Jackson Hole: Snake River Whitewater Rafting Tour

Summary

Snake River adventure with rapids, laughter & wild Wyoming views

You’ll paddle through roaring Class III rapids on the Snake River with a local guide who keeps things safe (and funny). Expect moments of calm between splashes, wildlife overhead, and shared laughter as you get drenched together. It’s an honest taste of Wyoming adventure that sticks with you long after your feet are dry.

What’s the experience like?

“You ready for Big Kahuna?” our guide, Mike, grinned as we tightened our helmets by the riverbank outside Jackson Hole. I was half-laughing, half-wondering if my paddle grip was too tight — but honestly, the energy from everyone (even the kids in our raft) was contagious. The Snake River looked calm at first, but you could hear this low roar somewhere downstream. I remember the smell of wet pine and sunscreen mixing in the air while we waded in to climb aboard.

The first stretch surprised me — it wasn’t all wild splashes right away. There were these quiet patches where you could actually look up and see osprey circling overhead and those crazy blue Wyoming skies stretching forever. Mike pointed out some rock formations he called “old friends” (I think he’s run this river a thousand times). Then suddenly Lunch Counter rapid was right there — white water everywhere, cold spray smacking my face, everyone yelling directions over the noise. I definitely swallowed a little river water (don’t tell my mom), but it just made us laugh harder.

I didn’t expect to feel so connected to strangers after only eight miles on the Snake River. By the end, we were all soaked and grinning like fools — even the quiet guy in back cracked a joke about his soggy socks. The van ride back to Jackson Hole felt almost too short; I kept thinking about that moment when we dropped into Cottonwood rapid and time sort of slowed down for a second before chaos hit again. If you’re looking for something real — not just scenery but actual heart-thumping fun with people who know this place inside out — this whitewater rafting trip is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whitewater rafting on Snake River

• Meet professionally-trained guides
• Board raft for 8-mile journey
• Paddle through Class III rapids
• Navigate Big Kahuna rapid
• Navigate Lunch Counter rapid
• Navigate Cottonwood rapid
• Enjoy scenic river views

Top questions

How long is the whitewater rafting trip from Jackson Hole?

The rafting covers 8 miles (13 kilometers) on the Snake River.

What class are the rapids on this tour?

You’ll paddle through intermediate Class III rapids.

Is transportation included from Jackson Hole?

Yes, roundtrip transport from their shop in Jackson Hole to the river is included.

What’s the minimum age for this Snake River rafting tour?

The minimum age is 6 years old; all children must be accompanied by an adult.

Do I need previous rafting experience?

No previous experience needed, but moderate physical fitness is recommended.

Are paddles and gear provided?

Yes, paddles and splash gear are provided for every participant.

Is lunch included on this whitewater rafting day trip?

No lunch is included; only transportation and equipment are provided.

How many people are needed per booking?

A minimum of two people per booking is required for this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip transportation from Jackson Hole to the Snake River launch point, all paddles and splash gear you’ll need for tackling those rapids, guidance from a professional local guide who knows every bend in the river, plus local taxes covered so you can just focus on paddling and laughing your way downstream before heading back into town together.