Kayaking and Paddleboarding on the Teton River

The Teton River is one of the most famous parts of Teton Valley, and people come from all over the world to experience floating, fishing, paddling and many other fun activities throughout the summer.

Our river here is very friendly for all skill levels and ages. Compared to the popular Snake River in Wyoming, where many people go for whitewater adventures, the Teton River is slower and calmer, ideal for floating, kayaking and paddleboarding. With the Grand Tetons as your backdrop, the river as your base, and wildlife like moose, eagles, sandhill cranes, and deer keeping you company along the way, traveling the Teton River is a must-do when you’re here.

Besides kayaking and paddleboarding, you can also experience the Teton River via canoe, rafts or inner tubes. Whether you decide to sit or stand, float or paddle, you’re guaranteed to love the experience and want to do it again and again. If you’re interested in kayaking or any other water sport on the Teton River, here are a few tips and resources to help you plan ahead.  

Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals in Teton Valley

First, you need the right gear. Here are a few rental companies in the valley. Remember to also make sure you have life jackets, sunscreen, bug spray, and water or snacks for the ride.

• Peaked Sports: Offers inflatable kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. Their website has a page filled with useful information about the river, launch points, and maps. Learn more by clicking here.
• Teton River Supply: Rents user-friendly inflatable boats ranging from stand-up paddle boards and kayaks to full-size rafts. Learn more by clicking here.
• Wai Mauna: Paddleboard and Kayak rentals in Driggs. Short-term rentals include shuttle service (learn more about that below). Learn more by clicking here.

Tips and Tricks for Floating the Teton River

Teton Valley has several launches and entry points for the Teton River. Some have larger parking areas, others are more remote, still others offer different terrain to enjoy as you move down the river. A great resource to study the different launches and overview of the Teton River is on any of the websites for the local rental companies or the Friends of the Teton River website at this link: www.tetonwater.org/get-out/recreation-map.

A few tips: The Teton River flows from south to north. Be sure to consider how long you want to float (time + length) when choosing which leg of the river you want to kayak or paddle on. As you kayak or float on the river, please remember that most of the riverbanks are private property. Farmland, aspen and willow groves, and even some friendly cows are common sights. If you take your dogs with you, keep them under control so as not to disturb the wildlife. If you encounter moose along the way, and this happens often, don’t get too close or make noises to startle them, just quietly float on by at a safe distance and enjoy.

Teton River Vehicle Shuttle Service

If you have only one vehicle, sometimes it makes life a lot easier to hire a shuttle service. Using shuttle services also helps mitigate crowding by reducing cars at the launch points. On busy weekends parking can be limited as well. You can arrange ahead of time with the companies below to either pick up your vehicle from your launch point and move it to where you plan to get out of the river – or to pick you and your gear up at your end point and take you back to where you started.

• Basin Shuttle Co: (208) 201-4836 or (208) 973-6057
• Teton River Shuttle: (208) 797-0810