Salmon River
Salmon River is a major North American waterway known for wild salmon migrations, deep canyon landscapes, and minimal development. It flows from Idaho into Oregon, offering activities like float trips, backcountry hiking, and tributary fishing.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Pacific Northwest |
| Subregion | Northern Rockies |
| Country | United StatesCanada |
| State | IdahoOregonBritish ColumbiaWashington |
| County | Valley CountyCuster CountyNez Perce CountyWallowa County |
| District | Salmon River Basin |
| Timezone | AmericaBoise |
| Latitude | 45.5 |
| Longitude | -114.7 |
| Maps |
7:15 PM LOCAL TIMESalmon River carves a dramatic plunge from high-altitude plateaus into massive canyons through Idaho and Oregon, earning renown for statewide salmon and steelhead runs. Its turquoise water courses through remote wilderness areas, framed by rugged peaks and scant settlements. Key sections vary from swift mountain streams and narrows to wide, calm reaches suitable for float trips; access is often via long trailheads and limited paved roads. The basin supports a range of ecosystems—from alpine tundra and mature forests to sage-steppe—serving as critical habitat for Oncorhynchus tshawytscha (Chinook salmon). Visitors come for multi-day rafting, backcountry camping, and to experience the region’s geological highlights and native cultural sites; infrastructure remains sparse outside main trailheads. Its rugged isolation makes it a destination for those seeking pristine wilderness, operational safety requires proper planning, and legal regulations are strict—check regional agencies before setting out.
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