Thanks, Bill. July is the most popular month, because the weather is hot (great for being on or in the water) and usually sunny, and the river level remains high enough for excitement in the rapids. June is the start of the season, with the water bigger, faster, more challenging, and colder. Late summer has its charms, the river is a bit lower, fishing remains good, but you probably can’t run the upper river, you have to fly in to Indian Creek at mile 27 and run it from there (which has happened on both of our trips, in mid- or late July, and it’s nonetheless a thoroughly enjoyable trip).

Lucky you to have discovered the Middle Fork at such a young age, Jim. I strongly urge you to take your own family down it. Wonderful adventure and family experience.