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River of No Return with Clay Jenkinson
Idaho’s Salmon River
10 days, 9 nights (4 nights lodging, 5 nights camping)
July 31 – August 9, 2023
Pricing: $4,895/person based on double occupancy
Join historian and author Clay Jenkinson in exploring the Salmon River through Idaho’s River of No Return Wilderness Area, the largest roadless area in the lower 48 states. This river adventure provides participants with a break from modern life to raft, hike, swim, sing, tell stories, gaze at the stars, sit around bonfires, and explore the history of this stunning river canyon.
The Shoshoni told Lewis and Clark that not only was the Salmon River not suitable for canoes, but it was so hemmed in by rocks and high cliffs that traveling along its shores would also be an impossibility. Unconvinced, William Clark made a reconnaissance trip along the river’s upper reaches, but after 14 miles he was forced to acknowledge that the Salmon was indeed impassable for the expedition’s dugout canoes. Fortunately, that’s not the case with expert guides and modern river rafts. Over six days, we’ll complete the river voyage that Clark deemed impossible.
Paddle the River
We’ll begin our adventure by traveling via coach through the Three Forks (Madison, Gallatin, Jefferson) region of the Missouri River and up the Jefferson River to what Meriwether Lewis regarded to be the source of the “mighty and heretofore deemed endless Missouri River.” Like Corps of Discovery member Hugh McNeal, we’ll stand near the continental divide with one foot on either side of the great Missouri River. From there we’ll make the short climb up to Lemhi Pass to look at the same maze of seemingly impassable mountains that Lewis observed on August 12, 1805. The day ends with a drive down into the Columbia River watershed to Salmon, Idaho. It was here, at the confluence of the Lemhi and Salmon Rivers, that Lewis and Clark conducted their famous council with the Shoshone leadership where Sacagawea recognized one of the leaders of the tribe as her brother Cameahwait.
We’ll spend the next five days floating, paddling, and camping on the magnificent Salmon River, a Class III whitewater river ideal for both beginner and experienced rafters. Our river adventure will include expert guides and historical interpretation, and we build in plenty of time for relaxation. Our 80-miles on the river is punctuated with natural hot springs, white sandy beaches, and other ideal spots of respite.
Camp in Style
There’s no struggling with tent set-up or camp stoves on this trip. Our outfitter ensures that you’ll will be greeted at the end of an adventurous day with a comfortable tent site, a cold drink, and hearty hors d'oeuvres, followed by dinner on tablecloths surrounded by extraordinary scenes of untamed wilderness.
Your tour begins in Bozeman, Montana, and ends in Missoula, Montana. Plan on a mildly strenuous 10 days of historical commentary, interpretation, wit, storytelling, and discussion of the meaning of American wilderness with nationally-acclaimed Jefferson and Lewis & Clark scholar Clay S. Jenkinson. Included are guide services by the finest area outfitters, equipment for five nights of camping and rafting (except sleeping bags), all activities, lodging, meals*, transport, USFS fees, state and local taxes, and gratuities. Airfare is not included.
Accommodations along the river are outstanding. Renowned outfitter Wayne Fairchild and his crew will set up camp, prepare delicious meals, and make sure the beer is always cold. Meals are delicious and made with fresh ingredients and a cheerful kitchen crew. Arrangements can be made for special dietary needs with advance notice.
It’s impossible to pass through this part of the country without plenty of talk about Lewis and Clark Expedition, but we’ll have other discussions as well. On each of four consecutive river evenings Clay will talk about the history of American conservation through the lives of four great thinkers. The first evening will be devoted to Henry David Thoreau, the second to John Muir, the third to Aldo Leopold, and the fourth to Edward Abbey. We will provide you with a series of short readings (essays) for discussion around the fire.
Cost: $4,895 per person, based on double occupancy. If you are traveling alone, we can provide you with a roommate. The single supplement is $1,000 if you prefer a room – and tent – of your own.
Please note that to join our adventure through the Salmon River canyon in the Idaho wilderness, participants must be in good physical shape. If you have any doubts or medical conditions, please consult your physician before signing on.
*The only meal that is not included is dinner on Day 2, where we allow guests to venture into the riverside town of Salmon, Idaho and have dinner on their own at any of a number of available restaurants.
