Mackay Bar Outfitters and Guest Ranch

Idaho's Salmon River Vacation Destination and Lodging at Mackay Bar Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness..

Bighorn Sheep Hunts

RATES  |  SEASONAL:  October

Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep permit application season is in April and the hunts take place in the fall.

If you are lucky enough to have drawn one of these controlled hunts, we would be happy to guide you on your once-in-a-lifetime hunt opportunity.

The majority of our sheep hunts are a combination of hike and spot/stalk from the jet boat. We will spend our time in the boat glassing for the big ram. Once we spot him we may have to strap on the boots and cover some very rough country. If you are willing to pass up some 160 /170 class rams, there is a chance you can harvest one of the record book rams that hang in the cliffs of our wonderful Salmon River canyon. We would say this hunt is as close to a guaranteed hunt as you can find on public ground.

You will most likely be hunting out of the ranch,  close to the river and the boats,  so bring your family and let them be a part of your adventure!

Please visit our RATES page for prices.

The PERFECT wedding venue!

When we first got engaged we quickly started looking into wedding venues. Being from California, we’d been to many winery weddings. Although fun and beautiful, we felt like we wanted to do something different and decided it would be fun to get hitched at a backcountry lodge.

We are really into rivers and had done a few trips in Idaho’s Frank Church Wilderness. We’d always loved the remoteness, beauty, and serenity of the Salmon River and had passed by a few ranches that looked like they’d be fun to visit with a big group. It wasn’t long before we connected with Joni at Mackay Bar, put down a deposit, and lined up a perfect date in September.

There are many reasons to do a wedding at Mackay Bar, but here are our top 10…. (Read full review)

KTELLIOT1 – Reviewed January 5, 2017 TripAdvisor.com

You’ll Want To Stay Longer!

From the moment we boarded the boat heading to Mackay Bar, until we said goodbye, this trip was one of the best mini-vacations we all have ever had! Buck and Joni, as well as their entire staff and Dax, were always giving their guests full attention, touring by boat the unbelievable historical areas, viewing wildlife and fishing along the way while on the river. There was horseback riding, hiking, or just plain lounging and relaxing. The food was incredible! – The meals were incredibly gourmet, and portions were always more than one could eat! The cabins were very clean, well cared for and very comfortable. We also found some great hats, shirts and outerwear to remember the Mackay Bar experience. If you are looking for a place to unplug/unwind and the ability to get some adventure, this is it! We stayed only two nights, but we are planning on returning soon, for an additional night or two….. better make your reservations now cuz we are coming back!

To Dax, Joni & Buck, we will see soon. It is great to see your family carry on the heritage of the Salmon River Drainage. Thank you for ya’ll’s awesomeness. James & Michele

mejrs208 – Reviewed December 5, 2017 TripAdvisor.com

Mackay Bar Is Incredible!

Buck, Joni, Aubrey, Mike, Aunt Sue, Dax, Tank and Hank! You guys were amazing! Outstanding, clean, comfortable quarters and boats. Food was better than A+. Didn’t have to worry about anything during our stay. The views, landscape, mountains, river, wildlife and adventure were second to none. I give them my highest recommendation!

willow6868 – Reviewed October 23, 2017 – TripAdvisor.com