...WIDESPREAD WINTER WEATHER AND WIND IMPACTS... .A series of cold fronts will move through the Northern Rockies bringing wind and snow impacts beginning as early as late tonight into Friday morning. Snow squalls are possible in west-central and southwest Montana late Friday night into early Saturday morning. A push of Arctic air will move westward across the Continental Divide on Saturday bringing another uptick and change in direction of winds with much colder temperatures to follow. * WHAT...Snow expected. There is a likelihood of minor to moderate winter weather impacts. Total snow accumulations between 2 and 12 inches. Winds gusting as high as 50 mph. * WHERE...Lolo Pass, Dixie, Elk City, Highway 93 Sula to Lost Trail Pass, and Highway 12 Lowell to Lolo Pass. * WHEN...From 5 AM MST /4 AM PST/ Friday to 8 PM MST /7 PM PST/ Saturday. * IMPACTS...For MODERATE winter weather impacts, expect disruptions to normal activities. Hazardous traveling conditions. Use extra caution while driving. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday morning and evening commutes, especially over higher passes. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches.
The ideal streamflow range for the Salmon River is between 1,500 and 60,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), with spring and early summer being the best times to raft for optimal water levels. The river is classified as a Class III-IV, which is considered moderate to difficult. The segment mileage for the Salmon River run is 100 miles, and it's broken into three sections: the Upper Salmon, the Main Salmon, and the Lower Salmon.
The Upper Salmon is the most challenging section of the river, with Class IV rapids and technical rapids like Velvet Falls, which requires precise maneuvering. The Main Salmon has a mixture of Class II-IV rapids and is known for its scenic beauty. The Lower Salmon is the easiest section of the river with Class II rapids and offers a more relaxed experience.
The Salmon River has several obstacles to consider, including rocks, rapids, and other natural hazards. Rafters must also follow specific regulations, such as wearing personal flotation devices (PFDs), carrying appropriate safety equipment, and following Leave No Trace principles. Additionally, there are regulations around campsites, fires, and human waste disposal.
Overall, the Salmon River is a thrilling and beautiful whitewater river run in Idaho that offers a range of experiences for rafters of different skill levels. However, it's important to follow regulations and safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
| Last Updated | 2025-06-28 |
| River Levels | 2020 cfs (5.64 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 48% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 13316500 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Cherry Creek Campsite
|
||
Last Chance Campsite
|
||
Desperation Bar Campsite
|
||
Johnson Beach Campsite
|
||
Lower Sheep Creek Campsite
|
||
Middle Sheep Creek Campsite
|