Americans love adventure trips, according to findings in a recent survey. In fact, this type of vacation is now tied as the third-most popular choice, more sought-after than city breaks abroad or traditional package holidays.
It’s easy to see why, of course. Active getaways create unforgettable memories, help people disconnect from stress, and bring friends and families closer together. And when it comes to white water rafting, few places compare to the Middle Fork of the Salmon River in Idaho.
It’s one of the most scenic and exciting river trips in North America. At Far and Away Adventures, we take it to the next level. Our luxury wilderness experiences combine the thrill of rafting with personalized service, comfort, and style. This is adventure, refined, and waiting for you.
A post by Outside Magazine, citing a report by The Outdoor Industry Association, reveals that Americans spend $646 billion yearly on outdoor activities.
One of the most popular ways they explore nature is through family river trips. These trips are fun, active, and a great way to spend time together.
You might be thinking about planning your first one. Maybe you have seen photos or heard friends talk about it.
But with so many choices, it’s hard to know where to start or what is right for your family. Keep reading as this blog explores the best family river trips for unforgettable fun, comfort, and adventure.
Middle Fork of the Salmon River
The Middle Fork of the Salmon River in Idaho offers a rare mix of remote wilderness and quiet comfort. Flowing through the Frank Church Wilderness, this protected river takes you deep into nature. It offers many incredible activities that you and your family can enjoy together, creating a relaxing and unforgettable outdoor experience.
Whitewater Rafting
The Middle Fork delivers over 100 miles of clear water and exciting rapids, perfect for families seeking safe adventures. Rapids range from playful Class II to thrilling Class IV, keeping the ride exciting but manageable. At Far and Away Adventures, we provide fully guided family rafting trips–no gear worries, no experience needed.
Our expert guides handle every detail, so you can relax and enjoy the journey. Between rapids, the river offers calm stretches for floating, laughing, and swimming. It is a chance to unplug and bond as a family while gliding through deep canyons and spotting wildlife along the shore.
Hiking and Exploring
Along the riverbanks, hidden trails and quiet paths lead to natural treasures. Families can hike to:
- Warm hot springs
- Secret waterfalls
- Ancient rock shelters
- Peaceful meadows filled with wildflowers
- Scenic overlooks with canyon views
Some trails take just a few minutes, perfect for young kids or grandparents. Others go deeper into peaceful forests and canyons for those who want more.
These small hikes let you stretch, explore, and enjoy different views of the land. Every stop adds something special to your journey downriver.
Fly Fishing
For those who love to fish–or want to learn–the Middle Fork is a dream location. Its crystal clear waters are home to native cutthroat trout, and the quiet surroundings make it perfect for relaxing with a rod in hand.
Kids can catch their first fish while parents enjoy casting peacefully in the early morning light. Our guides help beginners and seasoned anglers alike. It is a great way to slow down, connect with nature, and share a skill across generations.
The Owyhee River
The Owyhee River winds through the remote canyons of southwestern Idaho. Known for its towering cliffs, desert views, and calm waters, it feels like a private escape.
Few travelers ever reach this hidden gem, making it perfect for families seeking quiet and comfort in nature. The river flows through volcanic gorges and offers stops at:
- Natural Hot Springs
- Fossil Sites
- Dramatic Viewpoints
- Ancient Rock Formations
- Quiet Beaches for Swimming
You will float through a landscape that feels untouched by time. Kids and adults can explore, splash, and relax in wide-open spaces. If you are searching for river adventures for families with beauty, calm, and a bit of mystery, the Owyhee River gives you just that.
Bruneau River
The Bruneau River flows through the remote canyons of southwestern Idaho, carving a path through high desert and volcanic rock. Exploring it can be a great experience for you and your family. With dramatic scenery and a mix of calm and wild waters, it offers one of the best family river tours in the West.
Stunning Canyon Scenery
As you float down the Bruneau, you will be surrounded by the following:
- Towering cliffs
- Rugged canyons
- Wide desert skies
- Volcanic rock walls
- Hidden side caves
The landscape feels like something out of a movie-raw, colorful, and almost untouched. Lava rock walls rise high on both sides, creating a natural fortress around your raft.
Families will love pausing to take photos or simply look up in awe. If you are searching for river adventures for families filled with beauty and wonder, the Bruneau delivers.
Wildlife Watching
The Bruneau Canyon is home to an amazing mix of wildlife. Keep your eyes open for golden eagles soaring overhead or bighorn sheep climbing the rocky walls.
You might also spot deer drinking from the river or hear coyotes in the distance at night. For kids, it is like a real-life nature show. Watching animals in the wild helps everyone feel connected to the land and makes the adventure even more memorable.
Whitewater Thrills
The Bruneau River mixes calm flows with short, splashy rapids. The whitewater here is exciting but safe for families, especially with expert guides. It is perfect for first-time rafters or kids looking for a fun thrill.
Rapids are spread out, giving you time to enjoy each one without feeling rushed. These moments of excitement are often the highlight of the best family river tours–full of laughter, teamwork, and fun.
Relaxing Flatwater and Campsites
Between rapids, the Bruneau offers long stretches of gentle water where you can float, swim, or just relax. Campsites along the riverbank are quiet, scenic, and perfect for stargazing.
Evenings bring time to unwind, share stories, and enjoy meals by the fire. It is where river adventures for families turn into lasting memories.
Family River Trips: Your Guide to Unforgettable Adventures
Family river trips offer a great way to connect with nature and each other. Whether you want thrilling rapids, calm waters, or stunning views, these trips create lasting memories. From the Middle Fork of the Salmon River to the Owyhee and Bruneau Rivers, each journey holds its own magic.
At Far and Away Adventures, we craft trips made just for you. Our crew includes Hanna Curran, who has guided luxury river trips on the Middle Fork of the Salmon, Owyhee, and Bruneau Rivers since 2015.
Her deep passion for the land, fishing skills, and love of meditation make every trip special. Use our Trip Creator to plan your perfect river adventure today.