Snake River Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the Snake River. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Tetons and Snake River Scenic Float Trip In Jackson Hole

• Whitewater Rafting in Jackson Hole: Small Boat Excitement

• Jackson Hole Whitewater Rafting Classic from Jackson Hole,Wyoming

• Whitewater Rafting, Jackson Hole - Family Friendly Classic Raft

• Whitewater Rafting Adventure in Jackson Hole - Classic Boats

If you go without a guide, expect to pay a river use fee of about US$5 per vehicle per day, as well as the cost of the watercraft rental if you don’t own one. You’ll also need a Wyoming Aquatic Invasive Species decal if you’re using your own watercraft, which costs between US$5 and US$30. If you plan on floating within Grand Teton National Park, factor in a permit cost of US$25 per non-motorized vessel or US$75 per motorized craft into your budget, too. Most travelers opt for guided floats because outfitters take care of all of the fees and logistics (shuttle service can be expensive). Expect to pay at least US$100 per person for a guided float that takes 3–4 hours.

Yes, the Snake River is worth floating because it's an excellent way to experience Jackson Hole. Whether you opt for a relaxed trip that allows you to admire the flora, fauna, and Tetons beyond, or brave whitewater rapids like the "Big Kahuna," you'll see this fault-block valley from a unique perspective. If you go on a guided float, expect your guide to point out wildlife along the way, and maybe a few sprawling riverfront homes belonging to celebrities like Harrison Ford.

Per one customer who booked the Whitewater Rafting in Jackson Hole: Small Boat Excitement float, "This is a fun and exciting rafting trip along the beautiful Snake River. We even saw an eagle and osprey overhead battle it out for a fish. Very exciting. Ben was an exceptional guide who was knowledgeable and fun. Dorothy drove the bus to and fro with lots of local information along the way."

Spotting wildlife is a highlight of floating the Snake River—and from bald eagles to osprey, moose, and elk, many species are most active at twilight. Early morning and dusk are two of the best times to float the Snake River, though spectacular wildlife sightings are likely throughout the day.

Most float trips on the Snake River last 2–4 hours—some fishing float trips are full-day adventures. Not all float trips cover the same stretch of river. Trips vary in length, too, and generally cover a distance between 8 miles (13 kilometers) and around 14 miles (23 kilometers).

Yes, you can float the Snake River on your own, but there are good reasons most visitors choose guided excursions. You'll need a permit to float the Snake River, whose braided channels, frequent logjams, and sometimes fast-moving water can complicate navigation. Booking a guided float trip ensures a safe, fun experience.

You don't need specialized gear or a wetsuit for a Snake River float trip. Wear comfortable clothing and soft-soled shoes, and bring a jacket or sweater if it's cool outside. You might also want sunglasses, a brimmed hat for shade, and a bathing suit for swimming on warm and sunny days.

Most float trips happen between May and September. Spring conditions generally mean fast-flowing water, while the height of summer brings warm days and more leisurely conditions. As many wildlife species migrate in spring and autumn, these months are best for spotting animals—though the viewing is great all season.

The most popular tours of the Snake River are float trips, which take in mountain scenery, migrating wildlife, and big views from a stretch of relatively calm water. Other options include adventurous white-water rafting through rippling rapids and guided fishing trips targeting the river's native Snake River fine-spotted cutthroat trout.

There are tons of things to do when you're done floating the Snake River. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in Jackson Hole:

• Yellowstone National Park

• Grand Teton National Park

• National Elk Refuge

• Oxbow Bend

• Jenny Lake Trail

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in Jackson Hole.