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If you’re fortunate enough to find yourself in Idaho's Teton Valley, consider yourself lucky. This quiet, picturesque valley is relatively unknown compared to its super-famous sister, Jackson, Wyoming. On the western side of the Tetons, you’ll find many of the same activities at lower prices with far fewer crowds. One favorite local activity is floating the Teton River.
The Teton River runs south to north through the valley, starting near the town of Victor. Compared to its nearby cousin, the Snake River in Wyoming, this stretch of the Teton River is a slow, placid body of water that is ideal for floating, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), and kayaking.
The river is largely shallow, particularly in late summer, but has some deeper holes and cut banks. Powered by snowpack, the water is frigid in the early season (May/June) and cold throughout summer. While the water can be refreshing on a hot day, it can quickly contribute to hypothermia if you fall in. As a result, wearing a life jacket is of extra importance. Fortunately, loaner life jackets are available at many of the recreational access points on the river. It’s free and easy to borrow a life jacket and then hang it up when you leave the river.
There are six major recreational water access points along the Teton River. Parking at the access points is free until 2024, when a nominal parking fee will be charged.
Fox Creek Fish and Game Access (no boat ramp)
South Bates Bridge
Bates Bridge
Rainey/Big Eddy Fish and Game Access and Public Camping
Cache Bridge/Packsaddle
Harrops Bridge/Hwy 33
Float times from one access point to another can vary widely. Depending on the speed of the water each day, those paddling continuously will likely reach the next access point at or under the low end of the referenced paddle time. Those who are floating and do not plan to paddle tend towards the higher end of the range.
There are a few key precautions to take when floating the Teton River:
Teton County recently passed an ordnance designed to protect the river from overuse. The following restrictions apply:
Don’t have your own paddleboard or kayak? No problem – there are plenty of local vendors in Driggs, Idaho who are happy to help.
The sun is very strong in the valley, so opt for gear with built-in sun protection. My top picks for a day on the Teton River include:
Summer is short in the Teton Valley, so get out there and enjoy it while you can! Please keep the river clean and beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
Danielle Cemprola is a freelance writer, marathoner x 52 and world traveler. Danielle and her husband, AJ, love to hike, travel, and eat their way across the planet. She's a self-described carry-on enthusiast who loves challenging herself to pack for any trip, no matter the length or destination, in a carry-on bag. When Danielle's not flying the friendly skies, you're likely to find her working at her day job as an environmental scientist - hey, someone needs to pay for all those plane tickets!