The shimmering soul of the Tetons. Thanks to an O.A.R.S. exclusive, first-time paddlers and families can adventure and overnight on Jackson Lake, in the core of Grand Teton National Park. With an idyllic island camp, O.A.R.S. is the only outfitter authorized to spend nights on the lake. Paddle a sea kayak beneath a cowboy country moon and the same starry skies that lured the gaze of ancient tribes and settlers. During the day, Jackson Lake's calm waters are perfect for paddlers to learn their first kayak stroke. Hikes, waterfalls, fishing and ultra-photographic landscapes surround you. And just beyond the Tetons' peaks, less than an hour away, lie the geo-thermal wonders and wildlife of Yellowstone.
Trip Details
Duration
1 or 2 Days/Nights
Location
Jackson Lake
Season
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays: Early June through Mid-September
Trip Type
Lake Kayaking
Nearest City
Jackson, WY
Physical Condition Required
Fair
Destination(s)
Wyoming, United States
Minimum Age Limit
4 Years
Paddling Skill Level Required
Beginner
Fully Guided
Yes
Kayaks Supplied
Yes
Kayak Brands
Northwest
Support Vehicles
Motorized Snout Rig
Accommodations
Camping
Showers Available
No
Transportation to Start Site
No
Dining
The meals served are hearty and sumptuous, complete with fresh fruits and vegetables. The menu spares no expense in order to bring you fine foods in a wilderness atmosphere. Wake up to pancakes, omelets or eggs cooked to order, complemented by bacon or sausage, toast, juice and plenty of coffee or tea. Satiate your appetite at lunch with a delicious spread of cold cuts and cheese on assorted breads, with hummus and veggies in soft pitas, or tasty taco salad in roll-your-own burritos. Don’t forget a cookie or six for dessert, or a fruit salad and a cool drink. At the dinner table, guides’ cooking skills truly shine. Snack on hors d'oeuvres while you wait for fresh green salads, vegetables, and the main course: steak, grilled salmon or perhaps Dutch oven lasagna. Vegetarian options are available if you tell O.A.R.S. of your preference ahead of time. If you can find room, there will always be something for dessert - possibly even a freshly baked cake or cobbler.
Additional Activities
Hiking, Swimming, Fishing
Rates
$259.00 - $412.00per personCurrency Converter (Rates shown are in US Dollars. Rates and terms are subject to change.)
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Trip Itinerary
Days 1-2: On the morning of your trip, gather at the Signal Mountain Lodge Public Boat Ramp, located inside Grand Teton National Park. Here you will meet your guides and the others on your trip — all sharing in excited expectation of what’s to come.
After your guide presents a thorough demonstration on kayaking techniques, safety procedures and “leave no trace” wilderness ethics, you'll be on your way. With your personal gear safely stowed in a motorized snout rig, board sleek one- or two-person touring kayaks en route to base camp. The motorized craft will act as a support boat, supplying lunch and a lift if you get tired. As you move across the lake, stop periodically to relax, have a bite to eat and revel beneath the towering peaks of the Teton Range. It is seven miles to the exclusive campsite on Grassy Island, a perfect jumping off point for the adventures ahead.
Spend the afternoon however you choose: finish your novel, paint a sunset or pull in a cutthroat trout worthy of tall tales. A guide will lead short paddles around the island and to the Moran Canyon area on shore. Here, hike up a rushing creek to spectacular waterfalls and overlooks of the lake, all in the shadow of majestic Mt. Moran.
You’ll probably find that paddling can inspire quite an appetite — and dinnertime comes none too soon. Your tastes may be less discriminating when eating in a wilderness setting, but O.A.R.S.' are not. The menus served will astound in their diversity, quality and presentation — foods of fine restaurants without the walls.
Evenings on Grassy Island are as magical as the days, and after dinner you might enjoy a moonlight paddle, or perhaps a bright and cheery campfire, where you’ll gather for conversation stories, and laughter. Fall asleep under the stars of the wide Wyoming sky, content in the knowledge that it’s rest well earned.
O.A.R.S. is sure you’ll agree that the more time you spend on Jackson Lake, the more comprehensive your experience will be. If you’re on the two-day, or especially the four-day trip, you’ll have plenty of time to sample all the activities that this tranquil yet rich wilderness area has to offer. Countless quiet inlets and miles of shoreline beg to be explored; perhaps you’ll encounter a moose drinking from the shallows, an eagle perched in a nearby aspen, or a family of deer quietly foraging in the woods as you glide past the shore in silent kayaks. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore, and the beautiful lake constantly beckons you to swim or fish in its sapphire waters.
Each morning begins with a scrumptious early breakfast, then sees you off on the day’s adventures. On the last day of the trip, after another hearty morning meal, load up early for a return trip to Signal Mountain Lodge. Return to vehicles at approximately 9:30am (please note: the one-day trip actually ends the morning of Day 2, the two-day trip ends the morning of Day 3, and the four-day trip ends the morning of Day 5).
COMPLIMENTARY VISITOR GUIDES
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