FAQ’s
FAQ’s
Every question’s a good question! Check out the list below to see if we’ve got the answer you need
General information
The Snake River in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, offers Class III rapids, and weather conditions can change quickly depending on the day and season. To ensure a great experience, here’s what you need to know:
Please Note: Scenic float and whitewater trip times can vary throughout the season. Please call us for the most up-to-date information, as times are estimates and may change week to week.
Whitewater Trips:
- We recommend wearing lightweight clothing that can get wet.
- Avoid heavy cotton like jeans and sweatshirts, as they don’t insulate when wet.
- Swimsuits are ideal, but fleece, wool, and polypropylene also work well.
- We provide splash jackets at no extra cost, and for those who get cold easily.
- We have wetsuits & wetsuit booties for rent (changing rooms are available). Wetsuits, including neoprene booties, help keep you warm during the trip.
- We also suggest bringing a sweater or jacket to keep in the transport vehicle for comfort after your trip.
- Wear shoes that can get wet, like Tevas, sneakers, or water shoes, ensuring they stay on your feet (no flip-flops or bare feet).
Scenic Trips:
- Since the scenic float is completely dry, dress in comfortable layers.
- Mornings can be cool, but it warms up as the day progresses.
- In case of rain, we provide ponchos to keep you dry and warm
- Our drivers stay with the vehicle, so you can securely leave any extra clothing on the bus.
- We also provide self-adjusting Bushnell binoculars for use during your trip.
- We recommend bringing a camera for those amazing views!
Safety
Is Whitewater rafting safe?
Yes! And your safety is our top priority. While every outdoor activity has some risk, our guides are professionally trained in swiftwater rescue and first aid, and we provide top-quality safety gear for every guest.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Nope! Knowing how to swim isn’t required for whitewater rafting. You’ll be provided with a lifejacket, and our expert guides will give you clear instructions on what to do if you happen to fall out of the raft. Your safety is our priority!
What is the minimum age for whitewater rafting
WhiteWater Trips: We welcome children aged 6 and over to whitewater raft with us. There are exceptions to the age limit. Please call if you have any questions.
Scenic Floats: We welcome children aged 4 and over on this section of the Snake River.
If you have any questions about bringing your children on either the whitewater or the scenic trips please don’t hesitate to call us at 307-733-1007.
The cutoff age for children’s prices on all trips is 12 years of age.
Do I need to be in top shape to go rafting?
Not at all! Rafting with Jackson Hole WhiteWater is safe, fun, and accessible for guests of all shapes, sizes, and fitness levels. Our trips are designed to be enjoyable for everyone—from adventurous kids to active seniors.
You don’t need any prior experience, and our expert guides will walk you through everything you need to know.
Whether you’re looking for a thrilling ride or a scenic float, we’ve got a trip that fits your comfort and ability level.
Feel free to give us a call at 307-733-1007 to chat through your trip details!
How do you ensure our safety?
Our expert river guides are trained in Swift Water Rescue, Wilderness EMT, CPR and AED use. In addition, we use top-quality safety equipment.
With over 60 years of experience, we proudly maintain an excellent safety record.
While all outdoor activities carry some inherent risk, at Jackson Hole WhiteWater, we’ve made every effort to ensure a safe and enjoyable whitewater experience for every guest.
How dangerous is whitewater rafting the Snake?
While whitewater rafting does involve some risks, these are minimal when you raft with our experienced guides. We have an excellent safety record, having safely rafted over a million guests since 1963!
As an outdoor recreation business on the Snake River, unexpected situations can arise, but we are committed to your safety and comfort. Please call us for more information—we’re here to answer any questions and ensure you feel fully informed and ready for your adventure!
What do I do if I fall out of the raft?
First and foremost, stay calm. Your guide will help you get back into the raft. If you’re swept out of reach, turn your body so your feet are facing downstream and stay above the water. Float on your back with your head out of the water so you can see ahead, and continue to float until you’re able to reach safety.
Can you whitewater raft while pregnant?
No, whitewater rafting is not recommended during pregnancy. The physical demands and potential risks can be harmful, especially during the first trimester when nausea and vomiting are common, and later when it could pose danger to both you and your baby.
Is Whitewater rafting safe for senior citizens?
Absolutely! With our experienced guides, there’s no age limit for whitewater rafting as long as you’re healthy and reasonably fit. Safety is our priority, and we welcome adventurers of all ages!
Feel free to call us if you’re concerned or want to discuss this more.
Gear & Equipment
Should I bring a camera?
Feel free to bring a camera, iPhone, or GoPro on the boat, but remember—you’re on the water! Use tethers to prevent drops. Tethered Splashbags are available for purchase in our shop, or feel free to bring your own.
Where can I store my belongings?
Your bus seat doubles as your locker, and the driver stays with the bus during your trip, so anything you bring will be safe!
Do we wear wetsuits?
Wetsuits aren’t required, but they can make your trip more comfortable during the colder spring and fall months. If you have your own, feel free to bring it! If not, no worries—we offer wetsuit rentals at the shop.
What kind of rafts do you use?
We use premium AIRE rafts, including the 156D and 183R models.
The 156D offers excellent maneuverability and is great for whitewater excitement, while the larger 183R provides a stable, spacious ride—perfect for scenic floats or bigger groups. Both are self-bailing, durable, and built for comfort and safety on the Snake River.
Do I have to paddle?
Yes and no! On our whitewater trips, guests can choose to paddle or sit in a non-paddling position—totally up to your comfort level.
On our scenic float trips, no paddling is required at all—your guide does the work while you relax and enjoy the ride.
Staff
Are the guides trained?
Yes! All of our guides are professionally trained in whitewater navigation, swiftwater rescue, and first aid.
Many have over a decade of experience, making them some of the most skilled and seasoned guides on the river.
Are the guides trained in Wilderness First-aid?
Yes! All of our guides are trained in Wilderness First Aid, CPR, and AED (automated external defibrillator) use at a minimum.
In fact, most go above and beyond—many are certified Wilderness EMTs and Swiftwater Rescue First Responders, too. You’re truly in expert hands out there!
Can I tip the staff?
Of course! Just head to our ‘Meet the Team’ page and click the Venmo icon beneath your guide’s bio to send them a tip directly.
How do I lodge a complaint?
In the rare event that something didn’t go as expected, we’d love to hear from you & have the opportunity to make it right!
To share a concern, please call us at 307-733-1007, email info@jhww.com, or fill out the form on our Contact Us page. Be sure to include your name, trip details, and a brief description so we can follow up promptly.
We truly value your feedback and aim to respond within 48 hours.
Travel & Directions
How do I get to the JHWW office?
Our office is located at 945 W Broadway, Jackson, WY 83001. We’re situated on the west side of town, just a short drive from the Jackson Town Square. Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled trip time to check in and get ready for your adventure.
For detailed directions and parking information, visit our Directions page.
Is there parking nearby?
Our parking is extremely limited at 945 W Broadway.
If you’re nearby, please walk to our shop for your scenic float or whitewater trip. No RV parking is available at this time—we recommend using Uber or a taxi to reach our check-in location.
We appreciate your understanding as we manage high parking demand!
Do we meet at the office or the river location?
All Jackson Hole Whitewater trips begin at our office located at 945 W Broadway, Jackson, WY 83001. Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled whitewater trip or 15 minutes before your scenic float to check in. From there, we’ll provide transportation to and from the river launch site!
For detailed directions and parking information, please visit our Directions page.
Can I organize my own transport?
Absolutely! Most guests ride with us to and from the river, but if you’d rather drive yourself or make special arrangements, just give us a quick call ahead of time.
We’ll help you figure out what works best—just note that parking is limited (and sorry, no RVs). We’re happy to keep things flexible so your adventure starts off smooth!
Bookings & Cancellations
How do I make reservations?
Booking your Jackson Hole WhiteWater adventure is easy!
Simply click the “Book Now” button at the top of our website to select your trip and secure your spot. Prefer to chat? Give us a call at 307-733-1007—our friendly team is happy to help you plan the perfect river experience.
We recommend reserving early, especially during peak summer months, to ensure availability.
What about cancellations?
We understand that plans can change, and we strive to accommodate our guests as best as possible. Here’s a brief overview of our cancellation policy:
Standard Reservations: Cancellations made more than 48 hours before your scheduled trip will receive a refund, minus a $10 cancellation fee.
Groups of 9–20: Require at least 7 days’ notice for cancellations to be eligible for a refund, less the $10 fee.
Groups of 21 or more: Must cancel at least 1 month in advance to receive a refund, minus the $10 fee.
Private Rafts: Also require a minimum of 7 days’ notice for cancellations to be eligible for a refund, less the $10 fee.
If something comes up inside those windows, we won’t be able to refund your trip, and if you book the wrong date and don’t let us know before the cancellation period, a 50% rebooking fee will apply. Missed trips due to late arrivals are non-refundable, so be sure to arrive on time!
Still unsure or need help? Give us a call—we’re happy to walk you through it.
Do we still go rafting in bad weather?
Yes—we raft rain or shine! A little weather can make the adventure even more exciting. Our trips still run in light rain, wind, or cooler temps, and we provide gear to help keep you comfortable.
If conditions become unsafe—like lightning or severe storms—we may delay or reschedule for your safety.
That said, we understand weather preferences vary. If the forecast doesn’t look good to you, it’s your responsibility to check conditions and contact us in time if you choose to cancel. Be sure to review our cancellation policy and reach out before your window closes.
Although rare, Jackson Hole WhiteWater, Inc. reserves the right to reschedule or cancel trips due to inclement weather, river conditions, or low participation. If we need to cancel, you’ll receive a full refund—or you’re welcome to apply your payment toward another adventure!
River Information
What class of rapids will we raft?
The Snake River offers exciting Class II and Class III rapids—perfect for families, first-timers, and thrill-seekers alike!
These moderate, fun-filled rapids deliver just the right mix of splash and adventure, all guided by our expert river crew. It’s wild enough to be unforgettable, but safe enough for most ages and experience levels.
Click here to read more about the rapids!
How many rapids are there?
On our 8-mile whitewater stretch through the Snake River Canyon, you’ll encounter approximately 10 to 12 rapids (changing with water flow), including thrilling Class II and Class III sections Click here to learn more about the rapids.
Notable rapids like Big Kahuna, Lunch Counter, and Double Draw offer a mix of excitement and fun suitable for families and first-timers alike.
The exact number and intensity can vary with river conditions, but rest assured, each trip is guided by our experienced team to ensure a safe and memorable adventure!
What temperature is the river water?
The Snake River stays refreshingly cool all season long! In early summer (May–June), temps usually range from the mid-40s to mid-50s°F. By July and August, the water warms up a bit—often reaching the low to mid-60s. It starts cooling again in September.
No matter when you raft, we’ve got you covered with splash gear and wetsuits available to rent. It’s all part of the adventure—and a little chill makes those rapids even more fun!
How fast does the river flow?
The speed of the Snake River changes with the seasons! In spring and early summer, snowmelt can really get things moving, often over 14,000 cubic feet per second (CFS)—making for a fast-paced, splash-filled ride.
Later in the summer, the flow usually slows down a bit, giving you a more relaxed (but still exciting) adventure.
No matter the speed, our experienced guides know how to read the river and make sure your trip is safe, smooth, and full of fun.
Is the water clean?
Yes! The Snake River in Jackson Hole is known for its clean, mountain-fed waters. Flowing from the Tetons and surrounding wilderness, the river is refreshed by snowmelt and natural springs—making it some of the purest water around.
While we don’t recommend drinking it untreated, it’s perfect for splashing, swimming, and soaking up the beauty of the great outdoors!
What kind of animals could we see?
The Snake River is teeming with wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled! You might spot bald eagles, osprey, moose, deer, elk, beavers, and even the occasional black bear along the banks.
The river is also home to trout and other fish beneath the surface. Whether you’re on a scenic float or a whitewater adventure, there’s always a chance for a wild and wonderful sighting!
Still have questions?
Reach out to us anytime & we’d be delighted to answer your questions.