THERMOPOLIS GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Drifting the Wind River: A Quiet Float Through Thermopolis’s Canyon Walls
A short, beginner-friendly guided float through Wind River Canyon that pairs gentle rafting with short hikes and excellent wildlife viewing.
Drifting the Wind River: A Quiet Float Through Thermopolis’s Canyon Walls.
Experience the breathtaking Wind River Canyon on a beginner-friendly rafting trip that’s ideal for first-timers: float past soaring cliffs and alpine scenery, watch for Mule Deer and Big Horn Sheep, and combine calm river travel with brief hikes for dramatic canyon perspectives.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Soaring Cliffs and Alpine Vistas
The float travels through Wind River Canyon, framed by high canyon walls and alpine scenery that define the trip’s visual drama.
Frequent Wildlife Sightings
Participants have the best chance to see a range of wildlife from the river—Mule Deer, Elk, Big Horn Sheep, waterfowl, Beaver, Mink and Muskrat are all noted species on this route.
Gentle Rafting with Short Hikes
Designed for first-time rafters, the trip combines a calm float with short hikes at the put-in and take-out, keeping the outing accessible while offering canyon vantage points.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
This is a measured, scenic float rather than an adrenaline run: expect a relaxed downstream passage through Wind River Canyon where the emphasis is on observation—cliffs, alpine views and wildlife—interspersed with brief onshore stretches for short hikes and vantage points.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this float suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring good-fitting shoes suitable for a short, steep hike at both put-in and take-out; participants should also have a minimal level of physical fitness to manage these brief hikes.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the float?
The trip runs approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.
When do departures run?
There are departures at 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Are beginners or first-time rafters welcome?
Yes; the outing is described as beginner-friendly and suitable for first-time rafters.
Will I get soaked in rapids?
No; the trip is designed to let you enjoy the canyon without getting soaking wet in rapids.
What wildlife might we see?
Expect the best chances to see species such as Mule Deer, Elk, Big Horn Sheep, waterfowl, Beaver, Mink and Muskrat.
What should I wear or bring for the hike portions?
Good-fitting shoes are strongly encouraged due to steep paths at the put-in and take-out; a minimal level of fitness is also recommended.
Is there a minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 6 years old.