Grand Teton National Park Paddling
Kayak the TetonsPaddle the Tetons Up Close
Why This ParkGrand Teton rises straight from the valley floor, with glacier-fed lakes and classic western scenery at every turn. Paddling here means quiet water, dramatic views, and wildlife-rich shorelines that feel worlds away from the road.
We’re the only authorized kayaking outfitter in the park, with access to private campsites and exclusive multi-day routes on Jackson Lake, the park’s largest body of water at 25,000+ acres.
A Park Preserved Through Vision and Persistence
Park Protection Story
Incredibly dramatic rock peaks and spires rising straight from the valley floor, sparkling mountain lakes and glaciers towering over a beautiful valley. Grand Teton National Park is truly one of the gems of the entire National Park System. We are very lucky to enjoy Grand Teton as it exists today, and it very easily may not be the park it is now without the hard work and dedication of many key players.
In 1929, Congress set aside the original Grand Teton National Park, which included only the Teton Range and six glacial lakes at the base of the mountains. What followed was a decades-long effort to preserve the valley floor from development. John D. Rockefeller Jr., after visiting Jackson Hole and meeting with Yellowstone Superintendent Horace Albright, launched the Snake River Land Company in 1929 with the intention of secretly buying private land on the valley floor to gift to the National Park Service. This buyout took nearly 20 years and met stiff resistance.
Growing impatient with Congressional inaction, Rockefeller pressured President Franklin D. Roosevelt to declare the land a National Monument in 1943. Despite immediate backlash and multiple Bills to abolish the monument, the vision persisted. On September 14, 1950, the original 1929 Park and the 1943 National Monument (including Rockefeller’s donation) were united into the “new” Grand Teton National Park, creating present-day boundaries that protect one of North America’s most spectacular landscapes.
Our Exclusive Park Access
Authorized GTNP OutfitterRendezvous River Sports/Jackson Hole Kayak School holds licensed Concessioner status in Grand Teton National Park, the only authorization for kayaking outfitting in the park. This exclusive permit allows us to operate guided kayaking expeditions on Jackson Lake, access private backcountry campsites unavailable to other outfitters, and offer river trips through the park as part of multi-day itineraries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before You GoNot for our guided overnight trips! We provide instruction and guide services for all ability levels. Jackson Lake offers conditions suitable for beginners when weather cooperates, and our multi-day format allows plenty of time to build skills. We’ll honestly assess whether our expeditions suit your abilities.
Yes, for day paddling on most lakes with your own equipment or rentals from us, plus a park entry permit. However, overnight backcountry camping requires permits, and our exclusive concessioner status provides access to private campsites unavailable to independent paddlers. Many visitors choose our guided expeditions for expert interpretation, wildlife viewing insights, and logistical simplicity.
For day trips, we recommend Slide Lake. It offers beginner-friendly conditions, stunning scenery, and fascinating geological history. For a Grand Teton experience, our 2-day Jackson Lake overnight expedition is designed to accommodate beginners while providing spectacular Teton views and wilderness camping.
July and August offer warmest water and most stable weather. However, these are also the busiest months. For a balance of good conditions and fewer crowds, try early July or September. Always paddle mornings when possible. You’ll find calmest water before afternoon winds develop, best wildlife viewing, and optimal photography light.
Grand Teton’s lakes and rivers provide exceptional wildlife viewing. Moose frequently feed in willow thickets and shallow bays. Morning and evening are prime viewing times. Bald eagles and osprey nest along shorelines. River otters and beavers are common. Occasionally black bears or even grizzlies appear on distant shores. The quiet nature of paddling allows closer approaches (while maintaining respectful distances) than hikers typically achieve.
Contact us directly at (307) 733-2471 or info@jacksonholekayak.com to discuss dates, group size, and experience level. Our multi-day expeditions require advance booking (typically 3–6 months for summer dates) due to limited backcountry permits. We handle all logistics, provide all equipment, and create custom itineraries matching your interests and abilities.
Ready to get on the water?
Rendezvous River Sports/JH Kayak School is a licensed Concessioner in Grand Teton National Park, a CUA holder in Yellowstone National Park, a Teton County Certified Outfitter, and a Special Use Permit holder in Bridger-Teton National Forest. We are equal opportunity providers.
Email us at info@jacksonholekayak.com or call (307) 733-2471 or stop by our shop at 945 W. Broadway in Jackson.