Rafting Travel Guide & Questions
Outstanding Reputation and Safety Record!
Sands Whitewater & Scenic River Trips has been taking clients safely down the river under the management of Charlie Sands for 45 years. That makes us the most seasoned and experienced outfitter in Jackson Hole. Chosen by the President of the United States and his family for their rafting adventure, Sands extends to all our guests the same friendly and courteous service. Your personal safety and enjoyment are our primary concerns. Our unparalleled reputation in the valley stems from our commitment to safety and excellence.
Wide Variety of Trips – Something for Everyone!
8 Mile Whitewater trips leave throughout the day with two boat styles to choose from: classic 14 man paddle boats and small 8 man paddle boats! 13 Mile Scenic Floats are great for enjoying the breathtaking scenery and wildlife of the Jackson Hole area. Scenic trips are offered mornings, evenings and midday with lunch. Breakfast, Lunch and Overnight Combination trips offer both a scenic float and our exciting whitewater stretch, combined with an opportunity to relax and enjoy the outdoors at our Pine Bar campsite. These combinations are continuous river trips without bus transfer. Due to the Pine Bar campsite, these combo trips are unmatched in the valley. Full Day 21 Mile Scenic and Whitewater Combination with Lunch trip offers our guests the opportunity to experience multiple sections of the Snake River, combining the beauty of the Teton Range with the exciting action of the Grand Canyon of the Snake River, for a full day of adventure in Jackson Hole. Private Scenic and Whitewater Floats are offered for those who wish to experience the Snake River with only their group and our guide. A veteran guide will provide expert knowledge, masterful boat skills, and a gourmet meal at the river. This trip provides a unique and unforgettable day on the river for those looking for an exclusive trip.
Our Guides
All of our guides at Sands are experienced professionals and knowledgeable about the surrounding areas. They are happy to share information with you about the wildlife and local history as you float the Snake River. Each guide has US Forest Service required certifications. Our guides place the highest priority on your safety and enjoyment during your river trip.
Our Equipment
All of our rafts are custom designed for Sands from Hyside. Our gear is updated each year ensuring all our guests the finest equipment on the market. New life jackets, paddles and splash suits are available every season. Full splash gear (pants and jacket) is provided for every rafter free of charge, and if you tend to get cold easily, we have new wetsuits and booties available for rent.
Whitewater Trips
The Grand Canyon of the Snake River is a beautiful, exciting section of river consisting of Class II and III rapids. The Grand Canyon of the Snake River is the deepest gorge on the Snake River in the State of Wyoming. High water season is in the month of June when the snow runoff peaks creating Class IV rapids. During normal levels the minimum age is 6 yrs and 45 pounds and may vary with higher water levels. Small conversion 8‐man boats are available starting around June 15th for a very exciting ride for the experienced boaters. Boats can possibly flip, although it is rare, and people do very occasionally fall in the water. We do rent wetsuits and highly recommend them in May and June. At the river guests are always greeted by the river guides, given a safety talk, and receive splash jackets and pants as well as a Coast Guard approved life jacket.
Scenic Floats
Our scenic floats take you through the braided channels of the Upper Snake River, located in the majestic Teton Range. This section is abundant in local wildlife including moose, elk, deer, beaver, otter, and our very abundant population of bald eagles. The trip takes you down 13 miles of the beautiful and serene Snake River, lasting approximately 3 hours. Our age limit for the scenic is 4 years old. You may bring a camera and binoculars as you should not get wet on this section. Warm clothes are recommended as it can be chill on the river.
Weather
Weather is variable in the mountainous region that surrounds Jackson Hole. We will run trips on chilly or rainy days if we deem the weather to be safe and comfortable enough for our guests. The weather in July and August is typically warm and sunny (70‐85 degrees) throughout the day. May, June and September have very unpredictable weather patterns but are typically very pleasant and sunny. Please call for additional information.
Age Requirements
6 years old for whitewater
4 years old for scenic
Minimum age requirements may vary with water levels.
Rapids are Class II and III rapids (on a scale form I‐VI).
We recommend our Classic 14 Man Raft for youths and beginners.
Our trips are family friendly and suitable for beginners. No prior experience necessary.
Where to Meet
All trips leave from the Sands South Office located at 1450 South Highway 89 (1 ½ miles from the Town Square on Broadway across from Smith’s grocery). Broadway becomes South HWY 89 on the southern end of town. From the national parks take a right on Broadway off of Cache Street and continue 1 ½ miles until you see us on the left side. We are the last building on the left before you leave town. Please be at the South Office a half hour before your departure time to allow for wetsuit rentals and paperwork. Arrangements can be made for free pick up at local lodging. *Google Map*
Cancellation Policy
Payment is refundable if trips are cancelled due to inclement weather, age restrictions or if notice is given 24 hours prior to scheduled departure time for individual groups and 7 Days for large groups (12 or more guests).
Whitewater
Wear casual clothing you don't mind getting wet. Shorts and soft soled shoes are ideal. Synthetic blends such as polypropylene, fleece and nylon are recommended over cotton fabrics. Bring sweatshirts and towels for after the trip. Cameras are NOT recommended. A professional photographer will take pictures through the biggest rapid. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses (retainers recommended) and hats! We provide complimentary splash jackets and pants. Our life jackets are US Coast Guard approved and must be worn at all times. Optional neoprene wetsuits, booties and gloves are available for rental.
Scenic
On our scenic floats you will not get wet and are welcome to wear casual clothes and shoes. Weather dependent, we recommend a jacket or sweater as the air temperature can be cool on the river. Cameras and binoculars are welcome on this section. Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are highly recommended. Required US Coast Guard approved life jackets must be worn at all times.
Combination Trips
For the scenic section you should not get wet (except possibly your feet) and are welcome to wear casual clothes and shoes. We recommend a jacket or sweater as the air temperature can be cool on the river. Cameras and binoculars are welcome on this section. Hats, sunglasses (retainers recommended), and sunscreen are highly recommended. You will have an opportunity to change between sections as well as put away valuables. On the whitewater stretch, wear casual clothing you don't mind getting wet. Shorts and soft soled shoes are ideal. Synthetic blends such as polypropylene, fleece and nylon are recommended over cotton fabrics. Bring sweatshirts and towels for after the trip. Cameras are NOT recommended on this section.
A professional photographer from Floatographs will take pictures through the biggest rapids.
