Snake River Whitewater Rafting

Classic Whitewater Rafting

Experience classic Snake River whitewater rafting in Jackson Hole with Teton Whitewater in our standard raft that can hold up to 16 people!
Trip Duration: 2.5-3 hours round trip
Price: Standard $115, Children (6-15) $105
Trip Availability: May - September
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Quick-Glance Overview

  • Duration: 8 Miles (Approx. 3 hours round trip, including transportation)
  • Trip Type: Whitewater Rafting (Class III Rapids)
  • Difficulty: Beginner-Friendly
  • Meeting Location: Teton Whitewater Office, Jackson, WY
  • What to Bring: Water bottle, sunscreen, quick-dry clothing
  • Raft Size: Up to 16 riders (12 riders in mid-August for lower flows)
  • Minimum Age: 6 years old (may increase during high water flows)
  • Season: May – September

Highlights

  • Thrilling 8-mile journey with beautiful Snake River Canyon scenery.
  • Push through iconic rapids like Lunch Counter and Big Kahuna.
  • Opportunities to swim in the refreshing, cold waters of the Snake River.
  • Fun for the entire family, with safe and exciting whitewater thrills.
  • Classic rafts for up to 16 riders (seasonal midsized rafts for lower flows).
  • Wildlife sightings along the riverbanks, including bald eagles and osprey.

Classic Snake River Whitewater Rafting

What to Expect

Our classic Snake River whitewater rafting trip will take you on a thrilling adventure that’s perfect for your entire group. The trip is 8 miles of beautiful scenery and whitewater thrills.

Push through rapids like Lunch Counter and Big Kahuna, refresh with a quick swim in the cold water of the Snake River for the bravest of the group, and take in the beautiful scenery of the Snake River Canyon. This adventure is fun for the whole family, and will be sure to leave smiles on everyone’s faces!

Our classic rafts accommodate up to 16 riders and the minimum age requirement is 6 years old. In mid-August, we switch to a mid-sized raft that will accommodate up to 12 people in order to account for the lower water flows. The minimum age for our Snake River whitewater rafting trips may increase during higher water flows. Check out our Snake River flows and water levels page for more information!

To find the perfect trip for you and your group, be sure to take a look at all of our Snake River rafting trips.

Photo Gallery

  • Image (10)
  • big boat snake river whitewater rafting
  • early season rafting on the snake river
  • whitewater rafting on the snake river jackson hole
  • handing out paddles for whitewater rafting
  • classic boat going through a rapid

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!

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 can only refund your payment if we are able to fill the vacated spots.

​​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

“We had the most amazing experience with both the scenic and whitewater rafting adventure! Our scenic guide, Jake, was knowledgeable and kind. Our whitewater raft guide, Spencer, was totally funny, knowledgeable, and personable. An awesome trip indeed!!! Totally recommend.”

Veronica Nelson

“I am not a person who regularly writes reviews, but our family of four had the most amazing experience with Teton Whitewater. 100% of the staff members we encountered were exceptionally friendly and helpful. You can tell that the employees care about making sure the rafting experience is fun and exciting for everyone. The bathrooms and rented wetsuits were clean and in good condition. I had some questions before the trip and my emails were always answered within 15 minutes of when I sent them. Our guide, Spencer, was outstanding. It was obvious that he was experienced and knowledgeable. Our raft had a great time getting to know each other and Spencer made sure he got to know each of us, as well. As we drove away after the trip my two teenagers said that this experience was the coolest thing we have ever done on a trip. Thank you all for the great family experience that will last a lifetime.” 

Abigail Turgeon

“Most fun I have had in years! Awesome adventure with the best staff imaginable. I could not have been happier with my experience.”

Eric Banks

“Just an all around great experience! The staff is so kind and friendly. I felt like I was among friends from the moment I walked in the door. The float was beautiful. The bus ride had great music. I felt like safety was a high priority throughout the entire event. Everyone in our group left with a smile and some incredible memories. Thanks so much for an awesome river experience!!”

John Parker

“Super fun! The guides make it such a fun and different experience from some of the other companies in town! This is the one to use for sure!”

Tanner Pursley

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. Avoid cotton and 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.

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 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 of fewer than 10 people, cancellation is allowed up to 48 hours before your trip day and time, and for groups of 10 or more people, cancellation is allowed up to one week before your trip day and time. Trips canceled after these times will not be eligible for a refund.

WHAT IF WATER LEVELS CHANGE DURING SEASON?

If the water rises in the spring, we may raise the age minimum. All adjustments are flow-dependent, and you can always check current conditions on our water level page.
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