My buddy Chuck has organized a river trip the last couple of years. Last year, we did the Main Salmon - this year, not having drawn any permits through lotteries, the target was the Lower Salmon, a river segment that does not have a quota. We ran from White Bird to the Snake River, then down to Heller Bar. There's a few tasty rapids, but not much sports-action, other than the opportunity to do considerable rowing. The drive up in Chuck's huge van - Sally (front row), Chris and Maggie (2nd Row), Gannon and Katie (3rd Row).

Advanced car camping - loading too much gear for a 4-day trip!

Napping in camp. Chuck's daughter Katie.

In camp, hanging out. Something that people on river trips do a lot of. Chris w/ Sally, Maggie (Chuck's almost-step-daughter), Chuck.

Jim's daughter Lindsay.

The Van Buren Clan: Jim, Lindsey, Chris and Mary.

Sally, Chris and Maggie.

Launching after lunch the next day. Pretty nice canyon, all and all. We ran from White Bird, Idaho to the Snake River, and pulled out Washington State.

Arrival at camp. Next step: Hors Derves! Chris, Maggie, Chuck and Alicia digging in.