Sweep Boat Specials
Offered exclusively by KingFisher River Company
Sweep Boat Trips On The Salmon River
KingFisher River Company keeps a rare piece of Idaho history alive through sweepboating on the Salmon River. Originating in the prospector era, these massive wooden flatboats—known as scows—were once the workhorses of the canyon, using oversized "sweeps" to navigate heavy loads of mining gear, livestock and people through the steep terrain.
Today, KingFisher transforms this rugged heritage into a high-end adventure with a modern inflatable pontoon style Sweep Boat. A sweep boat offers a spacious, luxurious alternative to traditional rafting, allowing you to experience the thrill of the river with a level of comfort and historical charm you won't find anywhere else.
Specials
Early Bird
Tailor your morning float to your favorite stretch of river, your lodging location, or somewhere entirely new. We can be the first on the water to watch the herons shake off the morning dew, or simply ease into the day at your pace.
Relax on our comfortable padded bench seating and enjoy the scenery with bottomless press coffee and fresh, local pastries.
(Morning Float) depart apon request 5am-noon
$150 per person
High Noon
Find your way to a sun-drenched swimming hole or retreat to the perfect shade tree to watch the river roll by. Dig your toes into the sand with a cold drink and listen to the midday sizzle of the grill. We provide the ultimate Salmon River escape.
Tailor your summer day to your pace—pair a hot lunch by a cool spring with the thrill of the rapids or the rare, quiet stillness of a peaceful stretch of water. It’s the kind of uneventful perfection we never see enough of.
(Midday float) departs apon request 11 am-3pm
$165 per person
Nighthawk
Indulge in a premier open-air dining experience where the scenery is as refined as the menu. Whether you are chartering a romantic four-course dinner for two or hosting a private riverside party, we bring white-linen service to the rugged beauty of the Salmon River.
Each gourmet meal is prepared fresh on-site, featuring a revolving seasonal menu. With customizable launch/ take- out times and locations, every evening is a unique opportunity to gather with friends—old or new—on the riverbank.
(Dinner Float) depart and takeout apon request 5pm-1 am
$185 per person
Day Trips
Wild and scenic
Experience the best of both worlds aboard a sweep boat, where you can navigate thrilling rapids in complete comfort. Relax on a padded bench seating and enjoy the scenery in your everyday attire. "no need for splash jackets and wetsuits"
Tailor your adventure to your preference: choose the most dry and comfortable ride through the whitewater section of the Salmon River Canyon, or opt for a flat water drift along the tranquil Upper Salmon.
When: March--November
Where: Salmon Canyon/Whitewater or Upper Salmon/Flatwater
Trip length: Full Day-Approx. 12 miles or Half Day 6 miles
Class/Level: Class I-III
Departing time: 9:00 AM from (location differs)
Ending time: Full Day-5pm
Time on water: 4 to 6 hours
Age restrictions: 3+
Includes: Lunch and Shuttle
Cost: $185.00/person
Charter: $1,850.00 for the boat *10 people max
Multi-Day Trips
Lodge to Lodge
Experience the Salmon River’s 'River of No Return' from the unique vantage point of a traditional sweepboat. Exclusive to KingFisher River Company, this journey carries you through dramatic canyons and historic townscapes with the added comfort of indoor amenities and cushioned bench seating.
Whether you choose a two-day escape or a six-day expedition, this trip offers a rare balance of scenic adventure and refined luxury. Book the only experience of its kind and discover the Salmon River in total comfort.
When: March--November
Where: Upper Salmon (Kilpatrick Put in)/ Salmon Canyon (Corn Creek Take out)
Trip length: Approximately 100 miles Max
Class/Level: Class I-III
Departing time: 9am Day- 1
Ending time: 10am Day-
Time on water: 2 - 5 days
Age restrictions: 3+
Includes: Meals
Cost: $375.00 per person per day
Charter: $3,750.00 for the boat *10 people total- per day
(Accommodation charged upon booking)
(Customizable w/ or without select meals)
KingFisher Campout
After a perfect day on the water, retreat to "Hyclon Hallow," our premier KingFisher basecamp. We pair the rugged beauty of the river with top-of-the-line equipment, including premium tents, plush sleeping pads, and full dining setups to ensure your comfort in the wild.
Let our expert guides navigate you through exhilarating whitewater and serene canyons before they craft gourmet Dutch-oven meals by the fire. Beyond the adventure, KingFisher is dedicated to bringing the river to life, offering deep insights into the archaeological, geological, and natural wonders that define these ancient landscapes.
When: March–-November
Where: Upper Salmon (Kilpatrick Put in)/ Salmon Canyon (Corn Creek Take out)
Trip length: Approximately 100 miles Max
Class/Level: Class I-III
Departing time: 9am Day- 1
Ending time: 10am Day-2-6
Time on water: 2 - 6 days
Age restrictions: 3+
Includes:
Accommodation (sleeping bags, pads, tents), Meals
Cost: $400.00 per person per day
Charter:
$4,000.00 for the boat *10 people total- per day
A Historic Boat Built For The Salmon River
WHAT IS A SWEEP BOAT?
A Salmon River sweep boat is a large, flat-bottomed scow designed to carry people and gear through long stretches of water. Instead of paddling, it’s guided using long oars called “sweeps,” allowing the guide to control the boat with steady, powerful movements.
Originally used during the mining era to move heavy loads through the Salmon River canyon, these boats were built for stability and efficiency. Today, they offer a more comfortable way to travel the river while still running the same stretches of water.
