage you to stay informed about local fire activity: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/

Our standard cancellation terms & conditions apply should you choose to cancel due to environmental conditions resulting from a wildfire near to where our trip operates.  Please review our Terms & Conditions section in this document, below.  Furthermore, we recommend you consider investing in a comprehensive Travel Protection Plan that provides you the ability to “cancel for any reason” should you feel conditions from a nearby wildfire may result in you canceling your reservation.

CPAP Machine

If you require the use of a CPAP machine and intend to bring one with you, be sure to alert your OARS Adventure Consultant prior to your trip to let us know the dimensions of the machine, description of battery(s), and any protective case(s). Travel-sized CPAPs are readily available and often come with a battery kit.  You must assess the power needs of your CPAP and bring the battery(s) needed to operate it for each night of your travels. We’re able to accommodate the transportation of your machine and accessories on the trip in metal dry boxes or soft dry bags; however, please understand that despite efforts to protect your equipment we can’t guarantee your machine and accessories won’t suffer water or impact damage and therefore we recommend additional protective case(s) for your machine & accessories.

Firearms

Our guides do not carry firearms on our trips, and in most cases are prohibited from doing so by the managing agency. As a matter of preference, we ask all our guests to kindly leave your own firearms at home or in your vehicle.

Traveling at High Altitude

Your trip will visit areas ranging from 6000 – 8400 feet above sea level, therefore you may experience symptoms associated with altitude illness. We recommend the following measures to help prevent altitude illness: arrive ahead of your scheduled departure to allow for acclimatization; drink 3-4 quarts of water every day; make sure about 70% of your calories come from carbs; only use alcohol, tobacco or sleeping aid medications in moderation or not at all. Please familiarize yourself with symptoms, treatment and more about altitude illness at the CDC.

Weather & Water Conditions

You may want to check one week prior to your trip for an up-to-date weather forecast.  We recommend the following website:  www.wunderground.com for weather in Lewiston and Salmon, Idaho.
Average Air & Water Temperatures

Getting Ready

River Runners Responsibility Code

1. Read the pre-trip literature and arrive at the meeting place on time.
2. Understand the risks: your safety is ultimately your responsibility.
3. Treat your fellow guests and guides with respect and courtesy; harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
4. Wear clothing and personal protective equipment suitable for the current conditions.
5. Listen to and follow the guides’ instructions.
6. Abide by the managing agency’s rules.
7. No drugs or alcohol prior to, or during, your trip; alcohol is allowed in moderation in camp on overnight trips.
8. Minimize your impact on the environment.
9. Wear the OARS-issued and properly–fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all times when in the boats or swimming. Wear a helmet when required.
10. Your children are your responsibility!

Packing for Your Trip

Click on this link for helpful information about packing for your trip: https://www.oars.com/video/pack-river-rafting-trip/

The information below is subject to when your trip takes place.  The need for warm weather or cold weather items should be based on a reliable weather forecast leading up to your trip.

Please note: You are limited by Gem Air to 35 pounds of baggage per person on the flight to the put-in at Indian Creek. Baggage handling on the small aircraft is made much easier if your luggage is soft-sided.

Clothing

During the day—Start with a swimsuit and/or swim trunks and synthetic or merino wool shirt as a base layer.  Additional layers, like long underwear, fleece and rain gear, can be added and subtracted depending on the weather, temperature, and how wet you’re getting in the rapids.

In camp—When the weather is warm, lightweight cotton pants/skirt/shorts and shirt make great campwear.  Those so inclined may enjoy wearing a cotton skirt or sarong on summer evenings.  In the spring and fall, or on trips at the higher elevations, a dry set of long underwear is the perfect base layer under long pants and a fleece sweater.

Footwear

During the day—The best choice is an amphibious shoe that drains water, protects your toes and won’t come off in swirling current.  A retired pair of athletic shoes can work well, too.  Sport sandals with a heel strap are a good option, especially on rivers with sandy beaches.  Find professional-grade options made by Chaco® at www.chacos.com, the official footwear sponsor of OARS guides.

In camp—We recommend wearing shoes in camp due to the risk of kicking a rock buried in the sand, or stepping on a sharp stick.  The athletic shoes or light hikers you bring for hiking can double as your camp shoes.  It’s nice to put on dry socks and shoes after a day on the water.  Flip flops or “Crocs” are OK for wearing in camp only.

Please note: If you buy new shoes or sandals for the trip, make sure you break them in first! 

Headwear

During the day—Wide-brimmed hats are a good choice for sun protection.  Ball caps are also useful since they fit under helmets, which are required attire when paddling our whitewater rivers.

In camp—When the weather is cool or cold, you’ll want a beanie-style hat to wear in camp.  They are the perfect remedy for bed-head as you rise from your sleeping bag to secure your morning cup of coffee or tea, or for retaining warmth in the evening hours after the sun sets.

Hot Weather Trips

During summer months, conditions on the river may be hot and sunny.  These trips require less gear than spring trips, but thoughtful packing is still required.  Protection from the sun and heat will be critical to your enjoyment and health while on the river and during side hikes.  To protect yourself from the sun’s rays, consider bringing long-sleeved shirts and pants.

A good way to keep cool is with long-sleeved cotton shirts.  Old collared dress shirts work well.  They can be soaked in the water and worn in the raft or carried on a hike for later use.  This method of evaporative cooling is very effective.  Bandanas are another useful item that can be used in this manner.

Camp-wear should be made of cotton and be loose-fitting.  A combination of shorts/skirt and a lightweight top is ideal for staying cool on hot afternoons.

To Avoid Being Cold

Synthetic or merino wool long underwear is a must-have on river trips.  It can be worn under shorts, rain gear, T-shirts, etc., then stripped off when the chill of the morning has worn off. It keeps you warm even if it’s wet (which can happen easily), dries quickly, and it’s compact enough to be stuffed into your small waterproof bag or daypack after you take it off. It can be layered under your waterproof rain jacket and pants. In cooler weather a rain jacket and pants work better than a wetsuit, because the jacket and pants can be put on when it’s cold, or when you’re going through whitewater, then easily taken off when the sun comes out and it’s hot. Some folks find that wetsuits don’t work as well as they are tedious to put on and take off. During early season or high-water trips we do provide wetsuits for paddlers. Be aware that cotton items, once wet, do not insulate; only synthetic and wool materials will keep you warm during cool, wet weather.

Something warm for your top & bottom: You need to be prepared for inclement weather. Bring a good fleece or wool top and bottom, along with a warm hat and gloves. You’ll want to double up on your synthetic layers so that you’ll have a set to wear in the boat and a set of warm, dry clothes for camp.

Rain Gear

Rain gear protects you from rain, wind, and the splash of the rapids. It is one of the essential items that all guests should have no matter what time of year you are traveling.  Look for a jacket and pants that are 100% waterproof, not just water resistant.  A hooded jacket is recommended as well as good secure closures around your head, neck, wrists and ankles.  Do not bring a rain poncho as it cannot be worn under your PFD.

Sun Protection

Protecting yourself from the sun should be taken very seriously! In many cases, a long-sleeve shirt is the best method for preventing sunburn on your upper body. Light-weight long pants may also be appropriate to protect your legs.

A hat, sunscreen, lip balm and sunglasses are also a must. Rheos, the official sunglasses sponsor of OARS guides, offers polarized floatable nautical eyewear with 100% UV protection. Use promo code OARS15 to save 15% on any purchase from The Nautical Eyewear Collection.

Bugs & Mosquitoes

Bugs and mosquitoes vary depending on location and time of year.  It’s a good idea to come prepared with insect repellent.  Long sleeved shirts and pants may be desirable at times. Occasionally on a very hot, dry year there are yellow jackets present.  If you are allergic, please bring two epi pens.

Sleeping Gear

We supply a professionally laundered sleeping bag with liner, a pillow with freshly laundered pillowcase, sleeping pad, ground tarp as well as a shared tent.  The complete customized sleep kit that we provide is designed for your comfort and maximizes available luggage space. Our sleeping bags are degree rated depending on the season and are 33” x 84,” which is longer than the normal (80”).

Suggested Packing List

Equipment and Personal Items:
☐ Two 1-liter water bottles: durable and reusable, insulated bottles recommended for trips in hot climates to prevent water from becoming too hot to drink
☐ Locking carabiner (for clipping a water bottle or personal dry bag into a raft or inflatable kayak
☐ Hand sanitizer
☐ Headlamp or flashlight (consider bringing extra batteries)
☐ Sunglasses (preferably polarized such as Rheos floatable eyewear www.rheosgear.com) with securing strap (consider bringing a spare)
☐ Small, quick-drying towel
☐ Toiletries, including biodegradable soap (such as Campsuds or Dr. Bronner’s)
☐ Sunscreen and lip protection: waterproof & SPF 30 or higher (aerosol sprays not recommended)
☐ Moisturizing lotion or cream
☐ Insect repellent
☐ Personal first aid kit (Band-aids, antibiotic ointment, ibuprofen, moleskin, eye drops, etc.)
☐ Spare pair of glasses and/or contacts
☐ Cash for gratuities

Footwear:
☐ River shoes or sandals with a heel strap (such as those made by Chaco® )
“Aqua socks” strongly discouraged
☐ Athletic shoes or light hikers
☐ Hiking socks

Clothing:
☐ Long-sleeved shirt: lightweight and light color for sun protection (old dress shirts work well)
☐ Long pants: lightweight and light color for sun protection
☐ Shade hat or visor with securing strap– flexible enough to fit under your helmet
☐ Rain jacket & pants: waterproof (not water resistant). A hooded jacket with secure closures is recommended
☐ Swimwear: a two-piece is recommended for women for changing and using the restroom. Tankinis and board shorts are a great option.
☐ Underwear: quick-drying
☐ Quick-dry Shorts: 1 pair
☐ Quick-dry T-shirts/tops: 1-2
☐ Synthetic long underwear top & bottom: 1 set light to mid-weight (optional for July and August trips)
☐ Jacket: fleece or down/synthetic fill puffy (depending on the time of year, weather, location)
☐ Camp clothes: comfortable and appropriate for season. Cotton recommended for hot weather trips.

Optional Items:
☐ Camera and accessories
☐ Fishing gear
☐ Sarong: useful for sun protection, evaporative cooling, changing clothes, etc.
☐ Small day pack, waist pack, or hydration pack for side hikes
☐ Bathing wipes: pre-moistened disposable towels
☐ Small bags: stuff sacs, zip locks, or similar for organizing items in your dry bag
☐ Large empty bag: laundry bag, pillow case, or similar for putting clothes into after your trip
☐ Ear plugs
☐ Binoculars
☐ Splash jacket and pants
☐ Lightweight cord and clothespins for drying clothes
☐ Sketchbook, notebook and pen, paperback book
☐ Bandana
☐ Stand-up Urination Device

Find all the gear you need for your trip online in the OARStore + 15% of your purchase helps provide under-resourced youth with outdoor adventure experiences..

Local Outdoor Equipment Stores- Salmon

93 Outdoor Sports- 517 S Challis St St 1, Salmon, ID 83467 (208) 756-3002

Salmon River Fly Box – 402 Main St, Salmon, ID 83467 (208) 756-1939

Packing Your Gear 

At the pre-trip meeting each person will be given one large waterproof bag (approximate sealed size: 13″ diameter x 25″ tall) for your clothing and personal items.  This bag will be your “checked luggage” and will only be accessible in camp. Tents are stowed separately.  Please note:  your sleeping gear will be packed in a separate bag and waiting for you at the river. 

We also provide a small waterproof bag per person for day use, where you can keep items such as raingear, camera, sunscreen, lip balm, etc. (approximate sealed size: 17” tall x 9” diameter; 1081 cu in; 17.7 L). The bags are cylindrical in shape and pack from the top.  Please pack light, and keep in mind that river attire is casual: comfort, convenience and boat space take precedence over style.  At the end of the trip, you will return to Lewiston with your waterproof bags, where you will be able to unpack your gear before your trip home.

Please note: You are limited by Gem Air to 35 pounds of baggage per person for the flight. Baggage handling on the small aircraft is made much easier if your luggage is soft-sided.

Extra Luggage

If you have extra luggage we can have a limited amount transported to meet you after your trip, but we assume no responsibility for loss or damage. 

Valuables

We recommend that you leave your valuables at home. For personal items like wallets, purses and cell phones, we recommend putting them in a zip-lock bag at the bottom of your waterproof bag with your clothing.

Gratuities

Tipping is appreciated by our staff. If you are wondering how much to tip, you may consider that we operate in a service industry with a host of behind-the-scenes contributors in addition to the guides on your trip. In general, we suggest a gratuity based on 10 – 15% of the trip cost. It is customary on OARS trips for gratuities to be given to the Trip Leader in the form of cash, a personal check who will then distribute appropriately amongst all the guides and support staff.

Something Voluntary

In reviewing your statement, you’ll note a $1/person/day donation to Idaho Rivers United, a non-profit conservation organization dedicated to defending Idaho’s free-flowing rivers. One-hundred percent of these funds go directly to the river protection work of IRU, and your contribution is tax-deductible. Please notify our office if you would prefer to delete the donation from your balance.

Helpful Links

Gear up in the OARStore where 15% of all purchases help fund outdoor adventures for under-resourced youth
www.oars.com/OARStore

Shop for the latest in top-quality clothing, footwear, & outdoor gear
www.rei.com

Recommended Reading List
www.oars.com/blog/essential-idaho-reading/

Additional information about the area
www.visitidaho.org

Terms & Conditions

Reservations and Deposits

An $800/person deposit is required at the time of booking.  Deposits may be made by check, money order, or Visa/Mastercard (American Express and Discover incur a 3% processing fee). Prices are in US Dollars and all payments must be made in US Dollars.  Payment of the deposit establishes your acceptance of our complete Terms and Conditions. Individual departures and trip capacity are strictly limited by the managing agency.

Canceling your trip after your deposit is processed will incur cancellation fees because OARS has absorbed costs on your behalf and will turn others away who would like to book the spaces we’re holding for you. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Accounts on which final payment has not been received 60 days prior to the departure date will be canceled without exception.

Cancellations and Refunds

Your deposit is fully refundable, less a 3% processing fee, for 7 days after you book when you submit a deposit 7 days or more prior to the final payment due date.

If you must cancel your reservation after the rescission period described above, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the schedule below.  We do regret we cannot make exceptions to the cancellation policy for any reason, including foul weather, poor air quality, wildfire activity, acts of terrorism, civil unrest, or personal emergencies.  There is no refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early.  For these reasons, we strongly urge you to consider purchasing a travel protection plan (see Travel Protection below).

Date of Cancellation                              Cancellation Fee

180 or more days prior to your trip           $100/person
179 – 120 days prior to your trip                 $200/person
119 – 90 days prior to your trip                   $400/person
89 days or less prior to your trip                Full Fare*

Canceled Trips

OARS reserves the right to cancel any trip due to insufficient registration or other factors that make the trip impractical to operate.  In such instances, we will inform you at least 45 days prior to departure.  Do not make nonrefundable travel arrangements unless you have spoken to your Adventure Consultant regarding the status of your trip.

If a trip must be canceled or postponed due to force majeure (factors outside the control of OARS), OARS will provide full credit for payments made toward future travel, or a refund less a 5% service fee plus any nonrefundable payments made on your behalf to 3^rd-party suppliers.  OARS will make good faith efforts to recover deposits made on your behalf to 3^rd-party suppliers, however we can’t guarantee recovery of any or all of the advance payments made.  OARS is not responsible for expenses incurred by participants in preparation for a canceled trip.

Transfers

If you need to move your reservation to a different trip during the same season, or to a credit account for the following year, there is a $50/person fee up until 90 days prior to departure for a one-time transfer of your payment. Transfer requests made 89 days or less prior to departure will be treated like a cancellation according to the schedule above.

Medical

Under most circumstances, if you are of an adventurous spirit and in reasonably good health, you should have no problem enjoying an OARS trip. People with medical conditions, including pregnancy, should have a physician’s approval before taking an adventure travel trip.

Travel Protection

Because there are costs that you will incur if you cancel the spaces on this trip that we’re now holding for you, or in the event you need to be evacuated during the trip due to an unforeseen illness or injury, we strongly encourage our guests to purchase an optional travel protection plan.  A travel protection plan may help reimburse the cost of your pre-paid, non-refundable payments in the event you are prevented from taking your trip for a covered reason. Trip participants must understand that in the event of an illness or injury on a wilderness trip, evacuation can be prolonged, difficult, and expensive.  For complete details and to purchase the plan we highly recommend, visit:  https://www.oars.com/tpp

Please note: To be eligible for coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, you must purchase the plan within 21 days of your initial trip payment and you must be medically fit to travel at the time you pay for the plan.

Emergency Medical Evacuation coverage can be purchased as stand-alone coverage, independent of a comprehensive travel protection plan. You can get a quote for this type of policy by entering a Trip Cost amount of $0 when getting a quote here: www.oars.com/tpp

Please note: By entering a Trip Cost amount of $0, the plan will not include Trip Cancellation coverage and you may not be eligible for Emergency Medical Expense benefits relating to any pre-existing conditions.

Liability Release / Assumption of Risk

Everyone is required to sign a standard liability release / assumption of risk form before the trip, confirming awareness that there are inherent risks associated with the trip. Due to the nature of the activities, a condition of your participation is that you will sign this form and return it to our office before the trip begins. Anyone who refuses to sign the form will not be allowed to participate, and consistent with OARS cancellation policy, there will be no refund of the trip fees at that time.

Responsibility – An Important Notice

O.A.R.S. West, Inc. and cooperating agencies act only in the capacity of agent for the participants in all matters relating to transportation and/or all other related travel services, and assume no responsibility however caused for injury, loss, or damage to person or property in connection with any service, including but not limited to that resulting directly or indirectly from acts of God, detention, annoyance, delays, and expenses arising from quarantine, pandemics, strikes, theft, pilferage, force majeure, failure of any means of conveyance to arrive or depart as scheduled, civil disturbances, government restrictions or regulations, and discrepancies or change in transit over which it has no control. Reasonable changes in itinerary may be made where deemed advisable for the comfort and wellbeing of the participants, including cancellation due to water fluctuation, insufficient bookings (this trip requires a minimum of 4 guests – 6 for gourmet, craft beer and wine trips), and other factors. There is risk in whitewater rafting, particularly during high-water conditions. Rafts, dories, and kayaks do capsize. You could be swept overboard. Your guide will make every attempt to assist, but you must be strong and agile enough to “self-help” and “float-it-out” without further endangering yourself or others. We reserve the right not to accept guests weighing more than 260 pounds or with a waist/chest size exceeding 56 inches. We may decide, at any time, to exclude any person or group for any reason we feel is related to the safety of our trips. We are experienced at accommodating people with various disabilities. Please give us an opportunity to make you feel welcome. We need to discuss any special requirements ahead of time.

OARS trips occur in areas where unpredictable environmental conditions are to be expected.  To moderate dangerous situations for our guests and guides, all travelers must obey the rules and regulations as determined by the managing agencies and the Trip Leader and demonstrate reasonable consideration for other guests and OARS employees.  We reserve the right to remove any guest from a trip if, in our opinion, that guest’s actions or behaviors pose a threat to the safety of her/himself or others, or if those actions or behaviors compromise the enjoyment of the trip for others.  Should a guest be asked to leave a trip, there will be no refund for the unused portion, nor will OARS be responsible for additional expenses incurred by the guest for accommodations, return transport, change fees, etc. Prices subject to change without notice.  Upon advancement of deposit the depositor agrees to be bound by the above recited terms and conditions. OARS is an equal opportunity provider.