Whitewater rafting is a great way to spend the day when you’re on a vacation in Jackson Hole, but that doesn’t mean it’s all fun and games! Before you go out on the river, your guide will explain to you some important rules, tips, and guidelines to ensure that your Snake River whitewater rafting trip is as safe as possible. Here are some important do’s and don’ts for whitewater rafting.

Do Listen to Your Guide

As mentioned above, your guide will give you instructions before your whitewater rafting trip starts, but once you’re on the river, they’ll continue to give you directions, telling you when to paddle and how to do it. Listen to these commands and do exactly as they tell you. If you don’t, you might end up falling into the water! 

If it’s your first time whitewater rafting, don’t hesitate to ask your guide for clarification or additional help before you climb aboard the raft. It’s better to ask and know than to spend your trip feeling uncertain about what you’re doing.

Don’t Panic If You Fall in the Water

No one wants to fall into the water when they’re whitewater rafting, but it happens. Your guide will give you instructions before you get out on the water about how to float to safety when this occurs. It’s important that you not panic, because this can get you into trouble. Instead, focus on the commands your guide is giving you. 

Do Wear a Life Jacket and Helmet

Your life jacket and helmet will keep you safe if you do fall in the water, so they’re important! Of course, we won’t let you on any of our rafts if you refuse to wear a life jack or helmet, but it’s also critical to understand that this safety gear doesn’t work if you don’t wear it properly. Don’t get on the raft and unfasten the buckles or loosen the straps. This can impact the effectiveness of your safety equipment, which can be dangerous.

Don’t Let Go of the T-Grip

Your guide will show you exactly where the T-grip is during your orientation, but for now, just know that it’s the T-shaped part at the top of the paddle. Never, ever let go of the T-grip because doing so can cause injury.

Do Wear the Right Clothes

If it’s cold, don’t wear cotton—it will get wet and you’ll be freezing, making it hard to enjoy your time on the river. Rent a wetsuit or wear neoprene, polypropylene, or wool to stay warm and dry. You should also wear proper shoes for rafting. Water shoes are best, but sneakers that you don’t mind getting wet or sandals that strap onto your ankle will work too. Don’t wear flip flops—and do wear some shoes! Bare feet are not recommended.

Do Tell Your Guide About Any Medical Conditions You Have

You never know what might happen when you’re on a whitewater rafting trip. To ensure your safety, please let your guide know if you have serious allergies, recent surgeries, cardiovascular issues, or other health conditions. If needed, we can provide you with a dry bag to keep insulin, allergy medication, or anything else you might need during your rafting excursion.

Book Your Snake River Whitewater Rafting Trip Today

If you’re interested in an unforgettable trip on the Snake River, call us today at 800-700-RAFT or book your trip online now.