Jackson Hole Whitewater Rafting on the Snake River — 8-Mile Class III Adventure
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate cardiovascular fitness and upper-body strength for active paddling; comfortable with short walks and getting in/out of a raft.
Overview
An 8-mile, Class III whitewater run on the Snake River that balances splashy rapids with scenic float sections. Ideal for families with moderate fitness, guides handle logistics while you trade strokes and stories beneath the Tetons.
Jackson Hole Whitewater Rafting on the Snake River — 8-Mile Class III Adventure
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The raft bounces, then drops—water slaps the tubes like a set of sharp hands—and for a moment the Snake River claims your full attention. You lean into the paddle, shoulder through a stroke, and the guide’s calm voice cuts through the rush: another rapid, another line. Here, less than an hour from downtown Jackson, the river narrows and accelerates, carving through sage and lodgepole pines while the Teton range keeps a distant, watchful profile.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive 30 minutes early
Check in at Hillside Plaza 30 minutes before departure to get fitted with splash gear and catch the safety briefing.
Wear quick-dry layers and water shoes
Expect to get wet; closed-toe water shoes and moisture-wicking layers keep you comfortable on and off the raft.
Secure electronics
Use a small dry bag or leave phones in the vehicle—waterproof cases reduce the risk of loss or damage.
Listen to your guide
Following paddle commands and safety calls prevents flips and keeps the group moving through rapids smoothly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Osprey and bald eagles hunting fish
- Beavers and occasionally river otters along quieter channels
History
The Snake River has long been a travel route for Indigenous peoples and later for trappers and ranchers; modern recreational rafting expanded here in the mid-20th century.
Conservation
Operators limit group sizes and brief guests on Leave No Trace principles; avoid trampling banks and dispose of waste in town to protect riparian habitat.
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Adventure Hotspots in Jackson, WY
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe water shoes
Protects feet on rocky launches and offers traction in wet conditions.
summer specific
Quick-dry base layers
Dries quickly after splashes and keeps you warm during cooler mornings.
Reef-safe sunscreen & lip balm
Protects skin from strong high-elevation sun reflected off the river.
summer specific
Small dry bag or waterproof phone case
Keeps keys, phone, and a light layer dry while on the river.