I think there are two ways to best experience Grand Teton National Park. The first is to climb one of the peaks. A few have non-technical routes, and many have some of the nations classic technical routes. All the peaks, however, require excellent physical condition and a high level of skill and experience.

The other way to best see the park, in my opinion, is to float a section of the Snake. This gets you away from the crowds and tourist areas, and offers incredible scenery and a very high likelihood of seeing wildlife.

This section of river offers a good introduction to the area. Though heavily signed as being an intermediate and difficult run, this is perhaps oversold in mid-to-late summer and fall when flows are lower and the river more lazy and forgiving.

This is a float I would not recommend to beginners over about 4000 cfs. Below 4000 cfs, competent beginners with a eye for navigation will have no difficulties. The challenge is finding and staying in the main channel to avoid the many dead end side braids. Even this is not particularly difficult below 4000 cfs when it is easy to turn a boat. Above 4000 cfs, the river becomes more pushy and difficult to make quick maneuvers.

A side note, this section is generally floated by drift boats and inflatables. It is suitable for kayaks, though not very exciting. Canoeists with advanced skills would also be well suited below 4000 cfs. There are a few small riffles, the largest occurring within a few hundred feet of the takeout.

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