The easy answer to this is whenever you’re here! But if you have an open schedule this summer and want to figure out the best fit for you and your crew, this is the guide to read.
If you’re looking for the most exciting time, typically spring is your sweet spot. During May and early June, snowmelt and spring runoff will bring higher water. On the stretch we run (through the Snake River Canyon), we get a couple more class III, and even a class IV, that emerges when the river gets high. This time of year is typically where we see the infamous Lunch Counter rapid’s peak…make sure to smile big as you crush through those waves!
We won’t lie to you–the river at this time can be cold. The water that you are rafting comes straight from the snowmelt at the tops of the Tetons (you may be swimming in melted snow someone else skied this past winter!). But, don’t let the temperature deter you! We have neoprene wetsuits that will keep you nice and warm. Check out our Runoff Season Guide for what to expect and how to prepare!
Throughout the rest of the summer, the water levels will naturally decrease. However, you are still guaranteed a good splash any time of the year! Our stretch is located at the top of the water system, so when the snowmelt slows, the Bureau of Reclamation releases water from Jackson Lake to keep the flows steady and consistent all season long. The other great thing about our river is we have rapids that emerge in low water as well as high water. Toward the end of June and throughout August, Big Kahuna (Lunch Counter’s partner in crime) takes center stage. So, rest assured, you’ll leave the boat soaked no matter when you book. From our launch in early May to our final whitewater trips the first week of October, you’ll have a blast.
Essentially, water levels dictate the level of splash and flow of your trip. That volume is entirely dependent on winter snowpack, dam releases, and any rain we get throughout the season (or even snow…perks of mountain-living). We measure these water levels in cubic feet per second (CFS). We are aware that that sounds like a lot of mathematical jargon, so to put it in more relatable terms, one CFS is equal to 1 basketball. So if the river is running at 10,000 CFS, picture it like 10,000 basketballs floating past you every second. We have a live widget on our homepage showing exactly what the Snake is running at any given moment, plus a full River Report featuring water temps and other cool river stats. Check out our River Report page to get the latest!