FAQ

We are a family-owned outfitter that has been guiding the Snake River canyon since 1971. Because we are an independent, boutique operation rather than a massive corporate tour, we focus heavily on personalized service and employ an elite team of highly experienced guides. Our goal is to give you the most authentic and comfortable adventure in Jackson Hole, rather than just treating you like a number.

We believe in a better ride, which means fewer people on the boat. We run the absolute smallest commercial rafts on the Snake River with our Small Boat option, offering the only pure paddle-guided trip in the canyon for a wetter, more thrilling experience. Even on our 17-foot Classic Rafts, we opt to cap our trips at a maximum of 12 guests per boat. Many standard tours pack up to 16 people onto the exact same size boat. By keeping our numbers lower, we prioritize your comfort and elbow room while ensuring a highly personalized experience with much more direct interaction and storytelling from your guide.

While many standard tours cover 7 to 10 miles, our float takes you on a full 13-mile tranquil journey west of Jackson, from Wilson to South Park. This gives you significantly more time on the water to sit back, relax, and get your camera ready. It’s also an absolute haven for wildlife. Because you have more time on the water, you’ll have ample chances to witness bald eagles, pelicans, and osprey, or spot majestic moose, elk, and deer along the riverbanks.

While you might see some outfitters using hard plastic, upright chairs on their rafts, we have intentionally chosen not to use them. Through our decades of experience on the Snake River, we’ve found that while these seats look comfortable at the dock, they actually become restrictive over a 13-mile trip. They lock you into facing one direction and often leave your feet dangling uncomfortably. Instead, we utilize traditional, flexible raft seating that allows you to comfortably shift your weight, plant your feet securely, and easily pivot 360 degrees.

The Classic Raft is our 17-foot staple. It is a stable, self-bailing boat that provides a fun, splashy ride without being overwhelming. It is the best choice for families with younger kids, first-time rafters, or anyone who wants to enjoy the canyon with a bit more stability.

The Small Boat is a 13-foot raft built for people who want the most excitement possible. This is the smallest raft offered commercially on the Snake River. Because it is so small, it sits lower in the water and reacts more intensely to every wave. It is a faster, wetter, and more physical trip.

We offer the only pure paddle-guided Small Boat trip in the canyon. While every other outfitter in the valley uses rear-mount oar frames to help their guides steer 8-man rafts, our Small Boats rely entirely on the power of the crew. When you book a Small Boat with us, you are the engine. It is a much more intimate, adrenaline-pumping experience that you simply cannot find anywhere else on the river.

You should choose the Classic Raft if you are looking for a fun, iconic whitewater experience that is great for families and beginners alike. However, if you are a thrill-seeker who wants a more physical, high-energy, and wet ride, the Small Boat is definitely the better choice for your group. Alternatively, for those who prefer to stay dry while enjoying Teton views and focusing on wildlife and relaxation, we highly recommend booking the Scenic Float.

We require at least four adult-strength paddlers to navigate any of our rafts safely. On a full Classic Raft, we typically have 8 to 12 people, which often leaves a few spots in the middle for non-paddlers to sit back and enjoy the ride. If you would prefer not to paddle, just let your guide know at the launch. However, if you book a Small Boat, come prepared to work. These rafts require every person on board to be an active, strong paddler to handle the technical stretches of the canyon.

If you prefer a relaxing experience without the waves, our Scenic Float is the perfect choice. These trips take place on a completely different, tranquil stretch of the Snake River. We use rafts specifically designed for comfort, featuring dedicated bench seating and backrests. You can sit back, keep your camera ready for wildlife, and let your guide handle all the work. It is an ideal option for all ages and anyone looking for a peaceful mountain adventure.

The best way to dress for the river is to expect to get wet! We recommend starting with a bathing suit as your base layer. On warmer days, a bathing suit and a quick-drying t-shirt are perfect. If it’s cooler, you will want to add synthetic layers (like polyester, nylon, or fleece) or wool. Please do not wear any heavy cotton or denim clothing, like blue jeans or sweatpants, as cotton loses its ability to keep you warm once it gets wet. We’ll provide you with a complimentary splash jacket at the river, and we highly recommend leaving a towel and dry clothes on the bus for your ride back! There are changing rooms at the river for you to use after your trip.

There are several items you should leave behind for a safer experience. You should not wear anything made of cotton or denim during whitewater trips because these materials stay cold and heavy once they are wet. Similarly, please do not wear flip flops or Crocs, as these are easily lost in the river. Furthermore, we advise against bringing expensive jewelry, purses, or unsecured electronics unless they are in a waterproof case that is physically attached to you.

Because you are not paddling through splashing rapids on a scenic float, you should simply dress comfortably for the weather. Mountain temperatures can change quickly in Jackson Hole, so layering is always the best approach. If the weather turns, we do have rain ponchos available for our scenic floats.

For Whitewater Trips, we require secure footwear that you don’t mind getting completely wet. Old tennis shoes that lace tightly, water shoes, or rugged sport sandals with a secure heel strap (like Tevas or Chacos) are perfect. Bare feet, flip-flops, and Crocs are not allowed, as they slip off easily in the rapids. If you don’t have river-ready shoes, you can rent neoprene booties directly from our office.

For Scenic Floats, you can wear whatever comfortable shoes you prefer! Just keep in mind that you will be stepping into and out of the raft, so there is always a chance your shoes might get a little wet.

We highly recommend wearing an eyewear retainer (like Croakies or Chums) for your sunglasses or prescription glasses. The river loves to claim lost glasses, so securing them is a must! We sell retainers right in our office so you don’t lose your favorite pair.

Yes, we highly encourage it for our scenic float trips! Cameras and binoculars are perfect for capturing the stunning Teton views and spotting wildlife along the riverbanks (though please note we are not responsible for loss or damage). For whitewater trips, however, we advise against bringing an unprotected camera or phone, as it is almost guaranteed to get soaked or lost in the rapids.

The absolute safest place for your wallet, keys, and high-value items is locked securely inside your personal vehicle at our office. Keeping that in mind, for our white water rafting in Jackson Hole, you are more than welcome to bring a bag with a towel, dry clothes, and your phone to leave on our bus while you raft. Our drivers stay with the vehicles to keep a close eye on everything, so you can feel free to snap photos on the drive into the canyon and confidently leave your phone on the bus before we hit the rapids.

On the other hand, personal items cannot be left on the bus during scenic floats. However, you are more than welcome to bring a small bag onto the raft with you. We actually recommend bringing water, snacks, and extra layers for the mountain weather. We simply ask that you leave any large backpacks or non-essential valuables safely locked in your vehicle before we depart because space is limited on the rafts. Furthermore, you will not need your wallet on the water for any trip. If you would like to leave a gratuity for your guide after a great experience, you can easily do so back at our office.

For all whitewater trips, we provide Coast Guard-approved life jackets and coated nylon splash jackets completely free of charge. Because the Snake River is a deep, clear-channel Class III river, helmets are not required or provided. For scenic floats, we have life jackets and rain ponchos available at no extra cost.

Because the Snake River is fed by mountain snowmelt, the water temperature usually hovers between 50 and 60 degrees. Therefore, we highly recommend renting a wetsuit for everyone if the outside temperature is 65°F or below. As a result of the river canyon’s geography, it can get quite windy even on hot days in July and August, which can quickly give you a chill after splashing through a rapid. For those warmer days, our “shorty” wetsuits are a very popular option just to take the edge off.

Ultimately, our best advice is that it is much easier to cool down by taking a quick dip in the river than it is to warm up once you are already cold. A wetsuit is an easy and inexpensive way to guarantee you stay comfortable so you can focus on the fun for the entire trip. Additionally, we want our youngest rafters to stay cozy, so wetsuits are completely free for all kids aged 12 and under.

Renting high-quality gear is an affordable way to stay comfortable during your adventure. You can rent a standalone wetsuit for just $9 or neoprene booties for $5. Alternatively, many of our guests choose the wetsuit and bootie combo for $12 to ensure their feet stay warm. If the weather is particularly cool, we also offer neoprene long-sleeve jackets for $7. For the best overall value and protection, you can opt for the full setup including a wetsuit, booties, and a jacket for only $17.

We do! If you want to capture the whitewater action completely hands-free, we rent GoPro cameras for $25. We also sell the compatible micro-SD cards right here in the office, so you can take your footage home the second we offload the bus. It’s the best way to record the “splash moments” without risking your own gear. There are also professional photographers stationed at the heaviest whitewater stretches. You can view and purchase these high-res shots at our office immediately after your trip.

All trips meet at our office in Jackson at 180 Powderhorn Lane. Please arrive here first so we can check you in, organize any gear rentals, and provide transportation to the river launch. We have a large parking lot for customers, and plentiful nearby street parking.

Please arrive at the office 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This half-hour window is necessary to handle paperwork, prepare for your trip, and get your rentals sorted without rushing. Our buses depart right on the scheduled trip time.

If you are traveling from the south on Highway 89, you have the option to meet us at the river launch rather than driving into town for whitewater trips. This must be requested by calling our office in advance. Please keep in mind that if you meet us at the river, you must have all digital waivers signed before arrival, and gear rental options will be more limited than what we offer at our main office. Scenic float trips must meet at our office.

You do not need to be a pro, but you should be comfortable in the water. Everyone is required to wear a high-float, Coast Guard-approved life jacket designed to keep your head above water. Your guide will also give you a thorough safety orientation before we ever touch the river.

No. For the safety of everyone on the raft, alcohol is strictly prohibited on our trips. We want you alert and ready to paddle. You are more than welcome to celebrate your run with a drink once we are back in town.

For whitewater trips, two professional photography companies, Floatographs and Snake River Photo, capture shots and video at the largest rapids. By the time you return to our office, they will have uploaded your media for you to view online.

You can purchase high-resolution digital copies directly from their websites. We do not take a commission from either company. You can find your photos at the following links: Snake River Photo and Floatographs.

Not at all. This stretch of the Snake is Class II and III, making it the perfect introduction for beginners and families. We take first-timers down the canyon every single day, and our guides are experts at showing novices exactly what to do. If you’ve rafted before or are just a thrill-seeker looking for a more intense experience, our Small Boat is the way to go. It’s a faster, more responsive ride that puts you right in the heart of the action.

Minimum ages for our adventures depend on the specific trip type and the current river conditions. For our Scenic Float Trips, the minimum age is 3 years old, which makes it a perfect choice for families with toddlers. In addition, our Classic Whitewater trips are available for children aged 6 and up, while the high-intensity Small Boat Whitewater trips require participants to be at least 8 years old. However, please keep in mind that during the high-water season, which typically occurs in May and June, we may increase these age limits to ensure the safety of all our guests.

This stretch of the Snake features Class II and III whitewater — bonafide fun with wet, splashy waves that are exciting but not intimidating. During the spring runoff in May and June, the river is faster and more powerful with higher waves. In the mid-to-late season from July through September, the flow mellows out, leading to longer trips and more technical, technical rapids. You won’t be paddling the entire time; there are plenty of calm stretches between the rapids where you can sit back and take in the canyon scenery.

We run our Small Boats as long as river flows stay below 14,000 cfs in the canyon. If you’re visiting during the peak runoff and the flow hits that safety cutoff, we’ll simply move your group to a Classic Raft and refund you the price difference. We encourage you to book the boat you actually want, and we’ll watch the gauges and handle the logistics if the conditions change.

You will be rafting on a wild river in a remote place. We make every effort to provide the finest and most enjoyable trip possible, but because a wild river is constantly changing, there are inherent risks beyond our control. You will assume responsibility for many decisions affecting your safety during the trip. We do not assume liability for personal injury or deaths, and every guest must sign an acknowledgment of risk before we launch. Our staff will give a thorough safety briefing before every trip. It is vital that you listen to and follow these instructions at all times. Your cooperation ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone on the raft.

If you have a heart condition, back issues, asthma, or are in poor physical condition, you should consult your physician before going on a whitewater trip. If you carry any essential medications, please notify us during check-in or tell your guide directly. We want to ensure your medication is stored in a dry, accessible place on the boat in case you need it.

You can cancel or change your reservation up to 48 hours before your scheduled departure for a full refund. If you cancel within that 48-hour window, we will only issue a refund if we are able to resell those seats to other guests.

For larger parties, we require at least one week’s notice for a full refund or to change your booking date. Because larger groups take up a significant amount of our boat capacity, this window allows us to re-open those seats to other travelers.

Private rafts require one week’s notice for a full refund. Since we pull a specific boat and guide out of our daily rotation specifically for your party, we need this time to re-book that trip if your plans change.

For our Whitewater Trips, we raft rain or shine because getting wet is truly part of the adventure! We never cancel for rain alone, and only severe or dangerous weather will stop a trip in the canyon. Additionally, because our whitewater launch is nearly 25 miles from town, the weather at the river is almost always different than what you see at our office.

In contrast, our Scenic Floats are all about the views, so we will cancel those trips if the weather is consistently inclement. Our scenic launch is located just outside of town, and while the weather is more similar to the office, mountain conditions still shift rapidly.

Because of this, you must check in at your scheduled time for all trips regardless of the local weather. We use real-time Doppler radar to make safety and comfort decisions right at the time of departure rather than sooner. If a cancellation is ultimately necessary, we will make that call at the office before we head out to ensure everyone’s safety.

Our standard capacity is 48 guests for whitewater trips and 30 for scenic floats. If your party exceeds our standard limits, let us know. We may be able to apply for special permits to accommodate everyone on the same departure.

Yes, we offer discounted rates for larger parties of 20 or more. We frequently host wedding parties, youth groups, and church organizations and are happy to help coordinate the logistics for your group. To discuss options and pricing, contact our office at (307) 733-4022 or email us at [email protected].

We recommend booking as early as possible, particularly for groups. Ideally, try to book several months in advance. Jackson Hole summers are busy, and large blocks of seats on a single departure time fill up quickly.

We discontinued our Riverside Cookout dinner whitewater trip and our lunch scenic float in 2020. We are open to collaborating with local restaurants for catered lunches or dinners, with proper notice and planning. Please call our office to discuss options.

If there is anything else you need to know before you hit the water, please give us a call at (307) 733-4022 or email us at [email protected]. We are happy to help you plan the perfect Jackson Hole adventure.