What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Lower Salmon River Trail
See some history on this old trail that dates back to the 1860s Florence gold rush. Limited parking starts the trail at the Manning Crevice Bridge. The trail follows the river with a few ups and downs and a handful of rocky challenges. Don't count on much shade, so plan for an early morning hike if you visit in the summer.
Length: 5.4 miles
Intensity: Easy to Intermediate
Fishing and Boating
The 112 miles of Lower Salmon River from the Snake River confluence up to Vinegar Creek are Class II, III, and IV whitewater. Several BLM sites along the river provide access to the water, but anything from White Bird down to the Salmon and Snake River confluence is only accessible via boat. Fly fishing is also an option along the 400-plus miles of the river. Common catches include steelhead and rainbow trout, sturgeon, and chinook and cutthroat sockeye salmon.
Climbing
The Salmon River Mountains are a major range for the state of Idaho, and they offer aid, ice, and trad climbing. Head to Salmon River Slab if you want your choice of seven different climbs. Five of the routes are already bolted. Gravel parking is available, but your vehicle must display a Northwest Forest Pass when parked.
Wildlife Viewing
When you go rafting down this river, you might only have a few seconds to glimpse the bigger species on the shores, but you can keep an eye out to see moose, black bears, mountain goats, white-tailed or mule deer, bighorn sheep, and elk. You might have more time to spot them from a campsite when you have time to focus on signs of activity in the surrounding woods. If you go hiking, you can notice smaller creatures, ranging from butterflies and dragonflies to snakes.
Picnicking
Several designated picnicking spots are available up and down the river. The first one you might want to look at is the Salmon River Picnic Shelter. It has picnic tables, parking, toilet facilities, and a boat ramp. You can also find similar amenities at the Deadwater Picnic Area, too.