There’s nothing quite like experiencing the wild beauty of the Main Salmon River in the Cadillac of whitewater craft, a hard-hulled dory. Sleek and powerful, dories offer an unparalleled river experience as they glide effortlessly through calm water, slice through rapids, and turn wave trains into roller coasters.
About This Trip
Start your days on the Main Salmon with hot coffee and a hearty breakfast on a sandy beach, then climb into a hand-crafted dory and venture deep into the 2.3-million-acre Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. Each day brings new discoveries as you float beneath towering pines and past wildflower-blanketed hillsides. As you head downstream, you might stop to soak in a natural hot spring, hike to Native American pictographs, or explore a historic homestead. In the evenings, you’ll settle into riverside camps where your guides will whip up delicious meals, and stories will flow under a sky full of stars.
Dories are in their element on the Main Salmon, where free-flowing Class III rapids are separated by peaceful stretches of water perfect for watching the canyon glide by while keeping an eye out for wildlife. From the rolling wave trains of Black Creek Rapid to Elkhorn, these legendary boats dip and dance with remarkable grace. Their buoyant design and nimble handling turn every rapid into a splashy ride sure to delight even the most experienced boater. But don’t take our word for it. Come see for yourself why dories have become legendary in Idaho, and you may just find yourself a dory convert.
