Solitude River Trips FAQs

Q: When is the best time to float the Middle Fork?
We feel that each month (June, July & August) and each week is best in its own way, and yet there are some generalities that can be made. Early June trips encounter the biggest and fastest whitewater, mainly due to run off from the melting winter snow pack. By the middle of June the run-off has peaked and the river begins to drop a little each day. No children under age 12 are allowed on our June trips, however, there are exceptions, and people should be in good physical condition for the early June trips. July trips feature hotter weather and while the river is lower than in June, the levels are challenging and quite exciting. Children age 8 or older can be on trips during the first two weeks of July. By mid July and throughout August and September the Middle Fork is at its "summer prime": hot weather, warmer water, and lower levels ideal for fantastic fly fishing results. Children as young as 6 are welcome on these trips.

Q: How experienced is your company?
Solitude River Trips has been operating on rivers in Idaho and Oregon since 1972. The ages of our guides range from the mid 20's to the mid 50's, with 5-35 years of experience guiding on the Middle Fork. Solitude's owner, Al, began guiding on the Middle Fork in 1974, and is on every trip. Our guides are cheerful, courteous, professional, and attentive to personal service. We call our guides "personal service guides." They go out of their way to assist you in anyway they can, from adding historical insights to just plain helping someone in or out of a boat.

Q: How is the camping? I have never camped before.
Camping with Solitude is easy and fun! It's our goal to make your time in camp your time to spend doing whatever you want, be it hiking, fishing, socializing, reading, or relaxing. We'll do the camp chores for you! Each day a large supply boat (called a sweep boat) forges ahead of the group and that crew sets up camp. When you get to camp, your tent has been set up for you. Sturdy chairs and tables and a drink cooler are at every meal, every camp. For nighttime comfort, Solitude provides each guest a plush, warm sleeping bag and a thick super comfortable sleeping pad and pillow. In the morning, the sweep guides will take down your tent, and proceed downthe river to make our next camp.

Q: What do I need to bring from home?
Only some various clothes, your toiletries, and on-going medications. In our literature is a complete list of what you can and should bring along with a list of what Solitude will bring and supply you with for the trip. Various clothing and river gear can be rented or purchased in Stanley, Idaho, where you'll stay the night before your river trip. Obtain Fishing License in advance Idaho Fish & Game at 1-800-554-8685.

Q: What about toilet facilities and sanitation?
Camp toilets are either a Forest Service two sided pit toilet with seat and lid or our own porta potty. A hand wash system is always available. Quick hot baths are available at each camp at pre-determined times, as using soap in the river, streams and hot springs is not allowed. There is no soap made that is biodegradable. However, soap and shampoo can be used above the high water mark.

Q: What is the food like?
Solitude has built a reputation for outstanding food, and guests never go away hungry. There is always plenty! Our meals feature fresh vegetables, lunch and dinner salads, salmon, chicken, New York steaks, two inch thick pork chops grilled over mountain mahogany coals, and Dutch oven cooking (biscuits, rolls, desserts) that is second to none. Let us know if you have a special diet and we'll do our best.

Q: References?
By all means ask. We will be more than happy to give you the names of some past guests to call. We are the ONLY company on the Middle Fork that is endorsed by Orvis, the very prestigious fly fishing and outdoor clothing company.