Frequently Asked Questions
What beverages does MFRE include? » We offer drinking water at all times as each raft has a water cooler as well as Ultima Electrolyte and Coconut beverage crystals during lunch. For evening we provide soda such as LaCroix and other low sugar drinks. If you would like Coke or Diet Coke you can bring that with you and we can make sure they are cold for you. We provide limited (1-2 glasses) red and white wine in the evenings. We do not provide beer and you are free to bring some, just make sure beer is in cans only. For those who want more than a couple of glasses of wine at night, you can bring more wine if you wish and glass is ok. Hard liquor can be brought in glass as well.
How do I pack while on the trip? » Travel with Duffel Bags only. You will transfer all of your personal clothing and sleep kit (sleeping bag, pad and pillow we provide) into two dry bags (approximately 28″L X 13″W X 13”H). PLEASE DO NOT BRING SUITCASES for this trip! We also give you a small dry bag for personal items during the day, like camera, rain shell, sunscreen etc. If you have extra luggage and computers, it can be stored in your car trunk during the trip.
Where do a store valuables? » You will want to have ID and a major credit card with you in the event of an emergency evacuation due to injury. This never happens, but we want you to be prepared. You can place in a double ziplock and place in the bottom of your dry bag for the trip. Since jewelry is a potential “loss” item on your river trip, we recommend you leave all valuables at home. You may want to have cash available for a tip for your guides or to purchase items immediately following the river trip. No watches are recommended as this is “river time”.
What about the fishing? » Fly fishing and spin fishing are both common on the Middle Fork and River of No Return. For spin fishing 4 to 6 lb. test line is recommended with swivels and bright colored weight lures. Idaho regulations require barbless hooks or hooks with the barbs bent down on the Middle Fork. Fishing on the Middle Fork is catch and release only. Please bring collapsible poles and rigid pole cases. Please see recommended tackle in the fishing page of our website. For complete fishing regulations please contact: Idaho Department of Fish and Game or 208-334-3700.
What about the Toilet Facilities? »We bring along aluminum porta-potties that are placed in an isolated and secluded spot with amazing views of the river canyon.
What are the Sleeping Kits MFRE provides? » We provide large 20F rectangular sleeping bags, a Kelty camp pillow, and a 2″ thick sleeping pad. We also provide Kelty Gunnison 4 man tents for 1 or 2 people. Singles go at no extra charge. If you are concerned about sleeping on the ground let us know and we can provide a cot for the trip at no extra charge.
How is the Hiking? »There are many hiking opportunities on the trip. The hikes can be short side canyon hikes with river shoes or longer hikes with lightweight hiking shoes from camp.
Will I get to do all the river craft options? »We rotate people each day into different river craft if they want. You can choose, if appropriate, between the oar boats, paddle raft, inflatable kayaks, and SUP (stand up paddle) boards. If you want to go for it, try the Inflatable Kayaks or Paddle Board. If you feel like relaxing then an oar raft is more suitable.
Who are these trips appropriate for? »As long as people are in good physical condition and can swim, we can take you on these trips. Our minimum age is 5 years old on the Main and 6 years old on the Middle Fork in July- Sept. Age is 12 minimum in June and all participants in June must be ready for bigger whitewater and colder water temperatures.
How much do I tip the guides? » Your guides will make every effort to see that each of your adventures is enjoyable and successful. Gratuities for guides are appropriate, greatly appreciated and at your discretion, as a gesture of thanks for their professionalism and service. A suggested per-person guideline is around 10-20%+ of the total trip price. The common practice is to give the gratuity to the trip leader at the end of the trip. In trips where there are multiple guides, the gratuity will be split amongst all of them. Please make all checks out to “cash” and not MFRE.
