Paddle Adventures with Star Valley Raft and Paddle in Etna, WY

The Salt River winds through the rugged landscape of western Wyoming’s Star Valley, offering a dynamic playground for water enthusiasts. Based in Etna, Star Valley Raft and Paddle brings hands-on lessons and guided tours that spotlight this scenic riparian corridor’s unique aquatic trails. From stand up paddleboarding and kayaking to paddle rafting and oar rafting, every trip is a chance to navigate calm waters framed by cottonwoods and willows, with soaring peaks just beyond the valley floor.

The Salt River Riparian area is a rare stretch where river meets wetland, creating a diverse habitat with clear waters and abundant birdlife. Star Valley Raft and Paddle capitalizes on this quiet yet invigorating setting, offering expertly led tours that double as outdoor classrooms. Their Power Hour and introductory lessons for kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and rafting set newcomers up with essential skills, while the paddle rafting and oar rafting lessons cater to those seeking more immersive control and teamwork on the water.

Etna is an unassuming gateway to Wyoming’s backcountry; its proximity to the Salt River Range and Bridger-Teton National Forest means wildlife sightings and wildflower blooms often accompany your float. The company’s small group focus helps keep the experience intimate, directing attention to local geography, native species, and safe paddling techniques. The low-gradient river sections provide a comfortable setting for beginners but with enough variation to challenge intermediate paddlers.

Unique for its blend of riparian ecology and accessible watercraft instruction, Star Valley Raft and Paddle offers a chance to get familiar with river navigation while soaking in a less-traveled slice of Wyoming’s outdoors. For those traveling from Jackson, just 30 minutes away, the trip offers a refreshing shift from mountain hikes or ski slopes to a mellow river journey rich with natural history and paddling progress.