Salmon, ID

Salmon is a small city located in Lemhi County, Idaho. The history of Salmon can be traced back to the Native American tribes who originally inhabited the area. These tribes, including the Shoshone-Bannock and Nez Perce, relied on the abundant salmon runs of the nearby Salmon River for their livelihoods.

The first known European contact with the region was when Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through in 1805. They encountered the Native American tribes and witnessed the importance of salmon to their way of life. However, it wasn't until the mid-19th century that permanent settlements began to appear.

In 1866, a trading post was established by Robert Scott near the confluence of the Salmon and Lemhi rivers, which later became known as Salmon City. The city grew slowly, but the discovery of gold in nearby Yankee Fork in the 1870s brought an influx of miners and settlers. Salmon quickly became a supply hub for the mining activities in the surrounding area.

In 1895, Salmon officially became the county seat of Lemhi County, solidifying its status as a regional center. The town continued to grow as agriculture, logging, and ranching became essential industries in the region.

Salmon faced numerous challenges throughout its history, including devastating fires in 1901 and 1910 that caused significant damage to the city. However, it managed to rebuild and recover each time.

Today, Salmon is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities. The Salmon River, often referred to as the "River of No Return," attracts whitewater rafting, fishing, and camping enthusiasts from all over the country. The city also serves as a gateway to the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, the largest contiguous wilderness area in the continental United States.

Despite its relatively small population, Salmon has a rich history and continues to thrive as a center for outdoor recreation and tourism in Idaho.

Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural, and Educational Center

A museum that explores the history and culture of the Lemhi Shoshone tribe and their interaction with the Lewis and Clark expedition.

Salmon Historical Museum

Showcasing the history and heritage of Salmon and the surrounding area, including exhibits on Native American culture, mining, and pioneer life.

Goldbug Hot Springs

A natural hot springs located in the mountains near Salmon, offering a scenic and relaxing experience.

Salmon River

Known as the "River of No Return," Salmon River offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, rafting, and scenic hikes along its banks.

Challis National Forest

A nearby forested area with numerous outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Lost Trail Powder Mountain

A popular ski resort located near Salmon, offering skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Tendoy Mountains

A scenic mountain range located south of Salmon, providing opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and photography.

Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway

A picturesque drive that takes visitors through stunning canyons, river valleys, and vast landscapes, showcasing the natural beauty of the region.

North Fork of the Salmon River

A pristine river section known for its challenging whitewater rapids and stunning scenery, attracting rafting enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Ski Hill

Located in Salmon, this recreational area offers skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and other winter activities during the snowy season.

Salmon, Idaho has a generally cool and semi-arid climate. The town is located in Lemhi County, which is part of the central mountains region of the state. Here are some key features of the climate in Salmon:

Temperature

Summers are typically warm with temperatures ranging from the low 80s°F (around 26-28°C) during the day to cooler evenings in the 50s°F (around 10-15°C). Winters are cold, with average high temperatures in the 30s and 40s°F (around 0-10°C) and lows dropping below freezing, often into the teens°F (around -10°C).

Precipitation

Salmon receives a moderate amount of precipitation, with an annual average of about 20 inches (50 cm). Most of the rainfall occurs in the spring and early summer months. Winter precipitation tends to come in the form of snow, with average snowfall reaching about 50 inches (127 cm) per year. Snow can begin falling as early as October and may persist until April.

Sunshine

Salmon experiences approximately 230 days of sunshine per year, which is higher than the national average. The high altitude and clear skies contribute to the prevalence of sunny days. This makes Salmon an attractive destination for outdoor activities.

Wind

The town of Salmon is known for its relatively windy conditions. This is due to its location between mountain ranges, which can result in gusty winds blowing through the valley at times. Wind speeds can reach over 20 miles per hour (32 km/h) during certain periods, particularly in the spring and fall.

Seasonal changes

The changing of seasons in Salmon is noticeable, with distinct spring, summer, fall, and winter periods. Spring is mild and can be accompanied by rain showers. Summers are warm and pleasant, ideal for outdoor recreation. Fall offers cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Winters are cold and snowy, creating opportunities for winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.

It is worth noting that while these are general characteristics of the climate in Salmon, Idaho, weather patterns can vary from year to year and may experience some fluctuations.

Salmon, Idaho is a small town located in Lemhi County in the state of Idaho. While it is a small town, there are a few distinct neighborhoods within Salmon that each have their own charm and character. Here are some of the neighborhoods you'll find in Salmon:

Downtown

The heart of Salmon, Downtown is the commercial and cultural center of the town. It is home to many local businesses, shops, restaurants, and government offices. Here, you'll find historic buildings and a vibrant atmosphere.

Salmon River Corridor

Located along the scenic Salmon River, this neighborhood offers beautiful views and access to outdoor recreational activities. You'll find many riverfront properties, campgrounds, and hiking trails in this area, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

East Fork

Situated to the east of Downtown, East Fork is a residential neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes and apartments. It is a quiet and peaceful area, perfect for families or those looking for a serene place to live.

South Valley

The South Valley neighborhood is primarily a rural area, located south of Downtown along Highway 28. It is known for its farmland, ranches, and open spaces. This neighborhood offers a more laid-back and countryside living experience.

Carmen

Located northeast of Salmon, the Carmen neighborhood is a small community surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities, including fishing, hiking, and camping.

North Salmon

This neighborhood is situated to the north of Downtown along Highway 93. It is a mix of residential and commercial areas, with a variety of housing options available. North Salmon offers easy access to amenities and convenience for its residents.

These are just a few of the neighborhoods in Salmon, Idaho. Each neighborhood has its own unique identity, but they all share a love for the natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle that Salmon has to offer.