Best Waterways in Wyoming

Trying to find the best waterways in Wyoming? Bivy has great hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, skiing, riding and more, with hand-curated trail maps, as well as detailed driving directions.

1

Wyoming, Lincoln County

03 :53 hrs
7.9 mi
32.522217 ft
III

The most exciting whitewater on the Snake River is found along this section of known as Alpine Canyon. Paddlers travel through a scenic canyon setting while navigating some substantial and well-known rapids that include Cottonwood, Big Kahuna, Lunch Counter and more. The route is very popular resulting in large crowds during peak season. There are many commercial outfitters that run trips along the route so the boat ramps can become very congested. Permits are only required for large groups and commercial companies.

2

Wyoming, Platte County

00 :29 hrs
1.1 mi
3.4208984 ft
I

Glendo Reservoir is one of the most popular lakes in Southern Wyoming. This is a hand launch area that is calm and beautiful located on the southwestern side. Camping is also allowed.

3

Wyoming, Jackson Hole

00 :57 hrs
2.7 mi
57.38257 ft
III

The run down the lower Gros Ventre River is a short but scenic stretch for advanced paddlers looking for a challenge. This steep run starts from the bridge located at the outlet of Lower Slide Lake and continues through boulder gardens with twists and turns creating continuous class III to class IV rapids. The difficulty of the rapids varies due to current water flow so scouting the river before is advised. The take-out is located just before the boundary for Teton National Park and it is important to make the take-out spot as boating within park boundaries is not allowed.

4

Wyoming, Jackson Hole

02 :29 hrs
5.5 mi
4.624756 ft
I

Located in Grand Teton National Park, this small lake offers dramatic scenery including some close-up views of the Tetons. The lake is also known for great fishing and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also enjoy the lodge, a visitor center, campgrounds, and hiking trails. The winds can pick up on the lake causing waves to develop so paddlers should pay close attention to the weather while on the lake.

5

Wyoming, Lincoln County

00 :57 hrs
2.6 mi
43.705933 ft
IV

The Greys River runs north through a beautiful forested valley situated between the Wyoming Range on the east and Salt River Range on the west. This steep section of river starting at Squaw Creek Campground is for advanced paddlers with many class III to class IV rapids that run through stretches of boulders and narrow canyon sections of the river. Scouting this section of the river beforehand is strongly advised. The river calms significantly at the take-out at Bridge Campground.

6

Wyoming, Sweetwater County

11 :07 hrs
27.8 mi
2.0421143 ft
SK I

Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is located in southwest Wyoming and northeast Utah and offers abundant opportunity for water recreation. There are four boat ramps located in Wyoming allowing paddlers access to many different parts of the lake. The lake is made up of many channels and canyons for visitors to explore. The Firehole Canyon launch is located on the northeast side of the lake and offers a boat launch, restrooms, picnic sites, and campgrounds. Flaming Gorge is popular for many water sports and there are larger boats on the lake including houseboats so it is important to pay attention to other boaters while on the lake. Open water crossings may be necessary depending on the route being traveled.

7

Wyoming, Hot Springs County

03 :09 hrs
7.5 mi
26.687012 ft
I

Put in just above Thermopolis and take out in Thermopolis.

8

Wyoming, Jackson Hole

04 :02 hrs
9 mi
1.083252 ft
I

This glacial lake is another great opportunity for visitors of Grand Teton National Park to take in the dramatic scenery the park has to offer. Leigh Lake displays great views of the Teton range and offers a backcountry feel as the lake can only be accessed by paddlers and hikers. Paddlers will use the boat launch at String Lake and travel north to the end where the water narrows out and a short portage is required. The portage trail is located on the east side and follows a wide trail before arriving at log steps that lead down to Leigh Lake. For paddlers looking for a multi-day trip there are designated camp sites available for use and great hiking trails around the lake.

9

Wyoming, Jackson Hole

05 :25 hrs
6 mi
3.699463 ft
I

Jackson Lake is a scenic destination that provides visitors with amazing views of the Teton Range. This trail leads paddlers north along the shores of the lake up to Sargents Bay. Paddlers will want to stay close to the shoreline as this section of lake is more exposed to wind and rough waters. There are bays and inlets along the route providing paddlers with calmer waters for exploration. Jackson Lake also provides great wildlife viewing and fishing opportunities.

10

Wyoming, Jackson Hole

01 :23 hrs
3.1 mi
0.22973633 ft
I

This small lake located between Jenny Lake and Leigh Lake is positioned right below the Tetons and offers exceptional views. The lakes clear calm waters are perfect for paddlers of all levels. The water is also shallow and warmer than the surrounding lakes making it a great spot for swimming. The lake is surrounded by thick forests providing lots of opportunity for birdwatching and viewing wildlife.

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