Jackson Hole: Snake River Float Trip & Teton Views Wildlife

Summary

Drifting past Tetons on Snake River with wildlife all around

You’ll float down 13 miles of the Snake River with views of the Tetons right there beside you. Spotting moose or bald eagles feels almost unreal at times, and your local guide brings stories that stick with you after. It’s calm, gentle — just drifting and watching Wyoming unfold around every bend.

What’s the experience like?

You know that feeling when you step out of the van and the air smells kind of sharp, like pine needles and river rocks? That’s how it started for us in Jackson Hole — barely awake but already grinning. Our guide, Sam (who’s lived here forever), handed out these life jackets that felt stiff at first but I got used to it quick. There was a bit of nervous laughter from the family next to us — their youngest kept asking if we’d see moose or just ducks. I wondered too, honestly.

The raft slid into the Snake River so quietly I almost missed it. It’s not whitewater — more like a long exhale as you drift. The Tetons were just there, looming over everything. Sam pointed out a bald eagle perched high up and told us about osprey nests along this stretch. I tried to snap a photo but mostly ended up watching the way the light hit the water — silvery in some spots, muddy brown in others where the current slowed down. And then suddenly someone whispered “moose!” and sure enough, there was one half-hidden by willows on the bank. We all went silent except for the sound of water slapping against the raft.

I didn’t expect how much I’d enjoy just floating and listening — sometimes Sam would tell a story about old trappers or explain something about the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (I still can’t believe how much he knew). Other times it was just quiet except for birds overhead or someone’s rain poncho rustling when a breeze picked up. At one point my fingers went numb from dipping them in; Wyoming rivers are cold even in summer, apparently. I kept thinking about how different this felt from any other day trip — no rush, no noise except nature doing its thing.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snake River scenic float trip

• Meet guides in Jackson Hole
• Board raft for float trip
• Float 13 miles on Snake River
• Enjoy wildlife viewing
• Learn about Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
• Return to Jackson Hole

Top questions

How long is the Snake River scenic float trip?

The float trip covers a 13-mile stretch of the Snake River and lasts about 3 hours.

Is this tour suitable for kids or seniors?

Yes, it's designed for families, seniors, first-timers, and wildlife enthusiasts; minimum age is 4 for group tours.

Are hotel pickup and drop-off included?

No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included; you'll need to meet at the launch site 30 minutes before departure.

What wildlife might we see during this float trip?

You might spot moose, river otters, bald eagles, osprey, and various birds along the riverbanks.

What happens if it rains during our float trip?

The tour operates in all weather conditions unless it's unsafe; rain ponchos are provided if needed.

Is public transportation available to get to the meeting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby for reaching the meeting location.

Do I need any special fitness level for this tour?

This scenic float is suitable for all physical fitness levels; it's not recommended only for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water to keep you refreshed on board, an expert river guide who shares stories and points out wildlife along the way, rain ponchos if clouds roll in unexpectedly, plus personal flotation devices for everyone’s safety throughout your time on the Snake River.