snake river rafting trips

5 of the Best Snake River Whitewater Rafting Trips

Snake River coils its way through six states until it feeds into the Columbia River and eventually the Pacific. With its source in Wyoming, the plentiful meltwaters have helped carve some excellent gorges through the eons, which in turn have proven sufficiently challenging to humans in search of a thrill. The river offers up plenty of whitewater rapids to suit varying levels of experience; varying appetites for adrenaline. Jackson Hole is a popular access point for Snake River whitewater rafting experiences.

Beneath the lofty peaks of the Teton Range near Jackson Hole, Snake River winds its way closer to the ocean, offering a stunning backdrop and plenty of chances to spot wildlife along the way. Here are three of the best whitewater rafting trips on Snake River, taking into account many factors including thrill, itinerary, health and safety, and the reviews of previous white-knuckled guests. Please note that all of these tours operate from mid-June to mid-September only. Tour operators implement age and health background restrictions to ensure the safety of all.

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Snake River Rafting & Float Trips

Jackson hole rafting & float trip packages.

Individual Trips, Combo Trips, & Gift Certificates for Snake River rafting in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

16 Person Boat

Classic whitewater rafting.

Our classic Snake River whitewater rafting trip is perfect for those looking to raft in a larger group and wanting to hit some fun rapids such as the Lunch Counter and The Big Kahuna!

The Classic Whitewater rafting trip is 2.5-3 hours round trip, and there is room for 8-10 paddlers as well as room in the middle of the boat if you don’t want to paddle. Like all of our other Jackson Hole whitewater rafting trips, you will be provided with all of the safety gear you need, and your experienced and certified guide will instruct you on river safety and how to get the most fun out of your Snake River rafting adventure. The minimum age requirement is 6 years old, but this may change during the summer when the river is at its highest.

Adults $105 Children (6-12) $95

8 Person Boat

Small boat slam whitewater.

This is the Snake River rafting trip for you if you’re feeling adventurous! Our Small Boat Slam boasts the smallest Jackson Hole whitewater rafting commercial boats on the river. The smaller the boat, the bigger the hit!

This Jackson Hole rafting trip is 2.5-3 hours long, and our raft has enough room for 6 paddlers and a couple of bull riders. All safety gear is provided, as well as round-trip transportation. The minimum age for the Small Boat Slam is 8 years old, but it may be increased in the summer depending on how high the river is.

Adults & Children (8-12) $115

with views of the Teton range (ages 4 and up)

Wilson scenic float.

Our Snake River float trip allows you to relax and let our experienced guide do the work for you.

This 13-mile trip on the Snake River follows along the south border of Grand Teton National Park, which is known for its immense beauty and being the best bald eagle habitat in the Lower 48. Along the Snake River float trip, our guide will teach you about the area, the wildlife, and the history of the Grand Teton all while floating through some of the best scenery in the country. You might also see some moose, deer, elk, coyotes, beavers, or marmots on the trip, as well as an abundance of avian wildlife, such as pelicans and osprey.

Adults $90 Children (4-12) $80

8 & 16 Person Boat

Whitewater rafting & float trip combo.

Hit adrenaline-rushing rapids and see amazing views on our combo Jackson Hole whitewater rafting adventure!

Choose the size of the boat for your snake river whitewater rafting trip, and go on a scenic Snake River float trip with views of Grand Teton National Park! Lunch, transportation, and equipment are all included, and the trip is 7.5 hours long.

The Combo Trip time options are as follows:

Classic Boat & Wilson Scenic Adults $190 Children (6-12) $170

Small boat & wilson scenic adults $200 children (8-12) $190.

Buy a trip for your friends & family!

Whitewater rafting & float trip gift cards.

Whether you want to treat your friends and family to a nice float trip on the Snake River or a thrilling Jackson Hole rafting adventure, a gift card from Teton Whitewater will be sure to put a smile on your loved one’s face.

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Jackson’s highest-rated and most-loved rafting trips

Since 1967, Dave Hansen River Trips has provided exciting whitewater rafting and scenic river trips on the Snake River for kids from 6-96 (true story) in Jackson Hole Wyoming . We will work harder than any other rafting guide on the Snake River to make sure you have a safe, fun, and fantastic experience from start to finish. Every employee, from the front desk staff to the senior guide, shares the same goal – to provide you with the best possible river rafting adventure! Our compassion for our rafting community is evident, as we’ve been honored to have been voted the Best Rafting Company in Jackson Hole for twelve consecutive years, are rated #1 on Trip Advisor , and have a 4.9 star rating on Google with over 3,500 reviews!

Whitewater Rafting Adventures

Whether you’re confident in a raft or holding a paddle for the first time, our 8-mile whitewater trip is the perfect Jackson Hole adventure. Rafters age 6 + will laugh and splash through class II and III rapids on an unforgettable trip down the wild and scenic Snake River Canyon.

Snake River Scenic Float Trips

Cruise along the beautiful Snake River on a dry and comfortable ride. Bring your camera to capture the magnificent views of the Teton and Snake River Mountains and keep your eyes peeled to spot a moose wading in a back eddy or an osprey diving in the calm waters. Bald eagle sightings are almost a guarantee on this stretch as there are over 8 nests.

What trip should I choose?

Compare trips.

There’s no wrong way to go down the river with Dave Hansen Whitewater & Scenic River Trips as your guide. Find out what trip is best for you by compare trips below. Visit our scenic and whitewater trips pages for more details.

8 Mile Whitewater Rafting Trip (Standard Raft)

• 3.5-4 hours door-to-door from Jackson
• 1.5 hours on the river (flow dependent)
• 14-16 people per raft, with 8-10 paddlers
• Minimum age: 6 years old
• Will I get wet? Yes!
• No experience required!
• Canyon views

8 Mile Whitewater Rafting Trip (8 Person Raft)

• 8 people per raft, with everyone paddling

Tetons and Snake River 13 Mile Scenic Float Trip

• 3.25 hours door-to-door from Jackson
• 2 hours on the river (flow dependent)
• 10 seats per raft
• Minimum age: 4 years old
• Will I get wet? Not unless you opt in for a swim.
• Teton views

Looking for more photos and videos?

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Current Conditions on the Snake River

The best guides on the river.

Our river guides work their Chacos off to make sure you have a fantastic adventure. With big hearts and big smiles, our lively river guides will keep you laughing through every twist and turn on the Snake River. Every river guide completes the Dave Hansen Guide School which provides rigorous, hands-on river safety and river ecology training.

Bryce Thornberry

Delaney Harrop

Brian Becerra

Lauren Carlson

Zach Williams

Jacob Meidl

Miles Richmond

Melissa Kussy

Callie Lajza

Eagen Keeley

Questions just ask..

None! Roughly half of our customers that we take down the river have never been whitewater rafting. All of our guides know this and go over a very detailed safety speech in which they will personally go around and show you how to sit and the best ways to keep yourself in the boat. To help ease some nerves, there are two great benefits to this river for first-timers. The first half of the trip is fairly mellow. You’ll get wet, but it is not too daunting. This allows you the time to get used to being in the boat. You are not going to be thrown into the boat and hit the biggest wave of the trip in the first five minutes. The second half of the trip is where all the bigger waves are. The other nice thing about the Snake River is that it is classified as a “Pool and drop river”, which basically means that after every section of waves, you are going to have a nice calm section afterwards before you hit your next set of waves. So you have time to sit back and relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the canyon between waves. The people who were nervous usually have the best time!

For whitewater our age limit for kids is usually 6 years old, there are some times of the year we could talk about adventurous 5 year olds. Just give us a call! For our scenic trips the youngest we will take is 4 years old.

There are certain water levels during the run-off season where we may raise our age limit. Please give us a call to discuss if you have more questions.

Our river trips leave as scheduled rain or shine. Don’t worry we are prepared! Find our rafting in rain the resources here. For whitewater we have wetsuits and booties available to rent that will make the trip enjoyable!  For the scenic, if a storm happens to come in we have ponchos on all the boats. However, we reserve the right to cancel or shorten a trip due to extreme weather conditions that would cause the trip to be unsafe. Whitewater rafting is a wet activity by nature, and assuming that you are dressed appropriately, we think this is the best outdoor activity for a rainy day! I f that is something you are not comfortable with, it is the responsibility of the party to cancel outside of our respective cancellation polices to receive a full refund.

"Super fun outing. Professional operation from start to finish. With so my outfits running trips down the Snake it is hard to know which one to pick. Save yourself the stress of trying to compare them all and just go with Dave Hansen Whitewater - you won’t be disappointed." Craig Anderson

"The whitewater trip was the highlight of my vacation. The river is the perfect amount of adventure and excitement for all to enjoy. The Dave Hanson team made it all great with fun personalities. I like the personal touches shown by this company." Kai Geller

"I am obsessed with the Dave Hansen Whitewater crew! Hannah at the front desk was friendly and very helpful setting up our white water! Our guide was knowledgeable of the area and a pro! He made everyone feel very safe and comfortable! Would highly recommend to anyone visiting Jackson!" Amelia Nolan

"The folks at Dave Hansen take care of everything! From the moment we arrived til it was time to go - we were in great hands!" Brett Saxon

"What an adventure! The staff were so helpful and our guide, Hunter, made our outing so much fun! We spotted lots of Osprey on the route and the scenery was just incredible. This was the best part of our vacation in Jackson. You won’t be disappointed if you choose Dave Hansen Whitewater." Matt Nickson

"What a five star rafting experience! Everyone was friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. The bus ride tour compliments of Gene was fun and informative. McKenzie our guide was friendly and a fun teacher. I highly recommend Dave Hansen Whitewater Rafting!👍 👍 👍 " Karen Morrow

"This place seriously has the best staff that make the trip outstanding. They guide you through the waters and even provided lunch for us. The float is several hours and worth every minute! I am already excited for this summer so I can go again!" Wyatt Woods

"This was one of the highlights of my summer! Such a fun, exciting trip down the Snake River. Our guide Hayden made it enjoyable for all of us. Between his knowledge of the river and his enthusiasm for big rapids, the trip was a great experience!" Peter Elliott

"We had an amazing family outing with Dave Hansen Whitewater Rafting! It was a seamless process from check-in to check-out and great action photos to relive the whole adventure. We'll definitely be back!" Laura Romero

"Amazing experience and company! Highly suggest using Dave Hansen Whitewater! Our guide made it a fun and memorable trip. Also the owner is awesome and they truly want you to have a great experience! Don't look to any other company, use these guys when in Jackson Hole!" Corey Westra

"What an amazing experience! Everyone was extremely helpful and we could tell that their goal was for us to have a great experience. And we did! Jordan was our guide and he was great. He was very engaging and made it really fun. We would definitely use this company again!" Amy Horner

"The Dave Hansen Whitewater staff made our family rafting trip down the Snake River one of the best events of our vacation! Our guide, Grace, was excellent! Felt very safe. We loved every minute being on the river with her." Michelle Manwaring

"So much family fun! From the minute we walked in the door we were greeted with fun upbeat and helpful staff. We had Sandy as a guide he was funny, knowledgeable and really cared for our safety. I would love to come back for an all day trip. Highly recommend!!" Christy Grosz

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Snake River Park Rafting

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Snake River

About snake river rafting.

• Raft in Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest river canyon (yes, even deeper than the Grand Canyon)!
• Snake River Rafting surrounding mountain tops reach 9,393 ft (Seven Devils Mountain) and fall nearly 8,000 ft to the river positioned at ~1,400 ft.
• We offer several Snake River rafting specialty trips: Women’s Wellness & Rafting, Flying Fish Restaurant Partnership Trip and Fishing & Hunting rafting trips
• Raft the Wild & Scenic section of the world renowned river.
• Side hikes including Suicide Point in the Seven Devils Mountains.
• Excellent Snake River fishing opportunities for bass, trout, sturgeon, and steelhead.
• Diverse wildlife – bighorn sheep, chukar flocks and bald eagles.

The Wild and Scenic Snake River is a bucket list river for whitewater rafters and outdoor enthusiasts. As the deepest river canyon in North America (deeper than the Grand Canyon) Hells Canyon features incredible views with a 8,000ft drop from surrounding mountain tops to the river. This world renowned river offers unforgettable multi-day rafting and camping expeditions that seamlessly blend tranquil stretches with thrilling Class III rapids.

As the largest and longest river in the Pacific Northwest, the Snake River meanders through breathtaking landscapes, boasting an impressive 112 miles of National Wild and Scenic River designation. Wild and Scenic Rivers like the Snake River are meticulously preserved and cherished for their unobstructed flow, pristine water quality, and exceptional scenic, recreational, and ecological values, including vibrant aquatic habitats and diverse wildlife. The Snake River joined this revered group through its designation in 1975.

The Snake River Oregon stands tall as a premier destination for whitewater rafting and outdoor exploration. Our rafting trips launch from our outpost in Eastern Oregon, run along the Oregon, Idaho border and offer a thrilling variety of rapids suitable for all experience levels.

Let's Go Snake River Rafting

4 day river rafting & camping trip.

• Location: Halfway, OR / Eastern Oregon
• Duration: 4 Days, 3 Nights
• Level: Class III, Intermediate,

4 Day Women's Wellness Retreat

• Min Age: 14+ years

4 Day Fishing & Hunting Trip

• Min Age: 14

Flying Fish Company Specialty Trip

WHY GO Snake River Rafting

Tributary’s Snake River white water rafting trips feature rafting in Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest river canyon where mountain tops reach 9,393 ft (Seven Devils Mountain) and fall nearly 8,000 ft to the river positioned at ~1,400 ft. The river is world renowned for its excellent fishing, home to bass, trout, sturgeon, and steelhead. In addition to its diverse fish population the Snake River basin boasts an array of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, bald eagles, whooping cranes, and even the occasional grizzly bear.

There are options throughout the trip to explore side hikes  including Suicide Point in the Seven Devils Mountains and view ancient petroglyphs right from the river.

Tributary offers several different trips on the Snake River including the 4 Day Women’s Wellness Retreat, 4 Day Wilderness Raft trip and a 4 Day Fishing & Hunting trip. Snake River rafting trips include side hikes, swimming, fishing, but also the opportunity to sit back and enjoy the sun setting and rising each day, making it an amazing vacation.

The Hells Canyon multi day rafting trips are perfect for families ages 7+ while the Women’s Wellness Snake River multi day rafting trips are geared for ages 14+ (girls trip anyone?!). Snake river fishing is a super popular activity during any trip and those wanting to make that a focus of their rafting adventure will want to check out our Fishing & Hunting trips.

Looking for other whitewater rafting trip options? Check out Owyhee River rafting located in Eastern Oregon south of the Snake River.

We can also extend our wilderness and fishing trips from a 4 day trip to a 6 day vacation – just ask!

History & Wildlife

Hells Canyon, which the Snake River flows through, is the deepest river gorge in North America. It was formed over millions of years ago through a combination of geological processes, including volcanic activity, tectonic plate movements, and erosion.

The Snake River itself was named by the Shoshone tribe, who lived in the area. They called the river “Yin-suti-pa,” which means “coiled serpent” in reference to its winding course. Over time, early European-American settlers began referring to it as the “Snake River,” likely because of this description.

There are a few theories about how the naming of Hells Canyon came about. One of the more common explanations is that the name reflects the harsh, inaccessible nature of the canyon. Early travelers and settlers likely found the steep, rocky terrain and extreme temperature variations reminiscent of a ‘hellish’ landscape.

The Snake River Canyon unveils a remarkable ecological tapestry. It boasts a notable concentration of rare and endemic plant species, like Macfarlane’s four-o’clock, bartonberry, prickly pear, and vibrant wildflowers, setting it apart in the Pacific Northwest and western North America.

Within this area diverse wildlife thrives in various habitats creating one of the nation’s most diverse ecosystems. Elevation fluctuations, ranging from 1,500 feet along the Snake River and to 9,393 feet in Idaho’s Seven Devils Mountains, allow distinct plant communities to flourish side by side. These habitats, in turn, provide homes for a variety of wildlife families, totaling around 350 species that call this area home throughout the year.

The Snake River’s renown extends to its diverse fish population. A distinguished sport fishery, it is celebrated for sturgeon, salmon, steelhead, rainbow trout, and walleye. Of special note is Hells Canyon’s role as a sanctuary for immense white sturgeon, some reaching over 1,000 pounds.

The richness of the canyon’s biodiversity is not limited to flora and fish. A captivating array of wildlife flourishes here, including peregrine falcons, bald eagles, big horn sheep, mountain goats, chukar flocks, black bears, and mountain lions. This vibrant mix of species adds to the allure of the canyon, establishing it as a truly exceptional and multifaceted natural gem.

QUESTIONS ABOUT Snake River Rafting

Where should I stay in Halfway Oregon the night before my trip starts?

The Pine Valley Lodge: We recommend our guests stay here for your night before trip lodging. After our meet & greet dinner enjoy an evening at the Pine Valley Lodge. Breakfast the following morning is included at this location.

Halfway Motel & RV Park: Another great place to stay in Halfway.

What Class rapids are on the Snake River?

The rapids on the Snake River are rated Class II-III during normal flows. Some springs will see higher flows up to Class IV when snowpack levels and runoff are above normal.

Where is the Snake River located?

The Snake River flows through several states in the United States, including Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. It journeys through diverse landscapes, from rugged canyons to expansive valleys. This portion of the Snake River holds stories from the Oregon Trail, the legendary Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the deep-rooted histories of the Nez Perce and Shoshone Native American tribes. Inhabitants have cherished and called this region home for over 11,000 years, leaving behind a tapestry of cultures and legacies that enrich the river’s journey.

Where does the Snake River start and finish?

The Snake River originates in Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming and carves its way through the picturesque landscapes of the Rocky Mountains before eventually merging with the Columbia River in Washington state where it eventually flows into the Pacific Ocean. It spans over 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers), making it one of the longest rivers in the United States.

What to do on the Snake River?

The Snake River invites a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. From whitewater rafting and kayaking to serene fishing excursions, there’s something for everyone. You can also explore its stunning surroundings by hiking its scenic trails or simply relaxing by its tranquil waters.

How long is the typical Snake River rafting trip?

A typical Snake River rafting journey covers several days, offering an immersive experience of nature’s wonders. Our rafting trips often span 4-days and 3-nights, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the river’s beauty and excitement. Ask us about making the trip a 6 day vacation!

What makes the Snake River unique?

The Snake River is renowned for its rich history, diverse ecosystems, and captivating landscapes. It has carved deep canyons, nurtured abundant wildlife, and is a world renowned Wild & Scenic River.

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Acknowledging ancestral lands.

As we journey down the Snake River, we’ll pass through lands rich in history and culture. These territories belong to the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce), The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation: Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla, as well as the Palouse Tribes represented by the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation. Recognizing these communities is a way of honoring their legacy, their lives, and their descendants.

Acknowledging the Indigenous communities whose lands we visit is a crucial step in understanding our shared history and the ongoing challenges faced by these populations today. For more insight, visit our Territory Acknowledgement page. We encourage you to learn about the people whose land we’re privileged to explore by following the links above.

Our Territory Acknowledgement is an evolving project. If you find missing information or acknowledgments, please share it with us. Together, we can ensure accuracy, inclusivity, and respect. Thank you.

Get In Touch

Tributary whitewater, incredible river experiences.

We launch trips on many different rivers in California, Oregon and Idaho. For questions give our main office a call – we would love to talk with you about our trips and rivers.

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the Rivers we run

Our vision is to create a sustainable and equitable reality where our rivers are enjoyed and protected, a place where families and friends can be inspired and challenged.

Tributary Whitewater Tours has been running rivers since we were first founded in 1978. Since we opened 40+ years ago we have expanded to include Adventure Connection, Mariah Wilderness Expeditions, High Desert River Outfitters, Canyon Outfitters and are the parent company of Raft California and Raft Oregon. While some things have changed over the years, Tributary remains a family-run small business with the same passion for the river and the mission of leading others to experience it.

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Tributary Whitewater Tours is a permitted outfitter under the National Forest Service, the CA Dept. of Parks & Recreation, Nevada County, El Dorado County and Bureau of Land Management. Tributary Whitewater Tours is an Equal Opportunity Service Provider.

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Hells Canyon Rafting

• Snake River
• May through September

3 Day Hells Canyon Rafting Trip

Epic snake river wilderness adventure.

Snake River Rafting trips have it all. Everything about a Hells Canyon rafting trip can be summed up in one word, AWESOME. The deepest canyon in North America, and one of the largest Wilderness Areas. The Snake River offers the best whitewater of any river trip in the N.W. Rafting Hells Canyon offers the adventurous spirit a unique combination of activities with great hiking, world class fishing and jaw dropping panoramas of one of nature’s most impressive creations. Our Snake River rafting trip takes you through 38 miles of the deepest section of the Canyon to the takeout at Pittsburgh Landing.

Hiking opportunities are everywhere taking you through dense vegetation to spectacular overlooks and vistas.

Pictographs and History left by the Nez Perce Indians are abundant along with the many historical cabins left by the early pioneers. Tour the Kirkwood Historical site where the USFS has collected many items from the canyon’s early inhabitants and natural treasures.

Fishing on the Snake River boasts some of the best Small Mouth Bass and Sturgeon fishing found anywhere. This is truly paradise for the adventurous angler with Sturgeon averaging 6 to 8 feet, Small Mouth Bass virtually every few minutes and Rainbow trout mixed in.

Gourmet Meals and Professional Guides Our exceptional back country accommodations and our exclusive gourmet river kitchen insures our clients the best rafting trip experience available. The truth is that you don’t have to rough it to be able to enjoy the beauty and excitement of Idaho’s wild and scenic Snake River. Let our professional guides pamper you and your family while enjoying the serenity of the canyon and the thrill of the whitewater.

Trip Details

River rating.

Depending on water levels.

Minimum Age

Dependent on normal water flows

Day 1 »» The team leader will meet you at 6:30 am, where a three hour scenic ride will bring you to to the launch point at Hell’s Canyon Dam and the start of the Wilderness. At rivers edge you will recieve a safety orientation that will prepare you for the adventure. You’re ready to paddle, ride an oar-powered raft, or paddle your own inflatable kayak. Two class IV rapids, Wild Sheep and Granite, will challenge your whitewater skills just a few miles down river, with smaller rapids spread out to give you a feel for the river. Camps are usually arrived at by 4pm each afternoon, allowing time for more great bass fishing, hiking or relaxing. Hors d’oeuvres are served about an hour before dinner, usually served around 7:30 pm.

Day 2 »» Freshly brewed coffee greets your senses at about 6 am, with our morning spread that is complete with all the ussual morning drinks and condiments. Breakfast is ready around 7:30am, relax in a camp chair with your favorite hot drink while gazing in wonder at this amazing canyon. Personal gear, tents and kitchen gear is loaded back on the boats and readied for a day filled with many great rapids, fishing, settler’s cabins, and incredible mountain scenery.

Day 3 »» Some might enjoy a rare view of the Snake River and Hell’s Canyon as reward for choosing to hike the trail to “Suicide Point”. Others are ready to catch a few more fish using top water lures or grubs. You’ll welcome a splash from the river as the boats group back up and float downstream to more impressive scenery and historic sites, including the historic Kirkwood Ranch. After lunch and more river fun we pass Pittsburgh Landing where some of the trip might depart early.

What's Included

Prepare to be Pampered Every day after your journey down the Snake River you will arrive at a new camp each day, our guides will immediately provide sun shade and have dinning area ready and chairs available for lounging, playing games or relaxing in the shade. Your tent will be set up, sleeping pad inflated. Our kitchen and dinning area will be serving your favorite hot or cold drinks – What a life!

All Snake River Hells Canyon rafting trips with Mountain River Outfitters receive:

• Transportation to and from the river from Riggins, Idaho.
• All camping gear, including high-quality, roomy tents and thick, comfortable sleeping pads.
• Delicious meals, we customize our menu for each group to meet gluten-free, vegetarian and other dietary needs.
• Fun and experienced guides with years of rafting on Idaho rivers to help give you the trip of a lifetime.

Where To Meet

With MRO you will only need to find yourself in Riggins at the Mountain River Outdoor Center the night before your launch date before 8:00 PM Mountain Time for a pre trip orientation. You will receive your complimentary MRO duffel and trip mug that you will keep as a souvenir at the end of your adventure. A personal dry bag and large camp bag with sleeping bag and pillow will be provided for you for the trip. There will be plenty of time to ask the guide any questions or purchase last minute items you may need for your trip at the Outdoor Center. The next morning you will be transported to the launch site where your rafts and guides will be waiting.

Let Us Help - Pre Trip Travel and Multi Sport Options

There are many travel options to consider in planning your Idaho rafting vacation. Simply give us a call and we’ll discuss your options and help arrange everything for you.

Multi-Sport Packages available with many of our other adventure activities and wilderness lodging. Choose from Jet Boat tours on the Salmon or Snake River, Fishing or Wilderness Escapes at the Ram House or China Bar Lodge. If you would like our staff to help with additional lodgings with us or local motels we will be glad to assist you.

Trip Packages and Rates

3 Day Hells Canyon Wilderness Trip Adults ...$1,095.00 | Youth ...$895.00 (7-14)

Or Call: (888) 547-4837

Related Rafting Trips

3 day "canyons" raft trip, 5 day main salmon, print or download a summary of this trip, the guests have spoken.

Over 161 Excellent Reviews

Find us on tripadvisor, over 100 reviews, like us on facebook, idaho's premier adventure travel outfitter, the mro difference.

No other Snake River Rafting outfitter offers our quality, professionalism and methods for ensuring exceptional service and attention to detail. We know what makes the perfect river vacation, and we are committed to providing this for every trip. We have the lowest guide to guest ratio to ensure personalized attention and uncrowded boats.

• The Best Gear and Boats
• Personalized Service
• Proffessional Guides
• Multi-Sport Packages
• Family Oriented

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Contact Information

• Mountain River Outfitters 1323 S Main St.; Riggins, Idaho 83549
• 1 (888) 547-4837 or (208) 628-3733
• [email protected]
• 1 Day White Water Rafting
• Main Salmon Rafting
• Lower Salmon Rafting

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Idaho’s Premier Wilderness Outfitter    –     Escape …the Ordinary!

Jess and Brenda Baugh owners/operators of Mountain River Outfitters dba S & S River Outfitters operates under a special use permit with the Salmon-Challis National Forest for Main Salmon River (SA-6) float boating.  Salmon River Tours dba S & S River Outfitters operates under a special use permit with the Salmon-Challis National Forest for Main Salmon River (SA-6 and SA-5) jet boating and associated activities. Mountain River Outfitters LLc., Dba S&S River Outfitters operates under several USFS and BLM special use permits for Hells Canyon National Recreation Area Wallowa Whitman National Forest, Nez Perce National Forest, BLM Lower Salmon River Cottonwood Field Office (SN12, SN14, SA7A, SA7B, SA7C, SA8). Mountain River Outfitters, LLc. and Salmon River Tours Co. are insured, licensed and bonded outfitters by the State of Idaho’s IOGLB and are equal opportunity recreation service providers and employers.

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• WINTER | SNOWMOBILING

3 DAY OR 4 DAY HELLS CANYON RAFTING TRIPS

These Snake River Rafting Trips are by far our most popular!

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Class ii, iii, and iv whitewater rafting, delicious restaurant-quality meals and comfortable camping on riverside beaches, incredible views of the idaho scenery and wildlife, optional hiking and kayaking excursions, great fishing–catch smallmouth bass, trout and sturgeon, great adventure for ages 7-70+, located on the idaho and oregon border on the snake river.

Trip Prices

What to Pack

HELLS CANYON TRIP OVERVIEW

There’s nothing quite like a hells canyon rafting trip..

From the whitewater rafting to hiking to fishing and kayaking, this is a jam-packed adventure you won’t soon forget. Hells Canyon is the deepest canyon in North America; its depth spans approximately 8,000 feet from the Snake River to the peak of the Seven Devils Mountains.

This Hells Canyon Whitewater Rafting Adventure is an all-inclusive vacation into the wilderness of the Northwest as it offers some of the best white water and scenery like no other.

If your family wants to reconnect while disconnecting from social media and busy everyday life, or if your company is looking for a unique team building experience, this is the perfect solution, and it lies in the middle of the beautiful wilderness.

• All meals are restaurant quality and made from scratch in our full-service kitchen on the river
• Learn about Hells Canyon’s history through pictographs, petroglyphs, and rock shelters dating back thousands of years ago
• Explore the wilderness and find wildlife like bald eagles, bighorn sheep, otters, mountain goats, deer, elk, brown and cinnamon bears, and more

Enjoy slow-paced afternoons filled with appetizers, beach games, fishing, reading, and more

34 miles of splashy Class II-IV whitewater rafting with big rapids in oar boats, paddle boats or inflatable kayaks

Relax and enjoy your vacation. We take care of everything–planning, packing and cleaning

• Hike to view some of Idaho’s historical landmarks (optional; all hikes are rated easy)
• Find trout, sturgeon, catfish, and small-mouth bass on your fishing adventures

Sleep on luxuriously thick sleeping pads in roomy tents beneath the starry night sky

• 34 miles of splashy Class II-IV whitewater rafting
• Big rapids in oar boats, paddle boats or inflatable kayaks
• Slow-paced afternoons filled with appetizers, beach games, fishing, reading, and more
• We take care of everything–all you have to do is relax and enjoy the vacation
• Sleep on luxurious sleeping pads beneath the starry night sky
• Trip starts and ends in Cambridge, ID

Difficulty Rating:

The Snake River through Hells Canyon is rated Class III-IV whitewater. It is a large volume river with drop-pool style rapids, meaning a rapid is followed by a large pool of calm water. This section consists of mostly Class III rapids with a few Class IV’s. Many of these rapids are described as roller-coaster waves creating a fun and enjoyable ride appropriate for most physical abilities, including children ages 7 and up. Many boat landings are rocky and require walking varied distances on uneven terrain. Once at camp, the terrain is usually open and forgiving. All hiking is optional and easy to moderate difficulty.

Here are the boats we offer on our trips.

Trips start and end in Cambridge, ID

Evening before Departure:  Enjoy a stay in the Cambridge, ID area and we will meet for a pre-trip meeting, provide dry bags for packing and answer any questions.

Day 1:  After an early morning departure and a scenic drive along several reservoirs, we arrive at Hells Canyon Dam and prepare to begin our river adventure. Our first day starts off with a bang with several Class II-III rapids. The trout fishing is exceptional during the first day in the swift moving water. Lunch is served riverside usually with an option for a short hike or time to relax, swim or fish. After lunch, the Class IV whitewater rapids are fun, big and splashy.  In the afternoon, boats pull into camp where tents will be ready and waiting. Relaxing in camp, fishing, swimming, hiking and playing beach games is encouraged at camp. Each night a delicious gourmet meal is prepared from our river kitchen: appetizers, delicious entrées, fresh baked Dutch Oven breads and decadent desserts.

Days 2-3: After sleeping under the stars, coffee will be brewing and breakfast will soon follow. Bags will be packed and boats will be boarded. Phenomenal whitewater follows with calm swimming pools, great fishing holes, rich history, tasty food, and fun. This is when the magic of a river trip happens: no clocks, no cell phones, no computers; just you, the group and your beautiful surroundings. The evening will be similar to the previous night at a camp further down river.

Last Day: Breakfast, followed by more raft time and lunch, then heading back to Cambridge. Arrive back in Cambridge in the early evening.

Note for booking departing flights after the trip: There’s a lot of travel time from the river on the last day. We do not recommend flying out on the final day of a river trip. Please call or email us with questions about appropriate flight times and airport choices: 208-347-3862.

Wild & Scenic Rafting on the Snake River

Wild & scenic raft trips in grand teton.

A guided Wild & Scenic Raft Trip down the Snake River is by far our most popular activity and one any visitor to the area should not miss! Scenic trips are offered throughout the day, and lunch trips are also available.  Float a beautiful and scenic 10-mile stretch of the river inside Grand Teton National Park while  our experienced river guides share in-depth knowledge about local flora and fauna and the area's rich history. Take in amazing Teton vistas and get incredible close-up views of local wildlife, including bald eagle, moose, bison, elk, osprey, and beavers. With a lunch trip, you'll dine picnic-style at our private meal site right on the banks of the Snake River in the shadow of the Teton Mountain Range.

Wild & Scenic Raft Trip Policies

• Trips offered by Grand Teton Lodge Company are not white-water rafting trips, and are designed as a casual scenic adventure. You should not expect to get wet, although with all rafting activities there is a level of inherent danger. 
• Round-trip transportation from Jackson Lake Lodge to the Snake River is included for all trips.
• All guests must be at least 6 years old and have less than a 58-inch chest circumference to wear the required lifejacket.
• ADA accessibility is available with advance reservations.   Learn more about our accessible activities.
• Location Jackson Lake Lodge
• Price $72 - $120 plus tax as applicable
• Date & Time Late-May to late-September, dependent on water levels. Trips depart daily from Jackson Lake Lodge. Dates and times are subject to change.
• Ages Ages 6+
• Activity Length 3 - 5 hours (including transportation to & from the river)

Wild & Scenic Raft Trip (no meal)

Enjoy 10 miles of stunning views while searching for wildlife and learning about the park from your knowledgeable guide. Multiple departures daily from mid-May through early-October, water levels permitting.

Trips last 3-4 hours, including transportation. Departs from the lower lobby of Jackson Lake Lodge.

Wild & Scenic Lunch Raft Trip

Make your trip even more memorable with lunch at our private meal site on the banks of the Snake River under the towering Tetons. This Western cookout includes burgers, hot dogs, fruit, potato salad, coleslaw, dessert, coffee, tea, and lemonade.

Departs Tuesday - Saturday at 11:00 AM, water levels permitting. Trip takes 4-5 hours, including transportation. Departs from the lower lobby at Jackson Lake Lodge.

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Take the Trip of a Lifetime down the Snake River!

Scenic Float Trip

Scenic Rafting

Experience the serenity of the Snake River in Jackson Hole with Snake River Park River Trips. Hop aboard for a scenic journey along the upper stretch of the Snake with panoramic Teton views, or float into the Snake River Canyon, where stunning mountain walls line the river banks.

Check off your bucket list

Raft & Ride

Explore the excitement with Snake River Park River Trips as we present an exclusive combined adventure with Willow Creek Horseback Rides. Immerse yourself in a same-day escapade by riding in the...

Wet & Wild

We’ve partnered with BrushBuck Wildlife Tours to unveil the most incredible wildlife encounters in North America. Drift along with Snake River Park River Trips and extend your exploration with BrushBuck’s...

FAQ / What to Bring

What is the cancellation policy.

All cancellations come with a minimum $10 cancellation fee. Groups Under 8: We have a 48 hour cancellation policy, all reservations cancelled outside of 48 hours will receive entire payment...

Do I need to know how to swim?

Every person on the trip will be issued a type V Personal Flotation Device, better known as a life jacket. These devices are designed to float your head above the...

What should I bring? What should I wear?

Wear clothes that you are comfortable in. Most any morning in Jackson Hole, even in the summer months, will be cool. But as soon as the sun pops up, the...

Our Adventure Partners

Dave Hansen Whitewater

Snake River Cabin & RV Village

Alpine Valley RV Resort

Snake River Rafting

The snake river in hells canyon.

The Snake River through Hells Canyon is North America’s deepest river canyon. This historic wilderness river corridor is home to everything from relaxing slow-moving stretches to thrilling class III and IV whitewater rapids. Plus, it’s a world-class fishery full of wild Rainbow Trout and prehistoric White Sturgeon.The Snake River through Hells Canyon is the perfect setting for a rafting adventure guided by the experts at Winding Waters River Expeditions. We offer a variety of 3, 4, 5, and 6-day trips, as well as specialty adventures.

Your Snake River in Hells Canyon Rafting Adventure

On your Snake River in Hells Canyon rafting trip, you’ll:

• Run through powerful, world-class rapids, including class III and IV whitewater rapids
• Visit pictograph and homesteader sites along the river
• Fish for Rainbow Trout and White Sturgeon
• Enjoy gourmet food made fresh using local ingredients
• See Golden Eagles, Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, and a myriad of other wildlife and wildflowers

What’s Included In Your Adventure?

All of our Snake River in Hells Canyon rafting trips at Winding Waters River Expeditions include:

• Transportation to and from the river from Joseph, Oregon*
• All necessary equipment, including high-quality, roomy tents and thick, comfortable sleeping pads
• All gourmet meals, including options to meet gluten-free, vegetarian and other dietary needs
• Full-service guides with years of rafting experience to help you enjoy the trip of a lifetime

*For all adventures except 3-day trips, you will park your vehicle at our Boathouse and we will provide round-trip transportation back to your vehicle. On 3-day trips, your vehicle will be shuttled from the launch point to Pittsburg Landing in Idaho.

Hells Canyon / Snake River 5 Day Rafting Adventure

Embark on a 5-day adventure in the the deepest river canyon in all of North America. Our white water rafting trips on the Snake River through Hells Canyon cover nearly 80 miles through the heart of Hells Canyon from the Dam to Heller Bar in Idaho. Fish for Rainbow Trout and White Sturgeon, enjoy delicious gourmet meals, and let our guides help you enjoy the trip of a lifetime.

Season: Late April – Late September

Hells Canyon / Snake River 3 Day Rafting Adventure

Let our full-service guides lead you on a 3-day, 32 mile adventure through upper Hells Canyon. You’ll travel from Hells Canyon Dam down to Pittsburg Landing in Idaho. You’ll run through some of the biggest whitewater rapids in the Northwest, fish for White Sturgeon smallmouth Bass, Rainbow trout, and enjoy delicious, gourmet meals from locally sourced ingredients.

Photography and Wildflowers

Join Fine Art Photographer and Naturalist Kendrick Moholt on a 5-day, 51 mile Photography Workshop and rafting adventure through the heart of Hells Canyon from Hells Canyon Creek all the way to Heller Bar. You’ll run through class III and IV rapids, including the world-famous Granite and Wild Sheep rapids. Learn from a pro, visit a variety of historical sites, eat gourmet food, all while having the adventure of a lifetime.

2024 May 13-17

Plate & Pitchfork in Hells Canyon

The 12th Annual Plate and Pitchfork Raft Trip- a wonderful food-lovers adventure featuring Owner/Chef Ben Bettinger from the Laurelhurst Market and Big’s Chicken in Portland, OR. Beyond great food, you’ll absolutely love this 3-day trip, floating class III & IV whitewater rapids, the beautiful scenery, world-class fishing, and relaxing evenings looking at impossibly starry skies.

August 11th, 2024

Fishtrap Outpost

Join author Gary Ferguson and Mary M Clare on a writing workshop rafting adventure in the deepest river gorge wilderness in North America, Hells Canyon. Sponsored by Fishtrap and guided by the crew at WWRE. A once in a lifetime opportunity.

September 3-8, 2024

Hells Canyon 4 Day Bass & Trout Fishing

Hells Canyon Smallmouth Bass & Rainbow Trout are fighters on the line and a thrill to catch. Let our guides show you the secrets of catching these beauties on the Snake River. Enjoy the fishing trip of a lifetime in the deepest river gorge in North America.

September 18-21, 2023

River Stats

When rafting the famous Hagerman section of the Snake River one goes splashing through plentiful class III whitewater in the bottom of the beautiful Hagerman Canyon surrounded by wildlife and awe-inspiring geologic formations.  This spectacular river trip is a hidden gem down in southern Idaho. it is easy to drive by this treasure of whitewater and scenery without even knowing it, but driving by and not going floating is a mistake.  If you are in Salt Lake City and looking to get on the river this is actually some of your closest and best whitewater.

When you take a trip down the Hagerman section of the Snake River you and your kids will delight in rapids like Prom Date, a long section of big rolling waves and Chris’ Hole which is sure to soak everyone in your boat.   So on those hot July days, if you find yourself in Twin Falls and need the best possible way to cool off, rafting on the Hagerman section of the Snake River is what you are looking for.

Adventure Idaho

Over 30 years of experience rafting on the Salmon and Snake Rivers. The best choice for family friendly whitewater rafting trips.

Idaho Guide Service Inc.

Outfitters on over 400 miles of the Snake and Salmon Rivers. Rafting, kayaking, sup & scenic motor boat tours.

Idaho Rafting

idaho Whitewater Rafting

Idaho has more miles of whitewater than any other state in the country. So, it should come as no surprise that OARS offers a wide variety of river trips for first-timers, intermediate, and experienced paddlers. Most Idaho rafting trips are appropriate for children as young as 7 years, but more experienced adventurers will not be disappointed with long stretches of Class III whitewater and abundant hiking and fishing opportunities on all of our Idaho rafting trips. Those looking for the trip of a lifetime should consider our longest Idaho river trip, the Ultimate Salmon River Experience .

Options include 4- or 5-day trips on the family-friendly Class III whitewater of the Lower Salmon River , 6-day trips on the Wild & Scenic Main Salmon River —where fun Class III whitewater is complimented by huge sandy beaches, a natural hot spring, and lush alpine scenery—or 3-, 4- or 5-day trips through the deepest gorge in North America on our Hells Canyon Snake River rafting tour. For families with older children, late-season trips on the Middle Fork of the Salmon are also appropriate for children as young as 12 years.

Find Your Perfect Trip

Adventures in Idaho

Main Salmon River Rafting on the River of No Return

Location: Idaho Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 7 (12 – 15 during high water)

Snake River Rafting through Hells Canyon

Location: Idaho Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 7 (12 during high water)

Gorges of the Lower Salmon River Rafting

Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting

Location: Idaho Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 12 (15 during high water)

Middle Fork Salmon River Fishing in Idaho

Location: Idaho Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 12

Middle Fork | Main Salmon River Rafting Combo

Main Salmon | Lower Salmon River Rafting Combo

Location: Idaho Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 12 (15 during high water)

Ultimate Salmon River Experience

Lower Salmon River Rowing Clinic

Location: Idaho Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 18 (16 with parent/guardian also in the class)

Lower Salmon River Dory School

Location: Idaho Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 18

Frequently Asked Questions

Have more questions?

Where does OARS operate in Idaho?

OARS Idaho headquarters, or OARS Dories , is located in Lewiston, Idaho. OARS operates trips on the Snake River, Main Salmon, Lower Salmon, and Middle Fork of the Salmon River.

What boats does OARS use on their Idaho trips?

The OARS Idaho fleet includes dories, paddle rafts, oar rafts, inflatable stand-up paddle boards, and inflatable kayaks on Idaho rafting trips. The selection can vary, depending on the exact trip and water levels.

When is the best time to do a Snake River or Salmon River trip?

The weather in Idaho can vary significantly from day to day. We recommend visiting the trip page for average temperatures and weather conditions, as well as keeping an eye on the local forecasts in the days leading up to your trip. Regardless, guests are highly encouraged to pack rain gear and appropriate clothing for a variety of temperatures. During the spring and early summer, high water is a possibility on all Idaho trips. These conditions may increase the intensity of the rapids and may affect the minimum age and trip plans.

What human history will I encounter on an Idaho river trip?

There are five federally recognized tribes in Idaho: the Shoshone-Bannock, the Shoshone-Paiute, the Coeur d’Alene, the Kootenai, and the Nez Perce. Northern and Southern tribes created a rich tradition of rock art that dates back thousands of years. Petroglyphs have been carved into rock walls and boulders and are abundant on the western Snake River Plain.

In 1805, Lewis and Clark became the first Caucasians to pass through the region that later became a state. Between 1842 and the 1860s, more than 50,000 Americans crossed the continent in covered wagons on the Oregon Trail. The trail followed the course of the Snake River for much of its journey through southern Idaho. At the time, Idaho was not a state, but a part of the Washington Territory. Idaho became the 43rd state on July 3, 1890, with a population of 88,548. Its 2021 population reached over 1.9 million people.

What kinds of birds and wildlife should I expect to see on an Idaho rafting trip?

The large mammal population includes elk, moose, white-tailed deer, mountain goats, big-horn sheep, mountain lions (cougars), short-tailed bobcats, and lynx. Gray wolves were re-introduced to the Idaho wilderness in early 1995. As a result, hundreds of wolves now roam the Frank Church Wilderness Area and the Selway/Bitterroot Wilderness to the north and adjacent country. Although there’s no guarantee, wildlife sightings are common on most Idaho rafting trips.

The official state bird, the mountain bluebird, is just one of the hundreds of birds that may be seen on your Idaho vacation. A year-round population of white pelicans thrives in the Snake River drainage. Idaho has many migratory birds such as the Caspian tern, snowy egret, great blue heron, black-crowned night herons, and tundra swan. One of Idaho’s most significant water birds is the trumpeter swan, a large white bird that weighs, on average, 24 pounds and has a wingspan of 10 feet. Game birds include grouse, pheasant, and the chukar (a partridge-like gamebird). Idaho’s most notable birds are its raptors. You may have the opportunity to see eagles, hawks, falcons, owls, turkey vultures, northern harriers, kestrels, and possibly even bald eagles and osprey.

Is there fishing on the Snake and Salmon Rivers?

For those in the rod and reel set, early fall on the free-flowing Salmon River is signaled by the biggest hits of the year—some of the finest Blue Ribbon catch-and-release trout fishing in the nation. The Middle Fork of the Salmon is one of the original Wild and Scenic Rivers. Flowing through the largest federally protected wilderness in the continental U.S., the Middle Fork offers rugged and varied terrain. And, although the whitewater may be world-renowned, simply put, the fishing on the Middle Fork Salmon River is superb and offers some of the best cutthroat fishing in Idaho . Guests who intend to fish will need the appropriate fishing licenses.

How long are Idaho whitewater rafting trips?

Trips on the Snake River through Hells Canyon range from three to five days. Salmon River rafting trips range from 4 to 17 days, depending on which stretch of river you’re running. Main Salmon trips offered by OARS run six days. Lower Salmon trips are four or five days. Middle Fork of the Salmon River trips run six days. Combined Salmon River trips range from 11 to 17 days.

What is the minimum age to go on an Idaho river trip?

The minimum age for Idaho river trips offered by OARS ranges from 7 to 15 and depends on the trip and the water level. See the page for each trip for the specific minimum age.

Which trip in Idaho is right for me?

OARS offers a variety of whitewater rafting and dory trips in Idaho. We recommend considering the minimum age, length, and level of whitewater you’re interested in. We also offer several specialty options, from fishing to gourmet dining on select departures.

What are the whitewater classifications and conditions in Idaho?

Every river we run in Idaho has some whitewater. The largest rapids range from Class III to Class IV . Each trip has a different level of whitewater and the level can vary depending on the water level and season. For more about our river rating system, please visit our trip resources page.

What is hiking like on Idaho rafting trips?

OARS river guides do their best to offer a variety of hikes on each trip. We make every effort to provide guided excursions to nearby points of interest, like cool vantage points and historic homesteads, some of which are brief walks while others are long hikes requiring more planning. The trip leader must consider the overall ability of the group when deciding what hikes to offer.

Why choose OARS rafting in Idaho?

We hire only the best guides . Many have been rowing rafts and dories for decades. Don’t believe us? Check out our film Dory Land for the story of dories in Idaho. More than a couple of our guides were born into the Idaho rafting business. Our guides are safety-conscious with extensive wilderness experience. OARS provides the best guide-to-guest ratio in the adventure travel business, thus ensuring your questions are answered and your concerns are given the personal attention you deserve. And our team of friendly and knowledgeable Adventure Consultants are available year-round to answer your calls and help plan your Idaho rafting vacation.

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• Idaho Rafting

Whitewater Rafting in Idaho

No matter which Idaho rafting trip you choose, ROW Adventures offers you a journey that goes beyond the water. While you spend plenty of days riding rapids, you also experience some of the country’s best wilderness, witness wildlife like black bear and bighorn sheep, soak in secluded natural hot springs and wade through history with Native American petroglyphs and pioneer homesteads off the beaten path. You’ll also enjoy staying in comfortable camps under the stars, indulging in delicious camp cooking and relaxing with other activities such as fishing.

Rafting More Idaho Rivers than Any Other Outfitter

Based in Idaho and on the forefront of adventure, ROW runs more rivers in Idaho than any other outfitter. From one-day to a week or more, and from easy floats to the wildest of whitewater, we're your best choice. Because we operate trips on so many of Idaho's rivers, we can give you the best advice about which one will best fulfill your needs and dreams. The Salmon river is the most famous river in Idaho, and we offer rafting trips on several different sections of the more than 300 miles to choose from!  The Middle Fork Salmon River is 100 miles of pure wilderness joy with great rapids and spectacular scenery.  For families with younger children, a better choice would be our Salmon River Family Magic rafting trips .  For adults looking for hot sun, warm water and expansive white-sand beaches, our trips on the Lower Salmon River are the perfect option. The Snake river is another Idaho legend and we offer rafting trips there as well as our exclusive raft-supported hiking trips. While thousands of people take a two-hour trip on the Snake near Jackson Hole, immerse yourself in America's grandeur on a four or five-day Snake River in Hells Canyon trip and gaze up from the bottom of America's deepest river gorge. There are other amazing rivers in Idaho including the Bruneau   that has carved its way through a remote wilderness of awe-inspiring deep canyons.  Idaho's most remote river trips are found on the upper reaches of the Owyhee , where we have both rafting tours and expeditionary inflatable kayak adventures.  Finally, Idaho's wildest class IV whitewater run is the Lochsa River where our trips base from our own River Dance Lodge.  And if you're short on time, you might enjoy one of our many one and two-day trip options .

Middle Fork Salmon River Rafting

Salmon River Canyons Rafting Trip

Family Magic White Water Rafting Trip

Idaho's Salmon River Near Riggins

Rafting the Snake River through Hells Canyon

St. Joe River Rafting

The Mighty Lochsa

Owyhee River Rafting

Owyhee River Kayaking

Moyie River Rafting

Lower Selway Rafting

Bruneau and Jarbidge River Trip

Send me more information:, best idaho muti-day rafting trips to consider.

Middle Fork of the Salmon  - 5 to 6 days. The most famous whitewater rafting trip in Idaho and America’s premier alpine wilderness rafting expedition, the Middle Fork Salmon drops some 3000 feet over 100 miles. Incredible rapids, spin and fly fishing, hot springs, hiking trails, waterfalls, and spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery.

Salmon River Rafting  - 4 or 5 days. Officially the "Lower Salmon", this river also plays host to ROW's famous  Family Magic Rafting trip . It's a land of warm water, hot sun, and fun, intermediate rapids. Camp on huge white sand beaches, hike to see ancient pictographs, cliff jump and share the best in family river rafting under a big Western sky.

Snake River Rafting in Hells Canyon  - 3 to 6 days. Forming the border between Idaho and Oregon, this historic river takes you through some of the biggest rapids in the USA. Flowing through America’s deepest river gorge, the Snake River has exciting whitewater, majestic scenery, great hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and superb fishing.

The Lochsa River  - 1 to 3 days. Our most exciting one-day whitewater trip is recommended for those with previous rafting experience. In May and June, the river is cold and fast. In latter June and July, it slows down and warms up but still packs plenty of punch

Bruneau River Rafting   - A remote wilderness rafting trip with exciting class II - V whitewater, incredible canyon scenery and exceptional flora and wildlife viewing. 

Explore Multi-Day Rafting Trips

Best Single Day Idaho Rafting Trips to Consider!

Lochsa River - Originating in the Bitterroot Mountains and merging with the Selway and Clearwater rivers, the Lochsa River boasts over 40 major rapids along its course. As a free-flowing river, the Lochsa roars to life with the melting winter snow, marking the onset of the rafting season from early May until water levels recede in early July.

St. Joe River - Offering Class II-III whitewater experiences, the St. Joe River caters to both beginners and seasoned rafters, delivering an exhilarating yet manageable adventure. The narrow canyon confines result in explosive waves during the rapids, creating an exciting journey through the stunning Idaho mountain scenery. Between the heart-pounding moments, enjoy the spectacle of trout gracefully navigating the emerald waters of the St. Joe.

Explore Single Day Rafting Trips

Mecca of Rafting, Guides, and Gear

Whether you're looking for Class II Rapids or Class IV Rapids, Idaho is the mecca of rafting vacations in North America. In addition, our guides are the best at their craft. They not only expertly maneuver guests down the river, but also make your rafting trip more meaningful by sharing their knowledge of the cultural and natural history of the places we visit. Our ROW Fleet consists of the well-maintained rafts, kayaks, drift boats and canoes with your comfort in mind. All gear and guides are provided making your trip all-inclusive...all we need is your enthusiastic spirit!

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Multi-day rafting trips, 1 day rafting.

• Fishing Trips

Jackson Hole Float Trips

Join us for a rafting adventure on the most scenic and historic stretches of the Snake River. Sit back and relax as our experienced guides deliver a fun and interpretive trip through the Old West where the memories of Teton lore and wildlife encounters will last a lifetime.

Scenic Snake River Float Trips

Welcome to a bird watcher’s paradise where Bald and Golden Eagles are easily spotted and wildlife is abundant. The serene, yet powerful Snake River winds timelessly through the history of Jackson Hole. Beneath the geologic grandeur of the Grand Teton and the glacier-carved canyons, this river ecosystem is home to herds of elk, mule deer, and moose.

With the passing sounds of the Snake River’s waters, the memories and wild tales of Native Americans, mountain men and pioneers of Jackson Hole can be captured. Sit back and relax as our experienced and highly trained guides deliver a fun and interpretive rafting experience through some of the most scenic and historic stretches of the Snake River.

Grand Teton National Park

Embark on a peaceful 10 mile Snake River float trip along one of the most beautiful pathways through Grand Teton National Park. Enjoy a secluded float with the passing sounds of the Snake River. Keep your eyes toward the willows and towering cottonwoods for a chance to spot majestic bald eagles, playful otters, elk and the elusive moose.

Private Scenic Float Grand Teton National Park

Create lifelong memories with our personalized Snake River float trip. From family reunions to wedding parties and everything in between we are happy to accommodate your requests so don’t hesitate to ask! Prices start at $675 for up to 10 people.

Easy, Fun, Beautiful Float

We took an approximately three hour float trip on the Snake River from Grand Teton National Park Headquarters to Teton Pass Highway. Many beautiful natural, nature and rural scenes along the float. This was a no splash trip, and no one got wet unless they wanted to do so.

There were eight passengers on the raft, and there was plenty of room to stretch out or lay down. Joe was our guide – he provide fantastic commentary about the sights along the way and the history of the area. We saw numerous bald eagles. I highly recommend this trip and Joe.

Ty T. Miramar, Florida TRIP ADVISOR

The BEST Snake River Float Trips in Grand Teton National Park

From launch to landing, our Ten-Mile Scenic Snake River Float Trips take you down the most scenic stretch of the Snake River inside Grand Teton National Park .

• Pick-up and Drop-off in Moose, WY
• 2 1/2 to 3-hour Round Trip River Experience
• Expert River Guides with In-Depth Knowledge
• Six Decades of Safe and Scenic River Tours
• Daily Departures from May through September

YOU’LL LOVE THIS FLOAT TRIP, BUT DON’T TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT...

Our River Guides

Our River Guides know this river better than just about anyone. And with more than 150 years of combined experience, that’s no surprise. Their training far exceeds Park requirements, because Barker-Ewing puts your safety first.

Our Family Business

Rafting legend Dick Barker pioneered this Ten-Mile Snake River Scenic Float Trip way back in 1963. Today, the family-owned company he founded is considered the Gold Standard for scenic rafting on the Snake River.

Our commitment

Barker-Ewing is committed to protecting and preserving Grand Teton National Park for future generations to enjoy, and we work tirelessly to promote responsible stewardship of this unique and valuable resource.

RESERVE A PRIVATE RAFT

Are you looking for a more exclusive river experience? Choose a Private Raft for your family or group. You can even request your favorite BEST River Guide!

WILD AND SCENIC WYOMING

Let Barker-Ewing guide you on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Grand Teton National Park. Here along the free-flowing Snake River, you’ll experience the BEST mountain vistas and encounter opportunities to view a variety of wildlife.

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14 Reasons Why Jackson Hole Is the Summer Vacation Spot You Didn’t Know You Needed

Posted: May 31, 2024 | Last updated: May 31, 2024

If you’re looking for adventure this summer, then look no further than Jackson, Wyoming, also commonly known as Jackson Hole. This small town in Western Wyoming is known as an enclave for the rich, but in reality, it is so much more.

Situated next to the Snake River and at the doorstep of Grand Teton National Park, there are nearly unlimited recreation opportunities around Jackson Hole. From hiking at Jenny Lake to floating the Snake River to fishing in the Gros Vente River to camping in the backcountry, Jackson has a wealth of options.

Once you’ve gotten your fill out in the wild, then head back to town, where you’ll find exquisite dining, art, and culture options to choose from.

So grab your cowboy boots because we’re headed to the Wild West town of Jackson.

Stunning Scenery

Jackson, Wyoming, sits at the doorstep of the majestic Grand Tetons. A mountain range that rises violently from the valley floor into jagged peaks that pierce the sky. Funny enough, from the town of Jackson itself, the view of the Tetons is totally blocked by nearby East Gros Ventre Butte. So unless you have a couple million dollars lying around to buy one of the houses on the butte, you’ll have to drive a couple of miles out of town to take in the best views.

The drive north from Jackson into the park is one of the prettiest anywhere in the country as you parallel the mountain range and have a good chance at spotting the resident herds of bison that call the area flats home.

Outdoor Adventures

The Jackson Hole area is an absolute playground for hikers, bikers, backpackers, photographers, and fly fishermen. With miles of trails that will take you deep in the Grand Tetons, the famous Snake River slowly winding through the valley, and all the wildlife you could ever want just waiting to be photographed, you can easily spend all day, every day outside and never run out of things to do.

One of our favorite mellow activities is to park a car near the town of Moose and ride our bikes on the paths that parallel Teton Park Rd. This is a great way to experience the park at a slower pace as everyone else drives from pullout to pullout.

Wildlife Encounters

Did we mention the wildlife encounters yet? The lands around Jackson Hole are home to many of the largest land mammals in the country with bears, both black and brown, moose, elk, and even the mighty bison. As soon as you drive out of town to the north, you’ll pass by the National Elk Refuge, which serves as the winter grounds for many of the area elk.

During the summer months, though, the animals spread out and head to higher ground in search of food. This doesn’t mean there still aren’t plenty of animals to spot from the roads, though, as bears, bison, and moose all meander their way through the river bottoms and flats during the summer.

Hot Springs Relaxation

If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the national park and Jackson itself, then head south to the remote Granite Hot Springs. This geothermal feature bubbles up at the base of a small waterfall and is piped into a nearby developed pool that is accessible by road during the summer months. Adventurous visitors can even make the trek during the winter, but doing so requires a snowmobile, dogsled, or cross-country skis!

There is a fee to use the pool, but we feel the combination of scenery and solitude makes it well worth it.

Thrilling Whitewater Rafting

While much of the Snake River north of Jackson Hole is a relatively slow-moving, tranquil river south of town, the river narrows as it passes through the mountains and turns into a whitewater rafting paradise. Numerous tour companies offer whitewater rafting trips through this class III stretch of river, which offers up just enough fun to keep everyone on their toes but not so much that there is significant risk involved.

Plan on most tours taking around 4 – 5 hours to run this 8-mile stretch of river.

Scenic Float Trips

If whitewater rafting is a bit beyond your comfort level, but you still want to get out on the river, then consider a float trip on the stretch of Snake River north of town. These trips range from dedicated fly fishing tours, wildlife spotting floats, or just a general float where you can enjoy being off the road and seeing some of the backcountry within this busy stretch of the valley floor.

Most of the floats take you along the base of the majestic Grand Tetons, so bring your camera, as you won’t want to miss these sights!

Epic Camping Spots

It is no secret that there are a bunch of amazing campgrounds around Jackson Hole, both within and outside of the National Park. The Gros Ventre Campground is only 20 minutes outside of town and has tons of campsites that range from tent sites all the way up to huge pull-through sites for RVs. Best of all, the campground is right along the Gros Ventre River, where you can often see moose wandering by.

Those seeking a wilder and cheaper camping experience are in luck, as there are tons of amazing boondocking sites around the valley as well. These take a little more research to find, but you’d be hard-pressed to find sites this good nearly anywhere else in the country!

World-Class Fishing

As mentioned earlier, the Snake River meanders its way through the valley floor and is fed by numerous other rivers and lakes in the area. These all make for exceptional fly fishing opportunities that fishermen travel the world to reach. Whether you take a guided trip on foot, paddle the river by canoe, or hop on a float trip, you’re guaranteed to find some river solitude with the most amazing scenery around.

The Jackson Hole Rodeo is a tradition for locals and visitors alike that captures the spirit of this mountain west town. Running every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday throughout the summer, the rodeo offers a chance for the town to come together and watch cowboys compete in events like bronco riding and barrel racing. If you’re downtown on any of these evenings during the summer, there’s a good chance you’ll hear the cheer echoing across town as these rodeos sell out virtually every day.

Vibrant Art Scene

In a town with as much money as there is in Jackson Hole, it is no surprise that there is a thriving art scene catering to the higher income brackets. While this means much of the art is out of reach for the everyday window shopper, it is still a fun experience to walk through the galleries in downtown Jackson to see the type of art being produced by locals.

Much of it is Western and animal-themed, with incredible photography of the area’s scenery and animals, intricate bronze castings of horses and bulls, and paintings inspired by the natural surroundings.

Be sure not to miss the National Museum of Wildlife Art which sits just outside of town!

Delicious Dining

After a day out in the Grand Tetons or Yellowstone, it is nice to be able to come back to town and sit down for a nice meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick burger or a first-class dining experience, Jackson Hole has you covered.

Every time we visit, we always try to get out to a nicer restaurant at least once, as the chefs here are experts at preparing dishes like bison steaks or elk tenderloin.

Shopping Spree

Even though Jackson tends to lean on the side of catering to spenders in the upper tax brackets, there are still plenty of options for the everyday tourist to grab a souvenir to remember their trip by. We actually find many of the tourist shops in Jackson to be right in the sweet spot of being relatively affordable and good quality and not overly kitschy like you’ll find in many other touristy locations. There are also a number of western outfitter-type shops that are always fun to walk through to see if you can pull off the cowboy look.

Horseback Riding

In this land of open ranges, there is really no better way to get out and experience the wild west country than on horseback. Guided horseback trips through the area’s hills and valleys will give you a taste of what life was like for cowboys who used to run cattle through these lands. Some guides will even offer up an authentic cowboy dinner to cap off the end of a perfect day.

Star Gazing

In an area surrounded by mountains and national parks, it is no surprise that the night skies here are incredibly dark. This makes it a wonderful area for star gazing and astrophotography, with the mountains serving as the perfect backdrop to the Milky Way as it arcs across the night sky.

Just be on the lookout driving home as the park’s animals often make their way up to the roads at night, and the last thing you want is to end up on the wrong side of a bison!

More Articles from Roam the Northwest

• 10 of the Best Places to Spot Wildlife in the Grand Tetons
• A Budget-Friendly Guide to Visiting Jackson Hole

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73-year-old survives five days in the wilderness after raft flips on Idaho river

By kaitlyn hart, eastidahonews.com | posted - may 27, 2024 at 7:30 a.m., custer county sheriff’s marine deputy john haugh, left, stands with thomas gray, who survived five days in the wilderness, in this undated photo. (custer county idaho sheriff’s office).

Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes

SALMON, Idaho — Thomas Gray, 73, is lucky to be alive. He endured five days in the wilderness after his raft fell apart on the Salmon River in Idaho.

Gray took off for a three-day solo rafting trip on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River from the Marsh Creek launch area on May 17, according to a news release from the Custer County Sheriff's Office.

Unfortunately, a series of log jams caused his raft to fall apart, and Gray sustained a leg injury after a log hit him in the leg. Gray was forced to completely disassemble his raft in the water and rebuild it on the shore, according to Custer County sheriff's marine deputy John Haugh,

Eventually, he decided to camp along the bank of Marsh Creek that night. The following morning, May 18, Gray traveled to Dagger Falls.

When he arrived, he decided to "run the falls" or raft down Dagger Falls, as he "did not want to delay meeting his wife at the confluence (where the two rivers meet) on Sunday, May 19."

While running the falls, Gray's raft flipped, injuring his leg even further, and he was ejected at the bottom. He then swam to shore as his raft floated down the river without him.

Almost exactly two years prior, Gray's brother, 63-year-old Robert Gray, was killed after flipping a raft in nearly the exact same spot, according to Haugh.

After realizing his raft was gone with all of his equipment, including his knife, Thomas Gray climbed up a mountain and hiked toward the Boundary Creek launch site.

Because of his leg injury, Gray stayed at the launch site when he arrived, finding shelter in an outhouse for two nights. During the day, he watched the river in hopes someone would float by and offer him help.

At the same time on Monday, Custer County and Valley County had sent search and rescue crews down the river after receiving a missing report for Gray and a report of a "punctured cataraft being found on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River."

'He was resigned that this was not going to end well'

Haugh says crews must've unknowingly floated by Gray, who was in the outhouse, with both parties missing each other.

After the second night at the outhouse, Gray decided to walk toward Fir Creek Pass. According to the sheriff's office, Gray remembers nothing from that night.

On Tuesday, Gray stumbled upon a Bruce Meadows Snowmobile Club trailer. Inside the trailer was a wood stove but no matches to light it.

Unbeknownst to Gray, Sheriff Levi Maydole had activated the Custer County Search and Rescue this same morning, but they were unable to find Gray.

The Civil Air Patrol was also activated to search the river from Boundary Creek to Indian Creek several times but did not find Gray either.

Meanwhile, Gray woke up the next morning, Wednesday, and continued down Bear Valley Road. Three miles in, he became too exhausted to continue and laid down in the snow.

The sheriff's office estimates Gray had walked approximately 23 miles by this point, drinking only creek water and eating snow.

"Tom was totally exhausted; he decided this was it. He just laid down in the snow and said a prayer," says Haugh. "He was resigned that this was not going to end well."

'He was in pretty bad shape'

Shortly after, Steve and Annie Lentz, the owners of Far and Away River Adventures, spotted Gray lying in the snow alongside the road.

Gray heard the sound of their car, which, luckily, was also carrying several first responders, who jumped out to help him.

"If they hadn't come along, he probably wouldn't have lasted much longer," says Haugh. "He was in pretty bad shape when they got him."

They took Gray to the Mountain Village restaurant, where he met with Custer County deputies. They gave him a ride to the sheriff's office, where his wife was eagerly waiting to reunite.

Haugh says he is still "smiling ear to ear" since finding Gray. Haugh was one of the first responders who assisted in searching for his brother's body in 2022.

"Tom called me and said I was his 'lifesaver,' but I said, 'No, I'm just your Uber deputy,'" says Haugh.

Haugh strongly discourages rafters from going on excursions alone, and encourages them to always bring safety supplies that can end up saving lives.

"Never go solo. that's No. 1. No. 2, you have to wear the right gear; he was wearing the right gear," says Haugh. "You need to keep your knife on your (life jacket). Even if you're traveling in a party, it's a good idea to carry some kind of fire-starting device. Waterproof matches, a lighter, something. He went four days unable to make a fire. And put a candy bar or something in your life jacket."

Haugh also highly recommends taking a device with you that can reach first responders if necessary.

"The biggest takeaway is take a satellite communicator," says Haugh. "If something goes wrong, they're waterproof — you just get on that and punch a message into the sheriff's office or the forest service saying, 'I wrecked, I'm at Boundary Creek, I'm injured, but I'm OK.' It helps a lot."

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