Jackson Hole: Snake River Whitewater Rafting Classic Boats

Summary

Snake River rapids, local guides & wild canyon scenery in Jackson Hole

You’ll ride classic boats down Snake River’s famous canyon with local guides who know every rapid and quiet bend. Expect cold spray, wild scenery, wildlife sightings—and moments where adrenaline gives way to pure calm. Includes pickup from Jackson Hole, full splash gear, and all safety equipment so you can focus on the ride itself.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I almost missed the pickup because I couldn’t find my old sneakers — turns out you really don’t want to lose a shoe in the Snake River (our guide, Jamie, had stories). The van ride from Jackson Hole was full of sleepy chatter and that nervous energy you get before doing something just out of your comfort zone. Someone forgot sunscreen and there was this quick scramble for extra hats and jackets — Wyoming weather can turn on you fast, even in July.

When we got to the riverbank, the air smelled like wet stone and pine needles. Jamie handed out paddling pants and jackets (“synthetics are your friend,” she said), checked everyone’s life vests twice, then went over what to do if you fall in — not exactly comforting but somehow made me trust her more. The Snake River looked calm at first, kind of glassy with bits of mist hanging low. But then you could hear the rapids ahead, this low roar that got louder as we pushed off. I ended up in a non-paddling spot (honestly relieved) and just gripped the sides when we hit our first set of Class III waves — cold spray right in my face, someone behind me whooping so loud it startled a heron off a rock.

The quiet stretches surprised me most. Jamie pointed out osprey nests tucked into the cliffs and told us about how people fish here all summer — she even spotted a mule deer on the bank before any of us did. There was this moment where the sun broke through and everything felt washed clean; I still think about that light sometimes. My hands were numb by the end but I didn’t care. We all laughed at how ridiculous we looked peeling off soggy layers back at the van.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whitewater rafting on Snake River

• Meet at Mad River Boat Trips
• Receive safety briefing from guide
• Board raft for Snake River trip
• Navigate rapids Class I-III
• Enjoy calm river sections and scenery
• Learn about local flora and fauna
• Complete rafting adventure

Top questions

How long does the whitewater rafting trip take?

The trip is half-day; it doesn’t take all day but lasts long enough to experience both rapids and calm sections.

What class are the rapids on this tour?

The Snake River rafting trip features Class I-III rapids—easy to moderate difficulty.

Is transportation included from Jackson Hole?

Yes, transportation to and from the river is included with your booking.

Do I need special clothing or shoes for rafting?

You should wear synthetic layers and shoes that stay on when wet; rental booties are available if needed.

Are kids allowed on this whitewater rafting tour?

Children must weigh at least 50 pounds to join this rafting trip.

What safety equipment is provided?

Paddling pants/jacket and Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) are provided for everyone.

Is lunch included during the tour?

No meal is included; bring snacks if needed but focus is on rafting experience itself.

Can pregnant travelers join this rafting adventure?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transport from Jackson Hole to Snake River Canyon, professional river guides who handle safety and navigation, paddling pants and jackets for splash protection, plus Coast Guard-approved life vests so you can focus on enjoying every rapid—and every quiet stretch—in comfort.