Grand Teton Kayaking

Trip Length4 Days
Group Size4–12
Activity level
Starting from $1,709

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The Grand Tetons are renowned for breathtaking beauty. This incredible 4-day trip takes us through some of the best sights.

One glimpse of the Grand Teton National Park is enough to understand why this is a destination spot for adventurers the world over. Our weekend getaway begins with a steady paddle on Jackson Lake toward our campsite at Grassy Island, situated just below the impressive Mount Moran and surrounded by breathtaking views.

We kayak to rarely traveled trails on the second and third mornings, where we leave the boats behind and enjoy hikes to alpine lakes or waterfalls. Explore the beauty of the surrounding mountains reflected in the still waters. Then, on the final day, experience floating the Wild and Scenic Snake River. Our local guides share their knowledge and perspective, prepare delicious meals and provide expert paddling instruction. On our final night, we camp in Spalding Bay, where the star-filled sky is just a zipper pull away.

Jackson Lake provides picturesque views of the Teton Mountain Range.

Trip Highlights

  • Enjoy exclusive access to Jackson Lake for kayaking and Grassy Island for camping
  • Watch for bald eagles, moose and river otter that call this majestic area home
  • Learn about Grand Teton National Park from local guides who share their vast knowledge of the region
  • End your trip with a float down the Snake River while enjoying iconic views of the park

Activities

This trip is rated Moderate (3). You should be capable of kayaking up to 7 miles (up to 6 hours) in calm to moderately rough conditions including choppy waters and variable winds. Hikes are between 2 to 4 miles with minimal elevation change. River rafting on the final day is suitable for beginners. You should be comfortable camping in the back country without access to bathrooms or running water.

  • Kayaking
  • Hiking

What's Included

Professional instruction and guiding; meals as noted in the daily itinerary; tents and sleeping pads; group cooking gear; tandem kayaks and related paddling gear; stand up paddleboards (share basis) and related gear; gear for river rafting; park entrance fees; ground transfers as noted in the daily itinerary; gear transfers by boat while kayaking; ground transportation between Jackson Hole and kayak launch/take out locations.

Accommodations

Camping, 3 nights

Your Adventure Itinerary

Itinerary map for Grand Teton Kayaking
Day 1

Kayak on Jackson Lake to our spectacular campsite on Grassy Island

Our adventure begins this morning in Jackson, Wyoming. Following introductions, we shuttle to Jackson Lake in Grand Teton National Park. After a demonstration on kayaking techniques and safety procedures, we paddle to a picnic spot on Marie Island, Elk Island or Deadman Point. After lunch we return to our kayaks and paddle to our incredible campsite on Grassy Island, situated just below impressive Mount Moran. We work together as a team to set up camp, then the remainder of the afternoon is free to hike around the island or enjoy time on the lake with one of our paddle boards. We gather in the evening for a delicious hot meal prepared by our guides, then relax around a campfire and listen for magical sounds of nature nearby. Depending on the season we could hear the rush of waterfalls, howling of wolves or the bugling of elk. Lunch and dinner included.

Kayaking: 6.5 - 7 miles

Day 2

Kayak to a trailhead and hike to Leigh Lake and Trapper Lake

This morning take in the spectacular views of glacier-topped granite peaks while paddling to Leigh Lake Trailhead. The countless miles of wilderness shoreline beg to be explored, and before long we beach our kayaks and begin our hike. Along the trail our guides point out trees scarred by bears scratching and rubbing against them—reminding us of the importance of the bear safety practices that our guides employ throughout this adventure. Reaching Leigh Lake, we pause for lunch. The sweeping views of the Teton Range are a perfect backdrop for a picnic. The cold water is refreshing, and swimming is encouraged. After lunch we continue our hike to Trapper Lake, and then make our way back to our kayaks. Reaching our campsite there is time to use the paddle boards or further explore Grassy Island. After dinner, relax by the campfire while sharing stories of the day's adventures. All meals included.

Kayaking: 3 miles; Hiking: up to 4 miles

Day 3

Hike in Moran Canyon and set up camp in Spalding Bay

After a hot breakfast we will work together as a team to pack up our camp. We then paddle or hike to Moran Creek to take a scenic hike in Moran Canyon. The vistas of Jackson Lake and the vast valley beyond are stunning. Following a short paddle, we will then eat lunch near the mouth of Bear Paw Bay. After lunch, we paddle to our campsite at Spalding Bay, which provides wonderful views of the Teton Range including Grand Teton and the Cathedral Group. Once the kayaks are unloaded and our tents set up, we take time to explore the area on foot or by paddle board. Our last night easily flows from watching the sunset to stargazing as we toast new friendships, the beauty of our national parks, and the excitement of tomorrow's final adventure on the Snake River. All meals included.

Kayaking: 7 miles; Hiking: 2 miles

Day 4

A scenic float down the Snake River ends the trip with iconic views of the park

We load up and paddle to our original launching point , then transfer to our rafting location. We hop into six-man rafts and embark on a picturesque float down the Snake River. The knowledge of our guides enhances the experience as they share natural and historical interpretation of the region. Each turn of the river provides a new perspective of the Cathedral Group and calls to mind photos by Ansel Adams that have come alive in brilliant color and breathtaking beauty. The waters are gentle, providing us with ample opportunities to spot wildlife. We pause for a picnic lunch, and then continue our float trip to reach Deadman's Bar. We shuttle back to Jackson, WY where we make our final goodbyes. Breakfast and lunch included.

Kayaking 1.5 miles; Rafting: 10.5-14 miles

Itinerary map for Grand Teton Kayaking

Gear List

The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. Try to bring only what is necessary—this will help you and the field staff.

Already booked this trip? Sign into your online traveler profile for a more detailed list of what you'll need.

REI members can shop for gently used gear online or at most REI stores. Members can also trade in pre-loved used gear online or at any REI store in exchange for REI gift card credit. Check out Re/Supply at REI to learn more.

We provide

  • All Group Cooking Gear
  • All Rafting Gear
  • Bear Canister
  • Bear Spray
  • Dry Bags
  • Group First Aid Kit
  • Kayak and All Paddling Gear
  • Sleeping Pad
  • Tent(s)

What to pack

Contact Us

Feel free to give us a call at 1 (800) 622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores and Direct Sales ( 1 (800) 426-4840 ) will also be happy to help you with gear questions. Or check out REI Expert Advice , which has great information to help you prepare for your trip.

Trip specifics may change over time. Reviews reflect the version of the trip that was active at the time the reviewer took it. Please review the itinerary as described above and call our team for any additional details.