Discover Salmon, Idaho
Welcome to Salmon, Idaho – A Place to Call Home
Nestled in the heart of Central Idaho’s rugged mountains, the City of Salmon is a vibrant small town of 3,241 residents with a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a strong sense of community. Located along the legendary Salmon River – "The River of No Return", our town offers a perfect balance of outdoor adventure, historical significance, and close-knit rural charm.
A Town Rooted in History
Salmon’s history dates back centuries, deeply intertwined with mining, lumbering, and family ranching traditions. It also holds a profound connection to the Lewis and Clark Expedition, as the explorers crossed the Continental Divide into the Salmon Valley in 1805. Here, they were met by the AgaiDika Shoshone people, the tribe of Sacajawea, who provided crucial supplies and guidance for their journey westward.
A Community of Excellence
Salmon is more than just a beautiful place—it’s a community recognized for its strong values and commitment to its residents:
- Idaho Heritage City & Community of Promise (Recognized by the Association of Idaho Cities, 2004)
- One of the 100 Best Communities for Young People (Honored by America’s Promise Alliance, founded by Colin Powell)
- Great Strides Award (Awarded by the Northwest Area Foundation in 2006 for economic development initiatives)
Live, Work, and Play in Salmon
Outdoor Adventure Awaits
Salmon is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, offering:
✔ World-class rafting and fishing along the Salmon River
✔ Hiking and camping in the stunning Salmon-Challis National Forest
✔ Hunting, horseback riding, and winter recreation for all skill levels
A Thriving, Supportive Community
Salmon embraces small-town charm with big-hearted people. Whether you're raising a family, pursuing a career, or enjoying retirement, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere with strong community engagement, quality schools, and local businesses.
A Healthcare Hub for Rural Idaho
Steele Memorial Medical Center plays a vital role in keeping Salmon and the surrounding region healthy, providing high-quality, compassionate care to this remote yet thriving community.
We invite you to explore all that Salmon, Idaho, has to offer—whether you're considering a move, a new job, or a visit, you'll find a remarkable place to live, work, and enjoy life.
For more information about our community and opportunities at Steele Memorial Medical Center, visit our Careers Page.
Discover why Lewis and Clark made this valley a "must see."
Outdoor Recreation
Backcountry Tours and Horseback Riding
Hunting
River/Fishing Trips
- Aggipah River Trips
- Arctic Creek Lodge & Tours
- Idaho Adventures
- Kookaburra Rafting Trips
- Mountain River Outfitters
- North Fork Guides
- Rawhide Outfitters
- Salmon River Tours
- Silver Cloud Expeditions
Arts and Culture
Area Activities
Local Schools
- Salmon School District #291
- Pioneer Elementary School
- Salmon Middle School
- Salmon High School
- Salmon Alternative High School
- Upper Carmen Public Charter School
Regional Schools
- Boise Bible College
- Boise State University
- Brigham Young University - Idaho
- College of Southern Idaho
- College of Western Idaho
- Eastern Idaho Technical College
- Idaho State University
- Lewis-Clark State College
- New Saint Andrews College
- North Idaho College
- Northwest Nazarene University
- The College of Idaho
- Lemhi Education Project
- University of Idaho
- University of Montana Western
- The University of Montana-Missoula
Real Estate Links
- Main Street Realty
- Mountain West Real Estate
- Robie Real Estate
- Salmon Real Estate
- Susan Schaffner Real Estate