Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness

Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness is a federally protected wilderness area in central Idaho that spreads across the Salmon River Mountains and deep river valleys with many waterways. The terrain covers six national forests and shows rugged mountain slopes, dense woodlands, and wide sections of untouched nature inviting hiking and paddling.

The United States Congress created this protected area in 1980 and renamed it four years later after Senator Frank Church, who worked to preserve the landscape. The region once served as an important hunting and passage ground for the Nez Perce and other tribes before European settlers entered the valleys.

The river earned its name because early travelers could move only downstream, forced by powerful currents that made any return journey impossible. Visitors today still see the same rapids and narrow gorges that shaped this reputation centuries ago.

Visitors reach the area through 66 trailheads that lead to almost 300 maintained trails spreading into all parts. Most paths are well marked and run through forests and along river edges, with some routes being very remote and requiring full gear.

The area permits landings at 26 airstrips and the use of motorized boats on the river, two exceptions to usual wilderness protection rules. These allowances have existed since the founding because remote valleys would otherwise be nearly unreachable.

Location: Idaho

Inception: 1980

Operator: United States Forest Service

Website: https://wilderness.net/visit-wilderness/?ID=194

GPS coordinates: 45.06530,-114.95400

Latest update: December 19, 2025 23:21