Picture links at bottom for each day of the trip
CKAPCO Middle Fork Salmon
2009
Well, it was just another fantastic
trip down the Middle Fork Salmon
River for 20 of us , 3 in ww kayaks and the rest using
paddle rafts and inflatable kayaks. This year we started from the top, which
meant seeing the Alpine sections top 25 miles, but requiring us to paddle 106
miles in 5 and a half days, (12 miles day one, 20 day 2, 20 day 3, 23 day 4, 16
day 5 and the rest day 6.) This isn’t as laborious as it sounds, as the river
is moving at 3.5 mph. The water level was higher than usual and the weather was
great. We all slept in the tents until day 3 as the air temp at night was in the
low 50’s then warmed up as we dropped elevation. The days were sunny and
comfortable mid 70’s and then 80 with very low humidity (literally no sweat) and
no skeeters either. The food was as good, or better than ever, salmon, Thai
chicken, pork tenderloin, lasagna, steaks etc for dinner, always salad , Idaho
spuds or rice pilaf etc . Breakfasts, eggs to order, bacon, sausage, blueberry
pancakes, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola. We had spacious camps every night with
hikes, fishing, or just chilling with a libation of choice, wine, beer and soft
drinks provided. No matter what craft you were in/on it was exciting and fun.
All the participants had at least our Combo class training and some were more
advanced. It was a first time experience for most. Our oldest was 75 and
youngest on this trip was 15. It was amusing to see the two of them playing
cards together with age not a factor. Take a look at the pics online as below
(if you are inclined) they are by the day and come see the show at REI or
elsewhere this winter.
2010 already has 8 or 9 committed so
space will be limited to another 12 (July 30 – Aug. 4) call me. The MF
Salmon is the best river trip in the USA
and an unforgettable vacation. Best, Mike
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