Stanley, Idaho River Rafting

Stanley sits at the nexus of the waters that give Idaho the nickname "The Whitewater State." Perched on the banks of the headwaters of the Salmon River and thirty miles from the origin of the South Fork of the Payette River, thousands of river rafters and boaters flood the streets of Stanley every season. Stanley is the jumping-off point for running through 100 miles of wilderness canyon on the world-renowned Middle Fork of the Salmon "River of No Return."

Contact A River Rafting Guide in Stanley, Idaho

What to Know Before You Go River Rafting near Stanley, Idaho

Should I make a reservation with a river rafting guide?

Yes! Being a popular destination for whitewater rafting means you'll want to make a reservation with a guide well before your trip. While some guide companies allow walk-ins, it's reassuring to know you've booked your guided trip ahead of time, especially if you're going with a group.

When is the best time to go river rafting?

You may know that the typical rafting season in Stanley runs from Memorial day through Labor day. You'll also want to know WHEN you go dramatically determines what type of experience you'll have. For instance, Memorial Day through June is the best time to go if you're looking for an exhilarating experience. The snowpack is rapidly melting as the temperatures increase, so the water level is higher, moving faster, and you are most likely to experience class IV rapids. As the rafting season wears on to July and August, a majority of the snowpack has melted, so the water level drops. The rapids downsize to class II and III, making leisurely moments more likely. However, no matter the time of year, or water level, thme to go if you're looking for an exhilarating experience. The snowpack is rapidly melting as the temperatures increase, so the water level is higher, moving faster, and you are most likely to experience class IV rapids. As the rafting season wears on to July and August, a majority of the snowpack has melted, so the water level drops. The rapids downsize to class II and III, making leisurely moments more likely. However, no matter the time of year, or water level, there are equally dangerous obstacles to maneuver.

Can kids go on guided river raft tours?

Yes! Family trips are great for kids 4+. Since river rafting can be inherently dangerous, we recommend going with a guide and booking later in the season when the rapids have settled to class II and III.

What do I need to bring for a whitewater tour?

If you've booked a ere are equally dangerous obstacles to maneuver.

Can kids go on guided river raft tours?

Yes! Family trips are great for kids 4+. Since river rafting can be inherently dangerous, we recommend going with a guide and booking later in the season when the rapids have settled to class II and III.

What do I need to bring for a whitewater tour?

If you've booked a whitewater expedition with a guide, you won't need to bring much. Your guide will supply all of the equipment you need. Depending on the length of your trip in Stanley, your guide may even make you lunch and provide snacks. Always check ahead of time. Refrain from bringing your phone or valuables.

What should I wear on a river raft tour?

Many guests prefer to wear swimsuits and shorts since we recommend clothing that dries fast. For footwear, closed athletic shoes or river shoes are ideal. Refrain from wearing slip-ons or flip-flops. Since you'll be provided a helmet, there's no need for a hat. Remember the sunscreen!

What are the different river rafting trips you can take?

You can do everything from get your feet wet on the local "Day Stretch," with single and half-day rafting and kayaking trips, to embarking on a six-day backcountry adventure through the largest wilderness in the lower 48 states. You can even pair it with a fly-fishing trip! Consider kayaking the run with a guide if you want an extra thrill.

Where can I get guidebooks and maps?

Maps for the Middle Fork of the Salmon, Main Salmon, & other multi-day trips are available for purchase locally.