*When making advance reservations at the Super 8, mention that you are on a Holiday Expedition trip and you will be extended a discounted rate on your room (see above).

BE SURE TO MAKE ADVANCE RESERVATIONS!

If you are camping out, there are several Forest Service campgrounds within 30 miles of Grangeville, Idaho.

If you have any questions prior to leaving for your trip, we welcome you to call our Salt Lake City office, Monday through Friday at 800-624-6323 (outside Utah), or 801-266-2087 (inside Utah). We're happy to take the time to answer your questions. You may also contact us by e-mail at Holiday@bikeraft.com.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS THE NIGHT BEFORE THE TRIP, OUR GRANGEVILLE HEADQUARTERS NUMBER IS: 208-983-1518.

Beginning of the trip: On the morning of your trip, plan to meet promptly at 8:00 a.m. (Pacific Time) at our headquarters. We will then take a thirty-minute van ride to the embarkation point, where we will transfer to the boats.

After the trip: We will return you to Lewiston or Grangeville depending on whether you have to catch a plane, bus, or get back to your car (it is a 2 & 1/2 hour van ride back to Grangeville). If you are from the Northwest, you may prefer to have your car waiting for you at the river take out point (it is a 2 hour drive from Lewiston to Spokane). If you would like this shuttle option there will be an additional charge of $80 per vehicle.

Fishing: You will need an Idaho fishing license, which you can get in Grangeville. A nonresident license is approximately $11.50 for the first day and $5.00 for each additional day. Junior fishing licenses are also available for children 14-17 years of age ($13.75/season). Trout and Bass fishing on the Lower Salmon is fair to excellent. There is also sturgeon to be caught and released. You will need to purchase your fishing license and gear before the morning of the trip. If you would like to obtain more information or secure your license in advance contact: Idaho Fish and Game, 800-554-8685.

Salmon River Weather: In May, early June and September, temperatures average between 55 and 80 degrees during the day and 40 to 60 degrees at night. In late June, July and August, daytime temperatures are 80 to 100 degrees, with nighttime temperatures 50 to 70 degrees. A thunderstorm or rainy day can happen and can cool temperatures considerably. With this in mind we recommend you have a rain suit, polypropylene underwear, (fleece top and pants are nice in cool weather too) and a light tent. If you reserved a rental unit with us when you booked your river trip, we will have a tent and rain gear for you.

Bugs, snakes, etc. are generally no problem. In fact, the lack of pesky insects is one of the reasons wilderness camping on the river is so pleasant. Any river trip, however, is subject to a localized insect hatch. Sometimes bees will be about, so make sure you have appropriate allergy medications with you. We rarely see any snakes, but if the thought of them bothers you, try sleeping on the beaches or in a tent instead of rocky or bushy areas.

Hiking is a highlight of the trip, however, it is strictly an optional activity. There are many interesting short hikes available. Hiking can be done in durable sneakers or lightweight hiking boots. Remember that hiking and other activities vary widely pending time, and what other plans are ahead for the day on the river.

Medical Emergencies: Our guides are trained in first-aid and carry first aid supplies only. REMEMBER to bring your own prescription medicines. ALERT our guides to any medical problems you might have such as diabetes or allergic reactions. Wilderness expeditions are a long way from hospitals, doctors, and pain-relieving medicines. Evacuations to modern medical care are uncertain, and protracted. In case of evacuation and/or medical treatment beyond first aid, expenses incurred are the responsibility of the participant.

Cancellation Policy: If cancellations are made prior to 90 days before the trip, monies will be refunded less a $50.00 service charge per person. If cancellations are made within 90 days and outside of 45 days of the trip date monies will be refunded less a $100.00 service charge per person. Cancellations made within 45 days of the trip date are non refundable. Prior to 45 days to trip date we will transfer reservations to another trip in the same year with a $25.00 service charge per person. All policies will be enforced and we strongly recommend trip cancellation insurance. Cancellation of a trip is very unlikely, but we reserve the right to cancel any trip due to river or weather conditions or the lack of sufficient reservations. A full refund will be made if such is the case.

Insurance: Medical and cancellation insurance on a vacation plan can be obtained from numerous insurance companies. We offer plans underwritten by TRAVEL GUARD that cover accident, baggage and cancellation claims. An application should be enclosed with this information package. We encourage all to take advantage of this coverage. This is available to American and Canadian citizens, as well as citizens of another country as long as you have a U.S. address. If you have questions give us a call. Also, if you are bringing expensive cameras, binoculars, or other items we suggest you have insurance coverage for them (commonly available through Homeowners Policies). In the event of a loss our insurance will not cover those items.

Tipping the guides: Many guests ask us if tipping is appropriate after the trip. If you feel the guides have been instrumental in your enjoyment of the trip, you may choose to direct a gratuity to the trip leader. He/She will then distribute it evenly to the other crewmembers. Of those that choose to tip, the average contribution amount ranges between $10.00 and $20.00 per guest, per day. However, the decision to tip is left to your sole discretion.

Beverages: We provide ice water, lemonade, fruit juices, two sodas per day per person and ample cooler space. If you choose to bring any specialty sodas and/or alcoholic beverages, we have no problem taking whatever you want to bring - within reason. Don't bring beer, wine coolers or sodas in glass containers. Wine packaged in a box is ideal. Mark beverages that you bring so they are packed on your boat. In Idaho, liquor is not sold on Sunday.

Things to see in the area: Wolf Center in Winchester - www.wolfcenter.org, Kooskia National Fish Hatchery, Whitebird Battleground Historical Site, Lewis & Clark Canoe Camp of Orofino, Nez Perce National Historical Park (East Kamiah Site), Nez Perce National Historical Park (Spaulding site near Lapwai)

Reading material you may enjoy:

River of No Return Carrey & Conley $15.95.

River of No Return can be ordered online at our e-store, or by sending the appropriate amount listed above plus $6.00 shipping and handling, to Holiday Expeditions, 544 East 3900 South, SLC, UT 84107. This is available within the U.S. only. If outside the U.S. additional shipping and handling charges will be added. You can call 801-266-2087 for rates.

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