Snake River Paddle Conditions
River ReportIntroductory Overview
Real-Time Flow DataRiver conditions in Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone change constantly throughout the paddling season, from raging spring runoff to perfect summer flows to low late-season on the Snake River and local tributaries. April through late July are when conditions change most significantly, and we update notes about where the best water is more regularly. It’s important to note the Snake River always has something fun and can be run from March to November. Understanding current water levels is essential for choosing appropriate rivers, selecting suitable craft, and paddling safely.
Local River Report Updates
Snake River @ Moose, WY
Upper Snake in GTNPThis gauge measures the Snake River as it flows through Grand Teton National Park. This gauge also includes flows from significant tributaries below the Moran gauge of Spread Creek, Buffalo Fork and Ditch Creek. It is the most accurate gauge for the Pacific Creek to Deadman’s stretch, Deadman’s to Moose and Moose to Wilson.
Snake River Above Reservoir Near Alpine, WY
Lower Snake CanyonThis is the gauge for the Alpine Canyon stretch and is smack dab in the middle of that run and just upstream of Big Kahuna and Lunch Counter. If people ask, “What’s the canyon running?” They are for sure looking for the flow at this gauge. Winter flows get down to 1,200 cfs and the river is still fun! Runoff flows on a good water year can easily exceed 20,000 cfs and these flows create huge waves, a few formidable holes and strong whirlpools. Very fun for experienced kayakers and rafters. Ideal flows are in the 5,000-12,000 CFS range with standard mid-summer flows being around 4-7K with lots of fun to be had.
Gros Ventre @ Bridge: Call the Shop
Upper Gros VentreThe Gros Ventre River below Slide Lake offers the best solid Class IV whitewater close to town. The main season ranges from late April into late June or even July in a good water year. The moves are fairly straightforward but the rocks are sharp. The painted foot gauge at the Slide Lake Outlet is the best-known flow reference. At flows of zero, expect a bony but possible run; it gets better as flows increase. At flows of 3.5 or above, the whitewater is fairly continuous for the entire three miles.
Gros Ventre @ Kelly
Lower Gros VentreThis gauge measures the Gros Ventre River as it flows through the valley near Kelly, WY. This is downstream of whitewater stretch and is the actual USGS gauge for measuring that section. Exact correlations with the painted gauge at Slide Lake is variable but this gauge allows you to see the trend. Floating below the GTNP park boundary is currently illegal.
Conservation & Stewardship
We believe that those who love and use these rivers have a responsibility to protect them.
Explore More
Continue Your ResearchThe River Report provides current conditions, but our comprehensive Area Guide offers detailed information on specific destinations, rapids, access points, and everything else you need to plan successful paddle adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before You GoApril through late July are when conditions change significantly and when we will be updating notes about where the best water is more regularly. Gauge data links provide real-time flows updated hourly by USGS. For the most current information and personalized advice, call our shop at (307) 733-2471. Our staff checks conditions daily.
CFS measures water volume, literally how many cubic feet of water flow past a point each second. Higher numbers mean more water, faster current, bigger waves, and generally more challenging conditions. However, the same CFS affects different rivers differently based on channel width, gradient, and obstacles. That’s why our interpretations matter. We explain what specific flows mean for specific rivers and craft.
Water temperature lags behind air temperature significantly. Even in July with warm air, Snake River water stays cold (often 50s°F) because it originates from Jackson Lake (a deep, cold reservoir) and snowmelt tributaries. Always check with us about water temperature and whether wetsuits or drysuits are recommended for your specific trip and craft type.
Maybe. It depends on the river, your skills, and your craft. Flows higher or lower than typical ranges often remain paddleable for experienced boaters but become inappropriate for beginners or require different craft. Never assume you can safely paddle based solely on gauge numbers. Call us at (307) 733-2471 for honest assessment of whether specific flows suit your situation.
Because numbers alone don’t tell the full story. We paddle these rivers almost daily during season, know how specific rapids change at different levels, understand which craft work best at current flows, have just-off-the-water reports from our guides, and can honestly assess whether conditions match your skills. A five-minute phone call can save you from wasted trips, dangerous situations, or missed opportunities on better alternatives.
The Snake River ALWAYS has something fun and can be run. This is THE unique feature of having a big river in our valley. March to November there is whitewater to be run.