The Sunbeam section (Day Stretch) near Stanley offers accessible Class II-III whitewater perfect for families and beginners. This scenic day trip features fun rapids, roadside access, beautiful mountain scenery, and a stop at Sunbeam Hot Springs. Excellent introduction to Idaho whitewater with easy Highway 75 access.
Snapshot
Important information for this section of river
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Water Level
FAQ: What's the current water level for Salmon River - Sunbeam Section?
78 CFS
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FAQ: What's the ideal range for this section of river?
800 – 3,000 CFS
Rapids
Community-contributed. Conditions change with flow. Scout everything.
No rapids logged yet for this river.
Boat Launches
Community-contributed. Conditions change with flow. Scout everything.
No boat launches logged yet for this river.
Camps
Community-contributed. Conditions change with flow. Scout everything.
No camps logged yet for this river.
Outfitters
Community-contributed. Conditions change with flow. Scout everything.
No outfitters logged yet for this river.
Common Questions
What paddlers most often want to know about Salmon River - Sunbeam Section.
What class of rapids does the Sunbeam section of the Salmon River have?
The Sunbeam section of the Salmon River near Stanley, Idaho runs Class II–III, offering fun, splashy rapids with clear views of the Sawtooth Mountains and easy roadside access from Highway 75.
Is the Salmon River Sunbeam section suitable for families and beginners?
Yes — the Sunbeam section is one of Idaho's best introductory whitewater runs. The Class II–III character is accessible for families with children and beginners paddling with experienced companions or commercial guides.
Do I need a permit to run the Sunbeam section of the Salmon River?
No permit is required to run the Sunbeam section of the Salmon River. Multiple put-ins and take-outs along Highway 75 make it an easy, flexible day trip near Stanley.
What is Sunbeam Hot Springs near the Salmon River?
Sunbeam Hot Springs is a roadside geothermal site on the banks of the Salmon River near the Sunbeam section put-in. The hot springs flow directly into the cold river, creating a popular soaking spot before or after a paddling day.
What are the ideal flow levels for the Sunbeam section of the Salmon River?
The Sunbeam section runs best between 800 and 3,000 CFS. Flows in this range deliver entertaining Class II–III rapids while keeping the river safe and accessible for less experienced paddlers.
Weather Forecast
What's the daily forecast at the put-in for Salmon River - Sunbeam Section?