Essential Tips & What to Bring for your Jackson Hole Rafting Adventure

Welcome to the exhilarating world of whitewater rafting in Jackson Hole on the Snake River! Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of the Teton Range, the Snake River offers a setting for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills and natural beauty. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for your whitewater rafting or scenic float down the Snake River. From understanding the river’s unique characteristics to ensuring you have the right gear and knowledge to stay safe on the water, we’ve got you covered. So, get ready to paddle through the heart of the Rocky Mountains, soak in the awe-inspiring scenery, and immerse yourself in the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Snake River. Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a first-time adventurer, Jackson Hole offers an unforgettable experience for all who dare to brave its rapids.

Whether you’re coming in May or August, the rapids are out and ready to play all summer long. Don’t forget to check out our Snake River water levels page for up-to-date information on flows! 

Rapids Timing:

• Spring Runoff (May-June): High water levels.
• August: Low water levels.
• Rapids like Big Kahuna are more pronounced in low water, while Lunch Counter is more exciting in high water.

Route Details:

• 8-mile stretch with class 2 and 3 rapids.
• The major rapids are Lunch Counter or Big Kahuna, both are about 4 miles in.
• Perfect for novice rafters and entertaining for experienced rafters.
• Check out our Snake River rafting maps!

What to Wear

Footwear:

• Some form of shoe is required, as there is a walk back to the bus in gravel after your whitewater trip!
• Water shoes like Chacos, Tevas, or Keens are ideal.
• Flip-flops are not recommended! You may lose any shoe that’s not attached to your foot.
• Plan for your shoes to get wet.
• Bootie rentals are available!

Clothing:

• Warm Sunny Days: Swimsuit, sun hoodie, and shorts.
• Rainy or Cold Days: Rain shell and a fleece with a wetsuit, wearing a swimsuit underneath. We have wetsuits and wetsuit jacket rentals available in our office.
• Quick Dry Clothes: Shirts and shorts or pants made of merino wool, nylon, or polyester. 
• Avoid Cotton! Cotton materials will make you feel colder when they are wet.

Accessories:

• SUNSCREEN!
• Hat and sunglasses – but not your favorite pair, as the Snake River loves to swoop in and steal them! 
• If you need to wear your glasses during the whitewater rafting trip we recommend glasses straps that will secure them to your head. Teton Whitewater sells sunglasses and croakies if needed.
• You shouldn’t plan to bring anything else with you on the raft, as it also might end up in the river, possibly forever! 
• If you are planning on bringing a camera or GoPro with you, make sure it can be secured to you.
• Water, snacks, towels, and a dry shirt are recommended to leave on the bus for after your trip
• Alcohol and smoking are not allowed in any capacity

You will be given a paddle and a lifejacket at the boat ramp to start your adventure and prepare for the soaking rapids ahead.The life jacket should be safely secured with all buckles fastened and should not be able to lift past your. Your lifejacket will be checked by our guides certified in swift water safety before you go out on the water. You should be wearing a lifejacket at all times on the river and we require the usage of our provided lifejackets. We do not allow guests to bring their own jackets. Your raft guide will explain how to properly hold the paddle you’ll be using to move the boat through the rapids.

Preparing for your Wilson Scenic Float

For our Snake River scenic float trip, plan on taking in the beautiful views and watching out for wildlife. During the float, you shouldn’t plan to get wet at all, unless you want to jump in the water at the safe zones throughout the trip – your guide will let you know of these spots! 

Route Details:

• 13-mile stretch.
• There are safe swim zones where you have the option to jump into the water.
• Beautiful view of the Tetons.
• Perfect for families with young kids and older folks.
• Check out our Snake River rafting maps for more information!

What to Wear

Footwear:

• Water shoes like Chacos, Tevas, or Keens or an old pair of sneakers are ideal.
• Any shoe is acceptable, but they may get wet.

Clothing:

Dress for the weather!

• Warm Sunny Days: Sunhoodie and shorts
• Quick Dry Clothes: Shirts and shorts or pants made of merino wool, nylon, or polyester 
• Rainy or Cold Days: Rain shell and layers! The guides do have fleece blankets and ponchos on the boat if needed

Accessories:

• Sunscreen! There is no shade during the float
• Hat and sunglasses
• Phones, cameras, backpacks, and snacks are all allowed on the boat
• Coolers and alcohol are not permitted on the float
• Binoculars are always fun to have with you!

Now you’ve read how to prepare for your whitewater rafting trip in Jackson Hole and learned some whitewater rafting tips, remember: 

• Wear your life jacket correctly
• Keep paddling
• Be ready to get splashed
• Listen to your guide
• Have Fun!

Weather Considerations

The weather in Jackson Hole can change quickly and is quite variable. Generally, storms will pass quickly, and the weather at the office may not be the same as it is at the boat ramp. We raft rain or shine – you’ll be getting wet no matter what! Our guides know how to make inclement weather enjoyable. If you’d like some extra protection from the waves or encounter a rainy day, you can bring a rain shell to wear over your clothes and underneath your life jacket. In our early and late seasons, when it’s chilly outside, it’s best to wear a wetsuit on the whitewater trip and warm layers on the scenic float! The wetsuit doesn’t keep you dry, but instead keeps you warm by using your body heat to warm up the layer of water trapped between you and your wetsuit. You should wear a swimsuit or other quick-dry clothes underneath.

We encourage you to take on this thrilling adventure while being mindful of safety and environmental stewardship. Our guides will be there every step of the way to help you feel comfortable and informed. Your rafting adventure will be a fun and exciting memory that will stand out on your solo, friend, or family trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. We can’t wait to watch you defeat those rapids on your Jackson Hole whitewater rafting trip, and hear about all the views you saw on the Snake River scenic float!