Thoughtfully appointed suites designed for rest
after long days on the water
Curated in-house
dining experiences
for lodge guests
Legendary dry-fly waters
just minutes
from the main lodge
Private excursions
national park tours
and mountain exploration
Where Western Heritage meets Refined Comfort
Crafted timber, curated wildlife displays, and the quiet warmth of a true Western retreat.
Evenings here feel as memorable as the river.
Retreat into Quiet Luxury
A private escape designed for
rest, romance, and renewal.
Thoughtfully appointed lodge suites designed for deep rest after long days on the river.
Warm timber walls, refined western details, plush bedding, and private baths create an atmosphere that feels both intimate and expansive.
Step onto your private deck with morning coffee.
Return at dusk to golden light and quiet mountain air.
Here, evenings are as memorable as the water.
The Legendary South Fork of the Snake
Swan Valley, Idaho is home to one of the West’s most respected dry-fly fisheries — just minutes from River Retreat Lodge. Guided floats and seasonal walk-in access place guests within reach of legendary wild trout water.
In its clear mountain currents swim Yellowstone cutthroat, wild browns, rainbows, and mountain whitefish creating rewarding days on one of Idaho’s most storied rivers.
Exlusive Private Waters on the Salt River
Select stretches of the Salt River in nearby Western Wyoming are reserved exclusively for lodge guests seeking solitude and unshared access. Fed by high mountain springs, these private waters offer a clear, cold fishery beyond
the public riverbanks — arranged in advance.
Summer days bring animated Western cutthroat to the surface, while early fall offers the chance at larger native browns in these secluded reaches.
Adventure Beyond the River
Wildlife photography at first light.
Hike the renowned Palisades Creek Trail — just minutes from the lodge.
Explore the historic Palisades Reservoir by boat, paddleboard, or shoreline stroll.
Witness elk, moose, and migrating birds and the iconic
Trumpeter Swan in their natural habitat.
And under vast Western skies, experience true mountain wilderness solitude— far from crowds, close to wonder.
Your Swan Valley extraordinary experience begins here.
Guest Reflections
Sharing a treasured secret: this place is a hidden gem. It is an immaculately clean and meticulously maintained lodge, and just minutes from some of the best fishing in the West. We can’t wait to return!
—A. Black
River Retreat Lodge was wonderful. Warm hospitality, gourmet breakfasts, and the perfect base for exploring Swan Valley and beyond. Super friendly and endlessly helpful, we definitely recommend it!
—A. Scott
Great atmosphere for a longer stay! Delicious breakfasts and dinners, and unforgettable days on the River. Fishing. Scenery. Wildlife. National Parks. Water Recreation. Perfection!
—L. Curler
Rated 5.0 ★ on TripAdvisor
#1 Lodge in Irwin, Idaho
24 Verified 5-Star Reviews
Rooms • Cleanliness • Service • Sleep Quality — All Rated 5.0
Boutique Dining, Reserved for Our Guests
At The Gilded Trumpeter, dining is seamlessly woven into your stay at River Retreat Lodge.
Seasonal breakfasts, curated lunches, and refined evening dinners are available by reservation and
crafted exclusively for our lodge guests and their invited family or friends.
Whether included in a seasonal package or arranged individually, each meal is thoughtfully prepared
and served in the warm, Western elegance of the lodge.
Seasonal ingredients. Quiet refinement. Personalized service.
Private Gatherings
Intentionally Designed
Reserve the Lodge for intimate retreats, executive escapes,
fishing friends, holiday parties, and milestone celebrations.
Timeless Connections. Exclusively Yours.