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. River rafting is suitable for beginners. You should be comfortable camping in the back country without access to bathrooms or running water.
Kayak on Jackson Lake to our spectacular campsite on Grassy Island
Our adventure begins at 9am 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. 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 the bugle of nearby elk. Lunch and dinner included.
Kayaking: 6.5 miles
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
Hike in Moran Canyon and set up camp in Spalding Bay
After a hot breakfast we paddle to Moran Creek to take a scenic hike in Moran Canyon. The vistas of Jackson Lake and the vast valley beyond are stunning. Returning to Grassy Island, we eat lunch and work together as a team to pack up our camp. 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
A scenic float down the Snake River ends the trip with iconic views of the park
We load up and paddle to a boat launch, 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
