Snake River rafting in Jackson Hole: Wildlife and Tetons

Float past nesting eagles and the Tetons without fighting the current

A scenic float trip on Wyoming's Snake River near Jackson Hole where you drift in an inflatable raft past wildlife nesting areas and mountain views for three hours. The guide handles navigation. You watch for bald eagles, osprey, moose, deer and river otters while the current carries you downstream. Ponchos, blankets, life jackets and an expert guide are included. The trip runs in all weather and welcomes children from age 4.

Step-by-step itinerary

Snake River scenic float trip

• Check in for the trip
• Start trip in Wilson, WY
• Float on the Snake River
• View Grand Tetons during float
• See Jackson Peak and Gros Ventre Wilderness
• Enjoy views of Jackson Hole valley
• View Bridger-Teton National Forest surroundings

The experience

The float starts in Wilson, Wyoming, and moves at river speed: slow enough to spot wildlife but fast enough that you cover ground without paddling. You sit in a state-of-the-art inflatable raft with a personal flotation device, and the guide does the steering while you keep your camera ready. The Snake River here winds through the valley floor with the Grand Teton and the Gros Ventre Wilderness rising on both sides, so the scenery frames the whole three hours.

Bald eagles and osprey nest along the banks, and moose, deer and river otters show up regularly: the timing and the water level decide what you see on any given day. The raft stays shallow enough that you won't get soaked, though ponchos and blankets are on board for chilly mornings or unexpected spray. The guide knows where to look and when to slow down, which is what turns a float into a wildlife trip instead of just drifting.

Check-in happens in Jackson, and the office staff will walk you through the day's procedures when you call to confirm your time. Dress for the weather forecast and bring a camera. The trip runs rain or shine, and children as young as four can ride along.

What’s included

• Expert guide steering the raft.
• state-of-the-art inflatable raft and personal flotation device.
• ponchos on every boat.
• blankets for cool mornings or spray.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 13 May 2027

Book up to2d before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (4 to 12 years) · Under 4: can't be booked

GroupUp to 20

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effort

Operated by Dave Hansen White Water Scenic River Trips

Is this one for you?The three-hour window leaves your morning or afternoon free for other Jackson Hole activities. It's long enough to see wildlife and the Tetons without eating your whole day, and calm enough that families with young children and anyone avoiding strenuous paddling can relax the entire float.

Traveler reviews

4.85★★★★★★★★★★

1,115 verified traveler reviews

5 ★1,005

4 ★72

3 ★22

2 ★11

1 ★5

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 12 years). Children under 4 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What wildlife will I actually see on the Snake River float?

Bald eagles and osprey nest along the banks and show up regularly. Moose, deer and river otters appear depending on the day and water conditions. The guide knows where to look and will slow down to give you time to spot and photograph them.

Do I need to paddle, or does the guide handle the raft?

The guide steers and navigates the whole trip. You sit in the raft and watch the river and mountains pass. The current does most of the work, so the float is relaxing rather than physically demanding.

Will I get wet on this rafting trip?

The Snake River float here stays shallow and calm, so you won't get soaked. Ponchos and blankets are on every boat in case of spray or chilly weather, and you wear a personal flotation device the whole time.

How long is the float, and what time does it start?

The trip lasts three hours. You'll need to call the supplier to confirm your exact start time and check-in procedures for the day you're booked.

What do I need to bring or wear?

Dress for the weather forecast that day: the trip runs in all weather. Bring a camera if you want to photograph wildlife and mountains. Ponchos and blankets are provided, and the guide supplies your personal flotation device.