MIDDLE FORK OF THE SALMON

The Middle Fork of the Salmon River originates 20 miles northwest of Stanley, Idaho. It flows 106 miles northwest before joining the Main Salmon River. The Middle Fork passes through a landscape of rugged peaks and deep valleys. The river drops more than 3,000 feet from its start to the confluence averaging almost 30 feet per mile. Near its junction with the Main Salmon River are the Bighorn Crags, one of the most rugged and wild mountain ranges in the nation. Only a few trails, landing strips, historic homesteads and Forest Service stations are evidence of man's presence. It is this combination of rugged scenic beauty, quiet isolation, and the challenge of wild water that draws people to raft the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. The Middle Fork flows through the 2.3 million acre Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. This wilderness has been set aside to preserve and perpetuate natural conditions.

Wildlife Abounds! - The Middle Fork of the Salmon River country abounds with game such as deer, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, wolf and bear. Cougar, lynx, bobcat, coyote, fox, porcupine, badger, beaver, marten, mink, otter, muskrat, and skunk also share this rugged habitat. chukar partridge and Franklin, blue and ruffed grouse, ospreys and eagles are also found here. The Middle Fork provides outstanding fishing. Salmon, Steelhead, Cutthroat, Rainbow and Dolly