Jackson Hole Rafting
Small Boat Slam Whitewater
Quick-Glance Overview
- Duration: 8 Miles (Approx. 3 hours round trip, including transportation)
- Difficulty: Moderate (Bigger waves and more splashes!)
- Boat Size: 8-Person Paddle Rafts, 6 People Paddle
- Meeting Location: Teton Whitewater Office, Jackson, WY
- Minimum Age: 8 Years Old (subject to water conditions)
- Safety Note: Age minimum increase and larger rafts used above 14,000 CFS
- What to Bring: Quick-dry clothing, water shoes, sunscreen
- Season: May – September
Highlights
- Ride in 8-person paddle rafts for maximum splash and excitement. We have the smallest boats in the Snake River Canyon!
- Push through every wave for a thrilling Snake River whitewater experience.
- Perfect for adventure-seekers who want more action on the river.
- Learn paddling techniques and river safety from certified guides.
- Enjoy stunning views of the Snake River Canyon and its surrounding wildlife.
- Family-friendly fun with a minimum age of 8 years old.
Small Boat Jackson Hole Rafting
What to Expect
Experience bigger splashes and bigger thrills on our Small Boat Slam adventure. With smaller, 8-person paddle rafts, you’ll feel every splash as you hit iconic Snake River rapids. Our certified guides will teach you paddling techniques, river safety, and how to navigate through exciting stretches of the river.
This Jackson Hole rafting trip is perfect for thrill-seekers who want a high-energy experience. Expect to hit more waves, take in the beauty of Snake River Canyon, and maybe even cool off with a refreshing swim if you’re feeling brave. While the minimum age is 8 years old, safety is our top priority, and we may use larger rafts if water levels exceed 14,000 CFS.
Bring your friends, family, and a sense of adventure for this unforgettable ride on one of Wyoming’s most iconic rivers!
Jackson Hole Rafting Photo Gallery
Recommended Gear
You should plan to get wet during your Jackson Hole whitewater rafting trip! Here are some key recommendations to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience:
What to Wear:
- Quick-dry clothes or swimsuits (avoid cotton materials).
- Wetsuits for colder days (available upon request).
- Rain jackets for rainy weather.
- Shoes that stay on your feet and are comfortable when wet (required).
What to Bring:
- Snacks and water for before & after your trip. You can bring your water bottle on the raft, but there is no guarantee it will stay in the boat!
- A dry set of clothes for after your trip.
- Sunscreen (apply before your trip).
What to Leave Behind:
- Cameras and phones (two professional companies take photos and videos at the largest rapids; information on purchasing will be provided after your trip.
- Personal items can stay on the bus during your float!
Restrooms and changing rooms are available at the office for your convenience. Be sure to hydrate before your trip. All necessary safety gear and equipment will be provided.
Cancellation Policy
- Standard Trips: 48-hour cancellation policy for a full refund.
- Groups of 10+: 1-week cancellation policy for a full refund.
- Groups of 32+: 1-month cancellation policy for a full refund.
We are limited by the National Forest Service in the number of people we can bring down the Snake River on a trip. If you cancel within the allowed window, we will provide a full refund. However, if you cancel outside this timeframe, we are unable to provide a refund.
Bridger-Teton National Forest Snake River Special Recreation Permit
Beginning in the 2025 season, the Bridger-Teton National Forest will implement a Special Recreation Permit of $3/person ages 16 and older. Special Recreation Permits are issued to ensure extra measures are required for natural and cultural resource protection, the health and safety of visitors, or to allocate capacity and/or disperse recreation use. The Bridger-Teton National Forest intends to use the Snake River Special Recreation Permit Fee proceeds to:
- Enhance the safety and overall experience of recreational users of the river canyon,
- Facilitate, sustain, and maintain needed services due to increasing use levels,
- Pursue facility changes that offset impacts, and
- Further establish Wild & Scenic River monitoring, mitigation, education, and fortification programs designed to reduce the impacts of increased recreation on water quality, fish, wildlife, scenery, and other outstandingly remarkable values in the corridor.
The Special Recreation Permit fee is included in Teton Whitewaters pricing for our Standard Ticket (ages 16 and older).
Reviews From Our Guests
Frequently Asked Questions
HOW EARLY SHOULD I BOOK MY TRIP?
We encourage you to make your booking as soon as possible just to make sure you secure your spot!
The larger your group or family, the earlier you should book. For groups less than 10 people you can call and cancel and get a full refund as long as you do so at least 48 hours (two days) before your trip. For groups over 10 people, the same rule applies except you must call and cancel at least one week before your trip.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR/BRING FOR THE WHITEWATER TRIP?
For whitewater rafting, expect to get wet and dress for quick-dry comfort. It’s always smart to plan for changing weather.
- Wear a swimsuit or quick-dry layers (avoid cotton).
- Bring secure shoes that won’t fall off — no flip-flops.
- Pack sunscreen, sunglasses with a strap, and a towel/change of clothes for after.
- Wetsuits are available and recommended on cooler days.
HOW IS THIS TRIP DIFFERENT FROM YOUR STANDARD WHITEWATER TRIP?
The Small Boat Slam features an 8-person raft instead of the 16-person raft used on the standard whitewater trip. Because the boat and group size is smaller, you’ll experience bigger splashes and a more action-packed ride. The minimum age for the Small Boat Slam is 8 years old, whereas the classic 16-person raft has a minimum age of 6 years old.
WHAT IS THE MINIMUM AGE FOR THE SMALL BOAT SLAM?
During normal water levels, the minimum age for the Small Boat Slam is 8 years old. This can change in high water levels, so be sure to check out our water level page to stay up to date.
IS THIS TRIP SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS/FAMILIES?
Yes, beginners and families are welcome! Because the raft is smaller than on our classic trip, you can expect bigger splashes and a more hands-on paddling experience. Guests should be comfortable getting wet and ready to paddle as directed.
WHAT CLASS OF RAPIDS ARE ON THE SNAKE RIVER?
The Snake River is a Class II-III stretch, making it an intermediate run. There is plenty of splash for the adventurous, but it is friendly enough for beginners.
Be aware that high or low water flows can change river conditions and the experience you might have. Stay informed, and plan your trip accordingly. Our safety record is top-notch, and we focus on mitigating risk, and always put safety first.
WHAT IF WATER LEVELS CHANGE DURING THE SEASON?
In general, we do not run small boats at high water levels. If water levels are too high, guests will be moved to a Classic 16-Person Raft and refunded the price difference. All adjustments are flow-dependent, and you can always check current conditions on our water levels page.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WHITEWATER TRIPS AND SCENIC TRIPS?
Our Scenic Float is a relaxing 13-mile stretch on the Snake River near Wilson. It’s a calm, no-rapids section designed for taking in views of the Tetons and spotting wildlife like bald eagles, moose, and beavers. This trip stays smooth and mellow, perfect for guests who want a peaceful experience on the water.
Our Whitewater Trip covers an 8-mile stretch of Class II–III rapids, including Big Kahuna, Lunch Counter, Ropes, and Champagne for a fast-paced, splash-filled adventure.
Both trips include experienced guides and offer different ways to enjoy the Snake River. If you want the best of both worlds, you can book our full-day Combo Trip, which includes both the scenic float and the whitewater rafting experience.
WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?
For groups less than 10 people cancellation is allowed up to 48 hours before your trip day and time, for groups of 10 or more people cancellation is allowed up to one week before your trip day and time. Anything canceled after these times will not be eligible for a refund.
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