Follow a trail through time and discover a mosaic of western history in this enchanting central Idaho town, where you’ll find popular fishing spots and wild rivers.
Huddled in a valley surrounded by careening mountain ranges, Salmon is a picturesque little town interwoven with fascinating stories. Learn about the Lewis and Clark expedition that passed by here in the early 1800s with the aid of a local Lemhi Shoshone woman, Sacajawea. Go fishing in the mighty Salmon and Lemhi rivers or explore the magnificent tracts of wilderness that surround the pretty town.
Learn about Salmon’s heritage at the Lemhi County Historical Museum and find out about the mining and logging industries that shaped the town in its early days.
Uncover tales of adventure as you explore downtown Salmon, the home of Sacagawea. This intrepid Shoshone woman accompanied Lewis and Clark on their travels from St. Louis, Missouri to the Pacific Ocean, assisting the explorers as they moved across the country.
Visit the Sacajawea Interpretive, Educational and Cultural Center to find out about the region’s rich historical significance and the expedition that traversed the county and beyond. Historical displays and interpretive signage help to illuminate the story for visitors of all ages. Explore the 71-acre (28.7-hectare) park and bring a picnic to enjoy under the trees.
Explore more of the surrounding area’s breathtaking scenery with a trip to the Frank Church—River of No Return Wilderness Area, one of the largest tracts of designated wilderness in the lower 48 states. Keen fishers flock to the Salmon River in fall to experience the famous salmon run. Hook salmon, trout and steelhead in the powerful river with a backdrop of the majestic mountain ranges that encircle the river valley. Whitewater rafters will love the turbulent rapids that churn through sections of the river.
Salmon is located on Idaho’s eastern edge, near the border of Montana. The Lemhi County Airport is a short drive south of downtown Salmon. Alternatively, fly into the domestic airport in Idaho Falls or larger airports in Montana. Visit the town in spring and fall to enjoy pleasant temperatures and drier weather. The town has a selection of hotels, inns and picturesque mountain lodgings.
