FAQ's

How do I know that K-Bear River Adventures, Inc. is a legitimate Outfitter?
Like all outfitters in Idaho, we are licensed and bonded through the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Licensing Board. We also hold a special use permit from the U.S.D.A. Forest Service. As a condition of both the Licensing Board and the Federal permitting process, we are required to carry liability insurance. Enforcement officers routinely inspect our operations to ensure the use of properly trained and licensed guides, high quality equipment, the presence of first-aid and safety supplies, and proper training credentials. Idaho continues to set the highest standards in the outdoor adventure industry for all of our outfitters and guides.

I have never been rafting before. Can I still join a trip?
You sure can. Our trips are perfect for first timers and experts alike. The unique resources of the Salmon River allow us to satisfy all boaters; from beginners to the most advanced.

How big are the rapids?
The section of river that we run is loaded with class III and some class IV rapids. All of the rapids are fun and very manageable with our professional river guides.

Are children allowed on your trips?
Yes. The Salmon River Canyon is an incredible playground. Most children from 7 years old on up are big enough to enjoy a K-Bear Adventure. Our guides are hand picked for their ability to connect with kids. We always plan fun activities for kids that add extra magic and special memories for all of our young adventurers.

What type of boats do you have? How many people will be in each boat?
We use three different styles of boats. Oar boats typically hold 4-6 guests and are powered and controlled entirely by the guide. Paddle rafts hold 6-8 guests that want to paddle. A guide captains the team of paddlers with voice commands to maneuver the raft through the rapids. Inflatable kayaks are 1 or 2 person boats that willing guests can paddle without the aid of a guide. On typical trips, guests will get an opportunity to try any or all of the different styles of boats.

Do I really need raingear?
Yes. Although the weather is usually sunny and warm, a brief rainstorm could make your trip wet and miserable without the proper clothing. Good raingear is cheap insurance and also acts as a good windbreaker.

What is a lodge-to-lodge trip?
On lodge trips, our guests enjoy the fun rapids and awesome scenery each day, and relax in a different rustic wilderness lodge each night. We work with the finest lodges on the river to provide our guests with clean comfortable rooms and delicious home cooked meals.

What if I don't know how to swim?
Some of our trips are appropriate for non-swimmers if you are comfortable around water. Give us a call and we can discuss which trips might accommodate you.

If I am flying into Idaho, where do I fly in and out of?
Boise, Idaho. We will take care of your flights from Boise to Salmon and from the river back to Boise. Or you can fly to Spokane, Washington and ride to the river with us. We leave Spokane at 7:00 a.m. the day before your launch date. We will return you to Spokane at the end of the trip.

When do I need to be to Boise?
Early afternoon, the day before your launch date.

What kind of bathroom facilities will there be?
We use the best portable bathroom facility available. Our state-of-art system is fresh and clean at each camp and placed in a secluded location. A shelter designed just for this purpose is used to make it both private and comfortable. A sanitary hand wash station is always available near the bathroom. We also provide "sun showers" for guests that want to freshen up. On lodge-to-lodge trips, modern bathroom facilities, including hot showers, are available each night.

What do I need to bring?
Please refer to the enclosed gear list. It specifies what K-Bear River Adventures provides and what gear you should bring to make your trip comfortable.

What is the maximum group size?
We can accommodate up to 24 guests. However, most of our trips have 14-18 guests.

How many hours are spent on the river each day?
Typically, we spend between 4 and 7 hours on the river each day. Our itinerary has to be flexible due to constantly changing water and weather conditions. We always allow time for hiking, exploring, wildlife viewing, fishing, and other off-river activities.

What type of food will we eat? Will we have more than one choice for each meal?
We serve delicious healthful gourmet meals. For specific meals refer to our food and camps page. We usually offer several choices for the main entrée and provide several side dishes and fresh salad with each meal as well as hot desserts and homemade breads. If you have special dietary needs, please let us know well in advance.

Do you supply tents, sleeping bags and pads?
Yes. We supply fresh laundered sleeping bags, sturdy tents, and thick, comfortable pads at no extra charge. You are welcome to bring your own sleeping bag if it will compact into a small stuff bag. Bringing a small camp pillow is also a good idea.

Can I fish during the trip?
Yes. A valid Idaho fishing license is required and can be obtained, along with a copy of the current regulations, at most sporting good stores in Boise or Salmon. Fishing is fantastic in August and September for Rainbow and Cutthroat trout. We recommend fly-fishing. Some good patterns to bring along are: Renegade, Adams, Hoppers, Buck-tailed Caddis, Humpy, and Royal Coachman in small sizes #12-16.

Will we see wildlife on this trip?
We usually see lots of wildlife. Everything from golden eagles and river otters to black bears, elk, and mountain sheep are common.

What will we have to drink?
Fresh cool drinking water is available at all times. We also have a limited supply of soda pop, fruit juice, beer, wine, milk, gourmet coffee and tea. We offer an alcohol free trip option for charter groups upon request.