JACKSON RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
CLASSIC boats —> CLASSIC adventure: Two Snake River experiences in one afternoon
A 3-hour combo from Mad River Boat Trips that pairs a scenic side-by-side backcountry ride and an afternoon whitewater run on the Snake River; this guide covers logistics, route, and what to expect.
CLASSIC boats —> CLASSIC adventure: Two Snake River experiences in one afternoon.
Enjoy a thrilling day on the Snake River with scenic backcountry rides, a delicious lunch, and exciting whitewater rapids — two guided experiences in one afternoon that suit families, first-timers, and adventure seekers alike.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Side-by-side backcountry ride plus afternoon whitewater
This itinerary combines a 3-hour guided side-by-side ride through scenic backcountry trails with an afternoon whitewater raft on the Snake River, separated by lunch at the Mad River boathouse — two distinct experiences in a single day.
Class I–III rapids on the newly designated Wild and Scenic Snake River
The Snake in Jackson Hole ranges from flat-water scenic floats to class I–III rapids; the whitewater portion covers roughly 8 river miles through the Snake River Canyon with about eight sets of rapids, offering measured excitement for families and first-timers.
Lunch at Mad River boat house
The combined-day format includes a lunch break at the Mad River boathouse between the backcountry ride and the afternoon rafting section, giving a pause between the two activities.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
You begin with a guided side-by-side ride through mountain-flanked backcountry, then break for lunch at the Mad River boathouse before launching a southbound whitewater run on the Snake River; wet suits and related rentals are available if needed.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this combo suits — and who it excludes.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The combined side-by-side and whitewater experience is scheduled as a 3-hour activity.
Arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled trip time at Mad River (1255 South Highway 89, Jackson, WY 83001); transportation from the Mad River boathouse to the river and back is provided on every trip.
Wetsuits, booties, and wetsuit jackets are available to rent if needed; plan clothing and footwear for river conditions and the backcountry portion.
Gratuity is not included in regularly scheduled departures; standard gratuity is recommended at about 20% of the rack rate.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The combined side-by-side and rafting experience is scheduled as a 3-hour activity.
When and where do I check in?
Check in 30 minutes prior to your scheduled trip time at Mad River, 1255 South Highway 89, Jackson, WY 83001 (2 miles south of the town square).
Are wetsuits and other cold-water gear available?
Yes — wetsuits, booties, and wetsuit jackets are available to rent.
What are the age and weight requirements?
Rafters must be at least 8 years old and weigh more than 50 pounds.
Is transportation to the river provided?
Yes — transportation from the Mad River boat wedge/boathouse to the river and back is provided on every Mad River trip.
Is gratuity included?
No — gratuity is not included in regularly scheduled departures; a standard gratuity of around 20% of the rack rate is recommended.