OUR TEAM

Tommy Hilleke is a world-class kayaker and veteran river guide with over 30 years of experience running rivers across the globe. A six-time Green Race Champion and pioneer of numerous first descents, Tommy is known for his unmatched skill, calm leadership, and deep respect for the water. As both a Swiftwater Rescue Instructor and ACA-certified Kayak Instructor, he brings technical expertise and a passion for safety to every trip, inspiring confidence and adventure in everyone he guides

Polly Hilleke discovered her love for rivers as a student at the Colorado Rocky Mountain School, where she first learned to kayak—and never looked back. She met Tommy through kayaking, and together they’ve raised their four boys on the river, sharing a life shaped by running rivers. Polly’s deep love for wild places and belief in the way rivers bring people together are at the heart of Salmon River Adventure Company’s spirit and community

Bill and Denise Hilleke are Tommy’s parents and share a lifelong love for the river as well.  They grew up water skiing on the Black Warrior River, in Alabama which they now call home 9 months a year. Their joy for life on the river and their warm, welcoming nature shine through in everything they do. Bill and Denise are, quite simply, some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.

Kelly Hilleke is the oldest of the Hilleke boys and a natural leader on and off the water. A confident and dynamic paddler, he’s raced in events like Oh Be Joyful, the Green Race, and the Russell Fork, earning respect for his smooth style and composure in big water. Kelly’s high energy and enthusiasm are contagious on the river, inspiring everyone around him. Not only is he a phenomenal kayaker, but also a Freeride World Tour skier who brings the same spirit of adventure and flow to both snow and water. His steady presence, skill, and love for wild places make him an essential part of every trip.