FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 13302500 (Salmon River at Salmon), not a guidebook average. At a typical 2,500 cfs, a raft drifts about 3.4 mph here. Higher flow speeds you up; skinny water slows you down. Kayaks run faster than the current, tubes slower. Optional fishing adds 35 minutes per mile.
The Salmon River (Salmon) listing covers 22 river miles across 1 access-to-access stretch (Class I–II). Times in the table are typical raft hours at that reference flow. Open the live calculator for today's CFS, sunset take-out, water temperature, and rain/UV at the put-in.
See today's Salmon River (Salmon) float time
Float stretches on the Salmon River (Salmon)
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salmon (Island Park ramp) → North Fork | 22 mi | Class I–II | ~6 hr 28 min | Highway 93 shuttle. Big water, easy gradient. North Fork is where the Middle Fork comes in and the wilderness section begins. |
How we time this river
Speed scales with discharge using hydraulic geometry v ∝ Q0.34, calibrated to this gauge. That is why a 1,000 cfs afternoon is a different day than 3,000 cfs runoff. Always scout, wear a PFD, and check Idaho Fish and Game for closures. Gauge page: USGS 13302500.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Salmon (Island Park ramp) to North Fork on the Salmon River (Salmon)?
About 6 hr 28 min in a raft at a typical 2500 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Highway 93 shuttle. Big water, easy gradient. North Fork is where the Middle Fork comes in and the wilderness section begins.
What USGS gauge is used for Salmon River (Salmon) float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 13302500 (Salmon River at Salmon) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 2500 cfs drift of about 3.4 mph.
Is the Salmon River (Salmon) a good tube float?
Tubes lag the current (we use a 0.72× speed multiplier). On Class I–II stretches tubes can work at moderate flows; skip high water and always wear a PFD.