Whitewater Rafting, Jackson Hole - Family Friendly Classic Raft
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Escape the crowds with a family-owned business guiding the Snake River since 1971! Unlike standard tours that pack 16 people into a boat, Lewis & Clark strictly limits this Classic Raft to just 12 guests maximum. You get the legendary Class II and III rapids like Big Kahuna, Lunch Counter, Champagne, and Ropes. Best of all, you enjoy them with more room to paddle and personal attention from your guide. Our 17-foot self-bailing rafts offer the perfect balance of stability and splashes. This 8-mile journey is ideal for families and first-timers. Enjoy calm stretches for swimming and stunning canyon scenery. Convenient changing rooms are available right at the river take-out, so you can change into dry clothes immediately before the shuttle ride back! Trips depart from our office at 180 Powderhorn Ln with free parking. Private rafts are available for groups, so please call to book! Looking for maximum adrenaline? Check out our "Small Boat" option. It is the wettest ride on the river!
Available options
Classic Raft Whitewater
Class II-III Beg/intermed<br/>Duration: 4 hours: This trip includes transport to and from the river. Total Trip time is 3-4 hours including transport to and from the river<br/>Bus or van transport<br/>Transport to/from River: Class II-III 8-Mile whitewater rafting trip in the Grand Canyon of the Snake River, 3.5-4 hours round-trip, 8-14 people per raft. Check in 1/2 hour before departure.
What's included
Transportation to and from the river from our office
Professional guide
FUN!
Splash Jacket & Life Vest (PFD)
Wetsuits free for kids 12 and under
Detailed itinerary
1
Your adventure starts and ends here! Please arrive at our office 30 minutes prior to your trip. This gives you plenty of time to check in, sign waivers, use the restrooms, and browse our shop.
This is also when you can rent river shoes or wetsuits if the weather is chilly (wetsuits are free for kids!). Once everyone is checked in, you will board our bus for a scenic 30-minute drive to the river launch.
After the trip, the bus brings you right back here to your car. You can shop for souvenirs, get information on how to view your professional action photos, and leave a gratuity for your guide before heading out!
2
Stop 2
The Main Event! Upon arriving at the river launch, you will meet your expert guide for a brief safety orientation and gear up with life jackets (free splash jackets are also available here). Then, it’s time to launch!
Your guide will navigate the 8 miles of the Snake River Canyon using a center-mounted oar frame, giving you the choice to paddle assist or simply hold on and enjoy the ride. You’ll hit legendary Class II and III rapids like "Big Kahuna" and "Lunch Counter" with the stability of our Classic Raft, leaving plenty of room for calm stretches to swim and enjoy the towering canyon scenery.
At the take-out (Sheep Gulch), we have changing rooms waiting for you. You can hop out of the raft and change into dry clothes before the comfortable bus ride back to town.
(Looking for a wilder ride? Search for our "Small Boat" High Adventure option—the smallest, wettest, paddle-only raft on the river!)
What's not included
Gratuity
Rental Gear: wetsuits, river shoes, neoprene jacket, go pro camera
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Bridger-Teton Forest Service Fee ($3 for ages 16+)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
107 reviews
5★
102
4★
5
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
143 reviews
5★
136
4★
6
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
WHAT TO WEAR: Prepare to get wet! Synthetic, quick-drying clothes are best (swimsuits, shorts, polyester). Please avoid cotton and denim. Secure shoes are required (sport sandals, old sneakers, or water shoes). No flip-flops, Crocs, or bare feet!
CHECK-IN: Please arrive at our office (180 Powderhorn Ln) 30 minutes prior to your departure time. We operate on a strict schedule to get you to the river, so late arrivals may miss the boat!
WEATHER POLICY: We raft rain or shine! Whitewater is a wet sport, so a little rain just adds to the adventure. We provide splash gear to help keep you comfortable.
AVAILABILITY: Don't see the time you want? Inventory changes daily. If you are looking for a specific time slot or a private boat, please contact Lewis & Clark River Expeditions directly. We often have availability not listed here!
FOREST SERVICE FEE: Please be prepared to pay the $3 Bridger-Teton National Forest user fee at check-in. This applies to all guests ages 16 and older.
Meeting point
Please check-in at our office 1/2 hour prior to your scheduled trip departure. We will transport you to the river launch location approximately 25 miles south of Jackson and approximately 35 minutes by bus. The same bus will bring you back. ALTERNATELY you may choose to meet us at the river.
Important notes
•Please dress appropriately in quick dry clothing with secure footwear, no bare feet. slides crocs
or thongs. Wetsuits & river shoes are available for rent at check-in. We provide a rain jacket
& life vest at the river. You may leave personal items on the bus while rafting.
•Please inform us of any special medical conditions that may affect your trip
•For a complete emailed confirmation or any questions, please contact our office 3077334022
•You will be required to sign an acknowledgement of risk form prior to rafting.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not
enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered
an alternative or full refund
•Whitewater trips operate rain or shine, we reserve the right to cancel trips with refunds if we
deem the weather to severe for safe participation.
• Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right
to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a
result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.
About Jackson
Jackson is a charming town nestled in the stunning Jackson Hole valley, surrounded by the Teton Mountains and Grand Teton National Park. Known for its outdoor adventures, wildlife, and western heritage, it's a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. The town offers a unique blend of rugged wilderness and upscale amenities, making it a year-round destination.
Top Attractions
Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park is a stunning natural wonderland featuring the Teton Range, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. It offers numerous hiking trails, scenic drives, and outdoor activities year-round.
Nature
Half day to multiple days
Free (park entrance is free, but some activities may require fees)
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
A premier ski and summer resort offering world-class skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and hiking. The resort features the famous Aerial Tram and scenic gondola rides.
Adventure
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive (lift tickets, rentals, and activities vary in price)
National Elk Refuge
A protected area for elk and other wildlife, offering scenic sleigh rides in winter and wildlife viewing year-round. The refuge is a critical habitat for elk during their winter migration.
Nature
1-2 hours
Moderate (sleigh ride fees vary)
Town Square
The heart of downtown Jackson, featuring the famous elk antler arches, shops, restaurants, and galleries. The square is a hub of activity and a great place to experience the town's western charm.
Historical/Cultural
1-2 hours
Free (shopping and dining costs vary)
National Museum of Wildlife Art
A renowned museum showcasing a vast collection of wildlife art, including paintings, sculptures, and exhibits. The museum offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valley.
Museum
1-2 hours
Moderate ($10-$20 for adults, discounts for seniors and children)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bison Steak
A lean and flavorful alternative to beef, often served with local vegetables and regional sauces.
Dinner
Gluten-free and low-fat options available
Trout
Freshly caught trout from nearby rivers, often prepared grilled or fried with lemon and herbs.
Lunch/Dinner
Gluten-free and low-carb options available
Huckleberry Pie
A sweet and tangy pie made with wild huckleberries, a local favorite.
Dessert
Contains gluten and sugar
Cowboy Coffee
Strong and bold coffee brewed in a traditional cowboy style, often served with a side of whiskey.
Drink
Contains caffeine and alcohol (if served with whiskey)
Popular Activities
Skiing
Snowboarding
Hiking
Mountain biking
Whitewater rafting
Kayaking
Rock climbing
Spa treatments
Best Time to Visit
June to August, December to March
Summer offers ideal conditions for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the national parks. Winter is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. These are the busiest times with the most activities and events.
15-30°C (summer), -10-5°C (winter)
59-86°F (summer), 14-41°F (winter)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Mountain Time Zone (MT), UTC-7 (Standard Time), UTC-6 (Daylight Saving Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Jackson is generally a safe and welcoming destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts
Getting there
By air
- Jackson Hole Airport • 3 miles (5 km) from downtown
By bus
Jackson Hole Airport
Getting around
Public transport
The START Bus system offers affordable and convenient public transportation with routes connecting major attractions, hotels, and neighborhoods. Buses are equipped with bike racks for easy access to outdoor activities.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Jackson
Teton Village
West Jackson
East Jackson
Day trips
Yellowstone National Park
55 miles (89 km) • Full day
Yellowstone National Park is the world's first national park, known for its geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife. The park offers numerous hiking trails, scenic drives, and outdoor activities year-round.
Grand Prismatic Spring
55 miles (89 km) • Half day
The Grand Prismatic Spring is a stunning and colorful hot spring located in Yellowstone National Park. The spring is known for its vibrant colors and large size, making it a popular attraction for visitors.
Idaho Falls
80 miles (129 km) • Full day
Idaho Falls is a charming city in eastern Idaho, known for its historic downtown, museums, and outdoor activities. The city offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as easy access to nearby national parks and attractions.
Festivals
Jackson Hole Rodeo • June to September
Jackson Hole Wine Auction • August
Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival • September
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for fewer crowds and lower prices
- Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Dress in layers and be prepared for variable weather conditions
- Rent a car for flexibility and convenience when exploring the surrounding national parks and outdoor attractions
- Try local and regional dishes, such as bison steaks, trout, and huckleberry desserts
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
