Idaho whitewater rafting.
The Middle Fork of the Salmon River.

In spite of our ever-heating apprehensions and pleas for rain, wildfires gathered enough strength by mid-August to necessitate a Middle Fork closure by the Forest Service. As floater traffic instantly stopped, the reality of drought conditions setting the stage for forest fires proved once again a realism for the Wilderness. The outfitting industry working on the Salmon system, as well as the recreational rafting community, gazed upon the smoky skies with frustrated disappointment. As Mother Nature pulled the plug, many a disappointed guest went without their adventure while guides, like myself, lamented losing seasonal goodbyes made on trips now canceled.
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