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Post Date: Monday, August 3, 2015 |
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Whether you like it wet and wild, or dry and scenic, one of the best ways to get off the beaten path to see our beautiful valley in on the water.
 Jackson Hole abounds with adventures at all levels when it comes to water sports. Over the last decade, kayaking and standup paddle boarding (SUP) have grown in popularity, adding to the traditional favorites of whitewater and scenics floats and good old tubing down Flat Creek and Fish Creek.
Barker-Ewing, Mad River, Sands and Dave Hansen Float trips have been guiding locals and tourists alike for years. These highly experienced float companies offer a variety of ways to explore the scenic rivers of our valley. While the adventure hounds love the exhilaration of roller coaster riding through Lunch Counter and the Big Kahuna, families with smaller children, seniors and those who would rather sit back and relax can enjoy a number of scenic floats, sans whitewater, in various locations.
Ask your float company when is the best time to see wildlife, soaring eagles, or if they have a dinner float. There are endless opportunities to shoot photography, learn about the flora and fauna, as well as the history of Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park.
If you're looking for a quiet afternoon on a local lake, or would like to kayak one of the rivers, rental companies like Rendezvous River Sports can set you up with rentals and provide expert advise on where to go based on your skill level. They also offer lessons for kayaking and SUP.
 A favorite lake of many for a leisurely paddle at the base of the Tetons is String Lake. Located just north of Jenny Lake, this beautiful shallow lake is the perfect place to try your balance on a SUP. If you fall in you'll touch bottom and can easily get back on your board. If you're up for a short portage (100 yards), paddle to the north end of String Lake and then carry your kayak or SUP to Leigh Lake. This spectacular lake rarely is crowded and you can spend hours exploring the shoreline. Pack a picnic and relax on the northeast corner of the lake at "the beach."
Another easy kayak float is to put in at the Snake River Dam and take out approximately 4 miles below at Pacific Creek which is just inside the north Park entrance. At "Cattleman's Bridge" (there is no bridge) take a left and float through the iconic Oxbow Bend. You'll rejoin the river and continue your leisurely paddle surrounded by pelicans, otters, muskrats, beaver and even a moose every now and then. Shuttle services are available to move your car, or take two vehicles to shuttle from beginning to end.
Exploring the Jackson Hole area and Grand Teton National Park from the water is breathtaking. Take the time to see the valley from a different vantage point and enjoy the music of the water. |
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