Are you ready to challenge your sense of adventure? Try a whitewater rafting trip on the Snake River in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The river twists and turns over and around rocks alongside lush forests with views of the Grand Teton Mountains in the background. Whitewater rafters come from all over the US and Canada to experience the Snake River. Whether you’re a thrill seeker or you’re just looking to float along and enjoy the scenery, there are trips designed for everyone. 

When should you plan your whitewater rafting trip? The best time of year to make the trip depends on what you’re hoping to get from your experience. The river ebbs and flows based on the time of year and the weather. A high river will give you a very different experience than a low river. Here’s what to consider when it comes to choosing a date for your trip.

Seeking a Thrill? Spring and Early Summer is your Season

If you want a challenging, exciting whitewater rafting experience, plan your trip in the spring. As the snow melts off the mountains, the river runs high and fast. This leads to plenty of white water and rapids. On a scale of I to V, the Snake River is classified as a III in terms of the size and severity of the rapids. With extremely high waters the rapids could exceed a III at times. 

After heavy or extended periods of rain the river also runs high, so if you’re planning a summer trip and you still want to experience plenty of rapids, just watch the weather for the best time to go. High waters also move faster, making your trip down the river much shorter, yet action packed. 

Looking to Relax? Summer and Early Fall is your Season

As the summer season progresses, temperatures rise and the weather dries out, making the river low and slow in some places. Scenic float trips are designed for those who prefer to float along the river and enjoy the view. Mid to late summer and early fall is the best time for a more relaxing trip on the Snake River. This trip may allow you to snap some photos of the scenery and wildlife along the way. 

The lower the river, the longer your trip down the river will take. You’ll have more time on the river to enjoy the views and may have an easier time spotting wildlife along the banks as you float, rather than rush, along. 

Plan Your Whitewater Rafting Trip Today

No matter when you go, a whitewater rafting trip and scenic float on the Snake River is a wonderful experience. There are parts of the river that always have rapids and parts of the river that are calm. Barker-Ewing Whitewater offers a variety of excursions to help you get the most out of your rafting trip. The season runs from May 3 to October 10 with 2 types of trips to choose from:

• 8 Mile Whitewater Rafting. Tackle class III rapids along this 3.5 to 4 hour excursion that includes the famous Lunch Counter and Big Kahuna rapids. 
• Snake River Ranch Scenic Float and Whitewater Combo. Get two trips in one with this combo package that includes a scenic river float and then a whitewater excursion. 

Spend a half day or a whole day on the river with either of these trip packages. Whenever you decide to go, the river, woods, and mountains are a beautiful sight. 

Book your trip now or call (307) 733-1000. Take a break from the summer heat and get out on the cool waters of the Snake River in Jackson Hole, WY.