About Us
The story behind Jackson Hole WhiteWater
a tale of family, adventure & joy
Jackson Hole WhiteWater is a family-run river rafting business in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, proudly built by multiple generations of the Tibbitts family. Our mission is to share our passion for the outdoors, the thrill of rafting, and the joy of adventure with all who join us!
We can’t wait to share our passion for the river with you!
From a dream into reality.
Jackson Hole Whitewater traces its roots back to 1963 when it was founded as ‘Teton Expeditions’ by a local church group, offering rafting trips on the Snake River. In 1979, the Tibbitts family, led by David Tibbitts, moved to Jackson Hole after reading about the magnificent town in the LA Times newspaper! They quickly embraced river life, and in 1985, David purchased Teton Expeditions, renaming the whitewater portion to Jackson Hole Whitewater.
David expanded the business throughout the 1990s, while his sons (including current CEO Jeff Tibbitts) grew up guiding trips and learning the ropes. Over the years, the family has built a reputation for outstanding service, safety, and community ties.
Today, Jackson Hole Whitewater remains a thriving family-run business, continuing David’s legacy of kindness, strong relationships, and memorable adventures, offering unforgettable experiences for over 60 years.
For over 60 years, Jackson Hole WhiteWater has been the premier adventure company on the Snake River. Our passion for nature, safety, and exceptional service is what sets us apart.
Miles of Smiles!
At our core, we believe in the power of fun. Our mission is to create joy and lasting memories through exceptional nature adventures, all while sharing unforgettable experiences with the people we love!
Meet the Team
Meet the passionate people behind each legendary adventure.
David Tibbitts
1945 – 2023
Forever in our memories, David led Jackson Hole Whitewater with unwavering dedication to safety and service for over 25 years. As owner and operator, he built one of Jackson Hole’s most respected rafting companies. His legacy continues to guide and inspire us every day.
Jeff Tibbitts
Owner
Jeff has done it all at Jackson Hole Whitewater—from cook to guide to owner. With deep local roots and years of experience, he ensures every guest feels welcome. Off the river, he loves skiing and fishing.
Evan
Operations Manager
Evan grew up dreaming of the Old West, inspired by classic films. At 18, he left for Wyoming and never looked back. Now a seasoned river guide with Swift Water Rescue IV certification, he calls Jackson home with his family.
Adam Heigel
Manager
Adam Heigel, Manager at Jackson Hole Whitewater and Barker-Ewing, grew up in St. Louis with a love for the outdoors. After six summers working every role, he now proudly manages operations—and happily calls Jackson home for good.
River Guides
Our guides are the best in the business! Each is professionally trained and brings extensive experience to every river trip.
Taylor Sledge
River Guide
Taylor, from North Carolina, loves all things outdoors. CPR certified, she now guides in Jackson—surfing, snowboarding, and spreading stoke.
Ismail "Smile" Simsek
River Guide
Ismail, from Istanbul, brings energy and grit to Jackson. A bilingual adventurer, he snowboards, guides, and lives life full throttle.
Will Freihofer
River Guide
Will left engineering for adventure. Since 2013, he’s called Jackson home—guiding rivers, slinging drinks, and soaking up mountain life.
Roslyn Cordell
River Guide
Roslyn came for one summer and stayed for the adventure. Now a certified guide and snowboard instructor, Jackson is home.
Rosie Piscitelli
River Guide
Rosie left aviation for adventure. Now a year-round outdoor guide, she thrives rafting, skiing, biking, and exploring wild places.
Rollie Johnson-Schunk
River Guide
Rollie traded finance for whitewater thrills. Since 2019, he’s guided in Jackson—grilling, biking, and shouting “Cowabunga!” between trips.
RJ Lavin
River Guide
RJ, mentored by his grandfather, Tom Kemper, now guides rivers with passion—balancing adventure, family legacy, and competitive wrestling.
Oliver
River Guide
Oliver, a certified river guide and marine biologist, found his home in Jackson—balancing adventure with Tetons, travel, and rivers.
Nick Ciaravella
River Guide
Nick, a former paramedic and researcher from Louisiana, now guides on the Snake—sharing his passion for wildlife, rivers, and wild Wyoming beauty.
Mike Beiro
River Guide
Mike’s a thrill-seeker turned guide with a love for rivers, skiing, and adventure. He’s always chasing movement—and new stories.
Kaylee Lang
River Guide
Kaylee traded surf for snow. Now Jackson-based, she’s avalanche and wilderness certified—spending her days running, climbing, and snowboarding.
Katy Herrin
River Guide
Katy, a guide and photographer from Utah, now runs the Snake—trail running, climbing, and connecting with people along the way.
Kadin Doddridge
River Guide
Kadin, from Haines, Alaska, swapped fishing for guiding. He now chases rivers, snow, and sushi—living fully in every season.
Ian Anderson
River Guide
Ian left Hollywood and biochemistry to chase adventure. Now in Jackson, he shares his love for rafting and the outdoors.
Chris McGovern
River Guide
Chris traded tech consulting for river life. From Appalachia to the Tetons, he now chases whitewater, peaks, and new adventures.
Cat
River Guide
Cat, a longtime guide from New Mexico, now calls Wyoming home—balancing science, snow, and rivers with pure joy and curiosity.
Carson Tuttle
River Guide
Carson, a water-loving adventurer from North Carolina, now thrives in Jackson—rafting, riding, and working mountain ops with unstoppable energy.
JP Cahill
River Guide
JP guides rivers far and wide—from Idaho to the Grand Canyon. He’s back in Jackson, kayaking and fly-fishing (badly).
We're Hiring!
Join our team and embark on the journey of a lifetime!
Justin Beaver
The voice of an angel, the hair of a demi-god, and a smile that’ll make you jealous—meet Justin Beaver, our official mascot!
A chipper little chap, Justin embodies the spirit of JHWW as he sings and splashes in the Snake River. Always on the lookout for fun, you might spot him at our office, on the river, or riding the bus during your trip!
Ready to raft?
Let’s get you on the river for the most incredible adventure!