Snake River
Yellowstone National Park, Jackson Hole, WY, 82190
The Snake River is one of North America's longest rivers, stretching 1,080 miles (1,740 kilometers) from Yellowstone National Park to the Oregon border. It serves an important role in the ecosystem as a home for a wide variety of wildlife—including wild salmon, moose, deer, otters, and eagles—and is subsequently a top destination for photographers. It's also a popular spot for water recreation, such as boating, white-water rafting, fishing, and kayaking.
The basics
One of the most popular ways to enjoy the river's rushing white water is rafting through Snake River Canyon. Join a guide on a Snake River tour to safely navigate Class III rapids from Jackson Hole in Wyoming, or head out on a trip from Grand Teton National Park for amazing mountain views.
Floating trips offer a calm alternative with chances to see animals like moose, deer, and river otters in their natural habitat, while jet boat tours cover the most miles in the least amount of time. Alternatively, make a full day out of exploring Grand Teton National Park from Jackson Hole to combine a white-water rafting trip with hiking and sightseeing.
Things to know before you go
Dress for the weather, as this is an outdoor activity.
Find a tour that matches your comfort level, from easy floats to fast rapids.
Consider bringing a waterproof camera and binoculars.
How to get there
The largest portion of the Snake River is in Idaho, but the river flows through Wyoming, Nevada, Utah, Oregon, and Washington, where it joins the Columbia River. It's easy to access from several US parks, including Yellowstone National Park and Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, roughly six hours from Portland.
When to get there
Visit during the summertime for the most pleasant weather. Note that many river tours only operate seasonally, generally from May through September.
Snake River origins
The Snake River was created by a volcanic hot spot that today sits under Yellowstone. Once known as the Lewis River, the name comes from a mix-up: Early pioneers misunderstood the Shoshone peoples' hand signal for fish and thought they were signifying snakes.
What is the best time of day to float the Snake River?
Spotting wildlife is a highlight of floating the Snake River—and from bald eagles to osprey, moose, and elk, many species are most active at twilight. Early morning and dusk are two of the best times to float the Snake River, though spectacular wildlife sightings are likely throughout the day.
How long is the Snake River float tour?
Most float trips on the Snake River last 2–4 hours—some fishing float trips are full-day adventures. Not all float trips cover the same stretch of river. Trips vary in length, too, and generally cover a distance between 8 miles (13 kilometers) and around 14 miles (23 kilometers).
Can you float the Snake River on your own?
Yes, you can float the Snake River on your own, but there are good reasons most visitors choose guided excursions. You'll need a permit to float the Snake River, whose braided channels, frequent logjams, and sometimes fast-moving water can complicate navigation. Booking a guided float trip ensures a safe, fun experience.
What do you wear to a Snake River float trip?
You don't need specialized gear or a wetsuit for a Snake River float trip. Wear comfortable clothing and soft-soled shoes, and bring a jacket or sweater if it's cool outside. You might also want sunglasses, a brimmed hat for shade, and a bathing suit for swimming on warm and sunny days.
What is the best time of year to visit Snake River?
Most float trips happen between May and September. Spring conditions generally mean fast-flowing water, while the height of summer brings warm days and more leisurely conditions. As many wildlife species migrate in spring and autumn, these months are best for spotting animals—though the viewing is great all season.
What types of tours can you do of Snake River?
The most popular tours of the Snake River are float trips, which take in mountain scenery, migrating wildlife, and big views from a stretch of relatively calm water. Other options include adventurous white-water rafting through rippling rapids and guided fishing trips targeting the river's native Snake River fine-spotted cutthroat trout.
Ways to explore
One of the most popular ways to enjoy the river's rushing white water is rafting through Snake River Canyon. Join a guide on a Snake River tour to safely navigate Class III rapids from Jackson Hole in Wyoming, or head out on a trip from Grand Teton National Park for amazing mountain views. Floating trips offer a calm way to spot wildlife in its natural habitat, while jet boat tours cover the most miles in the least amount of time. Alternatively, combine a white-water rafting trip with hiking and sightseeing in Grand Teton National Park from Jackson Hole.
Accessibility
Most Snake River rafting and boating trips are generally not accessible to wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.
Age limits
Family-friendly rafting trips can accommodate young children, but check tour details before booking to find an excursion that best suits your group’s needs and interests.
What to pack
Change of clothes, towel, waterproof camera, binoculars
What to wear
Sunscreen, hat, closed-toe shoes or sandals, quick-dry clothing
Not allowed
Much of the Snake River runs through parks or protected lands, which limit activities from camping to grilling.
Amenities
Most rafting tours provide wetsuits, showers, lockers, and waterproof bags.
Address
The largest portion of the Snake River is in Idaho, but the river flows through Wyoming, Oregon, and Washington, where it joins the Columbia River. It's easy to access from several US parks, including Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park.
Driving
You can approach the Snake River by car in any of the four states it courses through, though most visitors set off from Jackson Hole, Yellowstone National Park, and Grand Teton National Park. Rafting and boating outfitters generally offer free parking near the launch site.
Public transportation
Reaching the Snake River by public transportation is a challenge along most of its length. Opt for a tour that includes transfers from the nearest town or national park.
Best times to visit
Early morning and twilight are the best times to spot wildlife along the Snake River, though rafting and boating adventures depart throughout the day.
Best days to visit
This recreational hot spot draws boaters, kayakers, rafters, and fishers on the weekends, while weekdays are typically quieter.
Best months to visit
Plan your trip for summer for the most pleasant weather. Note that many river tours only operate seasonally, generally from May through September.
Special events
Parks and reserves often offer ranger-led talks and wildlife walks along the Snake River.
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