Middle Fork River Tour delivers scenic treat

SANDPOINT — Bonner County locals are no strangers to natural beauty, but Sandpoint resident and firefighter Clint Frank says that they’re missing out if they ignore the Middle Fork.

Frank acquired his love for the region throughout his 20 years of experience as a guide along the Salmon River. Now he’s applying that knowledge and experience in the business world when he and his wife Holly purchased the Middle Fork River Tour business in November.

“At this point in our lives, we were ready for new risks and opportunities,” Frank said. “We couldn’t think of a better way to do that than by offering quality river trips for families and friends.”

A section of the Salmon River located in central Idaho, the Middle Fork begins in mountainous geography and degrades at 30 feet per mile into picturesque gorges. According to Frank, it’s an experience not to be overlooked.

“I know during the summertime, people want to stick around Sandpoint as much as possible,” he said. “But they really need to check this out.”

There’s no better place to offer a quality river trip than the Middle Fork, Frank added. The waterway is highly prized by rafters for its scenic beauty and exciting white water. However, the government limits the number of launches per day and permits are difficult to acquire. That’s due in part to the dozens of rapids that can either be thrilling or disastrous depending on the presence of an experienced guide.

The Franks aim to offer the Middle Fork experience on safe and memorable four-to-six day all-inclusive trips. Adventures begin in the small town of Stanley on a thin strip of river nestled amidst heavily forested mountains. As the trip progresses, the river widens and the scenery opens up into panoramic canyon vistas. Between the four to six hours a day in the raft, guests enjoy the many hikes, springs and other natural attractions along the way.

“That shift in scenery is one of the best parts about the trip,” Frank said. “It’s one of the most beautiful places in the country and in the world, for that matter.”

Being completely removed from civilization doesn’t mean rafters are forced to rough it, either. Holly oversees the meals included in tour packages, ensuring that menus are diverse and inclusive for all diet preferences. Using dutch ovens, the crew is able to prepare elaborate entrees and fresh-baked breakfasts and desserts.

The business also offers specialized tours. Fishing trips are especially popular. The river’s fish are generous biters, offering less frustration for the newbies and a bonanza for the experienced. On July 28, the Franks will team up with the Pend Oreille Winery for a $2,000 wine-tasting trip that includes all the wine the guests can drink.

The Franks already get plenty of praise from previous guests from around the world, with 10 percent booking another tour for the following year. However, they hope to bring more local residents in on the fun. To that end, they’re offering special promotions, including an Aug. 21 trip with a 50 percent discount for kids and a 25 percent discount for adults. Any trip booked before March 20 will also receive a $200 markdown. The Franks will be giving a presentation this Saturday starting 4 p.m. at the Sandpoint West Athletic Club to explain the trips in more detail.

“I hope that people will come out and join us,” Frank said. “This is too incredible of a place to not see before you die.”

Clint and Molly Frank of Middle Fork River Tours can be reached at 800-445-9738. Their website is www.middlefork.com.