Snake & Salmon confluence

November 21, 2013
Jon Rombach

Give this photo here a click to enlarge. What you see there is the rivers confluence where the Snake and Salmon Rivers collide—an awe-inspiring sight that highlights the raw beauty and power of rivers in Idaho. Taking pictures in remote areas with telephones. It’s all a little Captain Kirk-y.


For those curious about what is river confluence, it's the point where two or more rivers meet and combine their waters. In this case, it’s where the might of the snake river in oregon meets the heart of the idaho salmon river. This confluence is one of the scenic highlights you might see while enjoying one of our Whitewater Raftings trips through this majestic canyon country.

Journey Along the Snake & Salmon Rivers

This view captures a wide-angle take of the landscape around the lower Salmon River, and yes, that’s Mike ambling through the frame on the left—iphone distortion and all. The snake river idaho winds through rugged canyons, its course often traced on a snake river map washington or in paddlers’ minds as they explore the path of snake river through Oregon, Washington, and Idaho.


For reference, where does the snake river start and end? It begins in Wyoming and travels through Idaho before forming the border between Idaho and Oregon, and finally joins the Columbia River. For those keeping tabs, where does the snake river end? In the Columbia River in Washington state.

This is also prime territory for snake river salmon fishing, though the steelhead season has seen its ups and downs this year. Still, we hold out hope each time we cast.


Remember when a panorama involved taking a bunch of pictures left to right, getting your film developed and then taping the choppy results together? That was kind of fun, now that I think back.

Remember summer? Here’s a suntan comparison taken during an impromptu Winding Waters staff meeting at Terminal Gravity pub. Ed is in there. Brian Murphy. Baird. Silje. And, um . . . I guess the other arm was just an arm we found lying around.

Those arms really don’t look to tan, truth be told. But if I compare with my arm now – Gah! Blinded.

Journey Along the Snake & Salmon Rivers

This view captures a wide-angle take of the landscape around the lower salmon river, and yes, that’s Mike ambling through the frame on the left—iphone distortion and all. The snake river idaho winds through rugged canyons, its course often traced on a snake river map washington or in paddlers’ minds as they explore the path of snake river through Oregon, Washington, and Idaho.


For reference, where does the snake river start and end? It begins in Wyoming and travels through Idaho before forming the border between Idaho and Oregon, and finally joins the Columbia River. For those keeping tabs, where does the snake river end? In the Columbia River in Washington state.


This is also prime territory for snake river salmon fishing, though the steelhead season has seen its ups and downs this year. Still, we hold out hope each time we cast.

And on a recent-ish fall launch for steelhead. There’s Todd on the right, next to Morgan.

On the subject of steelhead, the catching has been slim. Season got off to a fairly rip-roaring start but has sure quieted down. Went out last Friday with Cam Scott and he broke the spell with two hatchery males.

Here’s an action shot.

Bonus activity this week: Name this exotic creature that has bright markings evocative of some African savannah dwelling gazelle like thing.

Ah, it’s just a whitetail deer that was in my yard. But, man, that is quite the colorful coat there.

The Rivers of Idaho: Wild, Scenic, and Unforgettable

You’ll find an incredible range of Idaho rivers flowing through mountain valleys, canyons, and open ranges. From the Clearwater River in Washington to the Idaho Snake River, this state is home to some of the West’s best waters for recreation.


Use a lower Salmon River map to trace your next route or daydream about the elevation of Salmon, ID, a charming town near many rafting put-ins. Whether you're drawn by the river flows in idaho or seeking a river of idaho to explore, there's no shortage of adventure.


Rafting the Seasons: What to Wear & Pack

Spring and Winter Rafting

If you're considering rafting in april, layering is key. Yes, there’s even winter rafting, and those who try it love the solitude and crisp air of a winter river rafting trip.


Wondering what to wear white water rafting? You’ll want proper river rafting attire like a dry suit or wetsuit, especially in colder months. And yes—do you wear a wetsuit white water rafting? Often, yes! It's smart, especially early or late in the season.


Don’t forget a white water rafting helmet, water rafting safety equipment, and shoes designed for rafting—what shoes for white water rafting depends on water temps and terrain.


Warm Weather Essentials

When the weather warms, your water rafting outfit can be lighter. Still, always check the conditions. If you're new, read our tips for whitewater rafting, tips for raft safety, or explore our raft beginners guide.


What should I wear white water rafting and what to bring water rafting are common questions. The answer? Quick-dry clothing, sun protection, and a sense of adventure.


Whether you’re chasing the thrill of whitewater rafting, mapping out the lower salmon river, or wondering what to wear for rafting, we’ve got you covered.


Curious what makes Winding Waters rafting trips so memorable? Our guests share their thrilling experiences—check out our Google Business Profile Reviews!