Whether you want to ride the rapids or enjoy a leisurely float, the rivers near Yellowstone National Park will not disappoint! Whatever your desire, there is a place suited just for everyone- kids, grandparents, and the adrenaline-pumping groups. You can find your perfect whitewater rafting experience here!
For starters, you can try out these two – The Yellowstone River near Gardiner, Montana, and the Snake River near Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
From lazy floats to splashing rides, The Yellowstone River is ideal for families. Not too rough, but not too dull. Here you get the most stunning scenery: Yellowstone Lake, the Upper and Lower Falls of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and the Black Canyon of the Yellowstone, a 2,000-foot-deep canyon on the north side of Blacktail Deer Plateau.
Bring the whole family with you and have a great experience splashing around while out in the open, with the sun touching your skin while you marvel at the scenery. The excellent Yellowstone River winds for almost 700 miles, and throughout is the magnificent view of nature! The Yellowstone River flows along one of the park’s borders, making it a unique way to see a different side of the landscape. Then it flows east through Montana and North Dakota, eventually pouring into the Missouri River, offering tons of rafting fun along the way! It’s a great stretch of the river whether you are looking for splashes or something more. It’s not overwhelming, so it’s pretty much suitable for everyone no matter what age you are!
Another great place for whitewater rafting is the Snake River near Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Rafting and floating is the best way to appreciate nature, especially during summer as it helps you beat the heat as well! With the Snake River guaranteeing you more than 1,000 miles of fantastic and popular rafting spots, it runs from Grand Teton National Park through Jackson Hole, the area surrounding Jackson, Wyoming. What better way to take in nature in a peaceful setting unobstructed by roads, buildings, or any other human-made structures than to go rafting or tubing?
The Snake River offers rafting and lazy scenic float trips, just perfect for everyone who simply wants to enjoy the outdoors. Some points along this waterway might require you to pump some adrenaline as some spots need muscle to navigate through the rushing water. Many boat companies offer boat rental for these slightly rough spots for the adrenaline junkies.
If you choose a more laid-back approach to rafting, you can take a scenic float trip. Then, enjoy a quiet trip down the Snake River within Grand Teton National Park and experience the park in a unique way. Bring along a camera or binoculars because it’s possible to see various wildlife, such as bald eagles, moose, elk, and otters. Take pictures and revel in the magnificent scenery of Grand Teton National Park and its surrounding area full of majestic trees.
As these places are suited for the whole family, someone as young as six years old is allowed, but depending on the water behavior, the minimum age requirement might vary.
It’s a great time to get on the rapids and rivers of the West. Let us help you find the perfect spot for your vacation today! Just check out Kabino.com, pick your favorite vacation rental, and pack your bags!
The band TLC had obviously never visited the Pacific Northwest when they crooned, “Don’t go chasing waterfalls.” The area’s stunning and diverse wilderness includes hundreds of jaw-dropping waterfall wonders that are worth chasing, from small but scenic falls to dramatic drops that leave you breathless.
As with most wilderness adventures, the chase is worth the prize. We’ve put together the best six Pacific Northwest waterfalls, giving you a crash course in where to start, how to get there, and what you can expect when you cross the finish line. Read on to take the plunge!
It’s an easy race to Multnomah Falls, but the finish line may be the most rewarding of the group. Its impressive cascade is fed by underground springs and melting snow from Larch Mountain, falling 611 feet to the glittering pool beneath. The viewing area is nestled into a carved-out wall at the fall’s base, giving you an impressive upward view of the sheer power and beauty of this natural wonder.
For an even better vantage point, hike the paved trail to Benson Bridge for a stomach-dropping view of the fall’s final 69-foot drop.
Drury Falls
The 1,270-foot Drury Falls is formed as Fall Creek tumbles into a free-fall over the rim of Tumwater Canyon. Fall Creek is relatively small and runs dry during the summer months, but during snowmelt season it provides a powerful flow over the cliffs that crashes against the steep cliffs below.
The most popular viewpoint is along Highway 2, as 600 feet of the flow can be seen from the road. Park at one of the pullouts about 500 yards from the falls on either side; you’ll need to walk beside the highway to reach the viewpoint, so be aware of passing cars!
Deception Falls
Hidden just off an inconspicuous rest area along Stevens Pass, Deception Falls is often overlooked. But its magical trip through an ancient Douglas Fir forest is worth the stop. Though not as tall as some other waterfalls on our list, this multi-tiered beauty tumbles in short but dramatic drops full of impressive white-capped waves as it makes its way to join the Tye River. There are multiple lookout points that offer great views right past the parking lot, but the best vantage point is at the designated viewing platform at the top of the falls. You can even be serenaded by the waves as you grab a quick bite at the Picnic Area (but be sure to protect your snack from the spray).
If you have time, be sure to take the .8-mile interpretative trail loop nearby to learn about the ecology of the area and enjoy even more lookout points to the falls. You’ll find interpretative signage, cross picturesque bridges, and get to see the fall’s powerful whitewater rapids blend into a cool, crystal pool at the bottom of the trail.
Bridal Veil Falls
In the depths of Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park in the Fraser Valley, this popular waterfall gets its name from the unique way its powerful cascade flows over a wide, smooth rock face in a delicate-looking veil. But don’t mistake its deceptively fragile appearance for weakness; crashing more than 122 meters to the bottom, this waterfall is truly awe-inspiring in its natural power.
An easy 15-minute trail through cedar and fir trees leads to a designated viewpoint at the base of the falls. During the winter, falling sheets of ice and unstable cliff rocks make this a hazardous, slippery endeavor. Perhaps the best time to view Bridal Veil Falls is during the summer when the water flow dries considerably, and the intimidating spray slows to a mesmerizing stream.
Elk Falls
This 25-meter waterfall is so impressive they named the entire park after it. It’s one of the area’s best “plunge waterfalls,” meaning it falls vertically and loses contact with the cliff face behind it as the Campbell River plunges into the rock-walled canyon below. The powerful drop creates an abundant spray and a thunderous roar that can be heard for miles around.
There are multiple trails in the park that lead to great lookout points for Elk Falls, but the newest addition is also the most popular: a thrilling suspension bridge that floats 60 meters above the Canyon floor. Offering a top-to-bottom view of the cascading flow, its multiple viewing and cantilevered platforms give you a breathtaking sight of the waterfall from every angle!
Alexander Falls
Don’t be fooled by their bottom position on our list – Alexander Falls is a frontrunner in the amazing waterfalls category. Three impressive tiers drop over 43 meters in a 12-meter wide flow that’s framed by jagged andesite cliffs and vibrantly green trees. The forest that surrounds it is wide and wild, offering views of curious wildlife (watch out for bears) and plenty of prime hiking territory.
A dedicated viewing platform and picnic area sits just across from the falls and offers a wide, but dry, view of its immense drop. There’s also an obscure trailhead not far from the platform that leads to the top and bottom of the falls, but both hikes are considered strenuous in difficulty and should only be tried by experienced hikers.
A vacation can be more than just for relaxation and exploring the sites. It can be a great way to get in some learning as well! We have Kabinos located in some stunning and unique places – perfect for learning about the environment, about our country, and about a variety of topics in the sciences and beyond. We’ve put together a couple of our favorite spots and resources that are perfect for learning and discovery when you vacation. They’ll help you get familiarized with the area you’re staying in. Check them out!
Visit the Old Faithful Visitor Center
The Old Faithful Visitor Education Center features displays on Yellowstone’s hot springs, mud pots, fumaroles, and of course its world-famous geysers. Scientists take advantage of these extreme environments to conduct research at one of the greatest living laboratories in the United States. Children will love the Young Scientist Exhibit, which contains hands-on exhibits, models, and much more. This is a great place to discover information about the flora and fauna that you can see in the area as well, and has plenty of resources about the park overall,
Grand Teton Park Resources
Take your educational offerings to new heights by exploring the curriculum materials, and even Distance Learning programs available through the Grand Teton National Park! The Park offers unrivaled access to outdoor learning experiences. Located in one of the biggest temperate-zone ecosystems on the globe, you’ll be exposed to wolves, moose, & billion-year-old rocks – highlights of the park!
A Great Pit Stop in Alpine
At the junction of the Greys and Snake Rivers, you can find the Alpine Visitor Center. Guests can visit to learn about the surrounding habitat and the abundance of wildlife that call it home. Located off Highway 89, this makes for a great stop on the way to Yellowstone or Jackson Hole. The Center has many guides, maps, and books that will enhance your experience in the area.
Another great spot in Alpine? The Alpine Nature Center is the best place to learn all about all of the unique animals, plants, and more in the Alpine area. They also have a plethora of information on their website about what’s in bloom, what you’ll see exploring the area, and so much more.
Are you ready to inject some adventure and discovery into your vacation? Then all that’s left is to pack your bags, pick out that perfect Kabino near these amazing natural wonders, and get started!
There are few places on the globe that offer the scenery and outdoor adventures to match the Pacific Northwest. That’s why this unique area is richly populated with National Parks that protect its natural beauty and give visitors the chance to explore its wilderness.
If you’re new to park-going, the sheer number of National Parks in this area can seem overwhelming. Where do you start? What do you see? Where do you stay? Luckily, we’ve made this helpful guide to make planning (and living) your national park adventure as easy as possible. Read on for the top six can’t-miss national parks in the Northwest!
Even novice parkgoers have heard of the wonders that await at Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. This complex and diverse landscape became the world’s first National Park in 1872, inviting nature enthusiasts the world over to explore its unique geothermal landscape. From active geysers to bubbling hot springs to the world’s largest petrified forest, park-goers will find plenty of unique outdoor experiences to create memories and adventures as you explore the wonders of this historic national park.
What to Do: Hiking, photography, sightseeing and camping are the most-popular activities in Yellowstone. During the summer, you can also enjoy fishing, swimming and boating at Yellowstone Lake.
Don’t Miss: Old Faithful. The park’s most-famous attraction is a natural geyser that erupts every 90 minutes, offering visitors an awe-inspiring view at nearly 130 feet in the air. Find a seat near the geyser boardwalk or hike to the overlook point for an aerial view.
Where to Stay: After a long day, Little Fox cabin keeps you in rustic comfort just minutes from Yellowstone National Park.
Located just 10 miles south of Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton may be less known than its famous neighbor – but it’s no less mesmerizing. The park boasts 310,000 acres of stunning mountain landscape, ranging from the major peaks of the Teton Mountain Range to the mountain valley known as Jackson Hole. Its changing elevations give visitors plenty of diverse ecosystems to explore, from glittering alpine lakes that mirror soaring mountain peaks to lush valley floors teeming with flora and wildlife.
The park is known as a historic hotspot, its first explorers canvassing the area almost 11,000 years ago. Some of its rock formations are the earliest you can find in any American National Park, dating back some 2.7 billion years!
What to Do: Hiking, sightseeing, swimming and boating are the most popular recreational activities in Grand Teton National Park.
Don’t Miss: Mormon Row. This iconic historical site gives visitors a glimpse into life on a Mormon homestead in the 19th century. The road is dotted with original homestead barns framed against spectacular mountain backdrops and is popular among professional photographers and travel enthusiasts alike.
Where to Stay: Teton Harmony is a luxurious mountain hideaway just minutes from Grand Teton National Park. Get in the hiking mood with an invigorating session in your private weight room, and retire to your personal hot tub for some relaxing TLC when the day is done!
If you’re new to national park journeys, Crater Lake National Park is the perfect place to get your feet wet. Its namesake lake is the deepest and clearest in the United States. At nearly 2,000 feet, its volcanic depths are fed almost entirely by snowfall, giving it a reflective sapphire hue you have to see to believe. Surrounding the lake are more than 180,000 acres of mountainous peaks and evergreen forests that reflect off the water in postcard perfection. You’ll be Instagram-famous with these pics!
What to Do: Obviously, boating and sightseeing are the most popular activities in the park during the busy summer months. During the winter, visitors can enjoy cross-country snowshoeing and skiing to explore the landscape.
Don’t Miss: The Rim Drive. This scenic driving trail surrounds the lake and offers 30 distinct viewpoints where you can stretch your legs and overlook the park from a birds-eye view.
Mount Ranier, the park’s namesake peak, is an active volcano that soars more than 14,000 feet to the most glaciated peak in the continental United States. Wildflower meadows and ancient forests line the outer rings of the mountain, offering park-goers a dramatic climb full of stunning scenery and thrilling pursuits.
What to Do: Mountain climbing, hiking, winter sports, and scenic drives are the most popular recreational activities in the park.
Don’t Miss: A trip to Paradise. No matter what time you go, the Paradise area of the park is one of the most popular spots for visitors. During the summer you can soak in views of its lush meadows full of blooming wildflowers; during the colder months, it’s a prime area for winter sports and snow-lovers.
Hardcore adventurers will love the snowy glaciers and isolated wilderness that stretch across North Cascades National Park. A picture of rugged terrain, the 700,000-acre park is known for its stunning combination of cascading waterfalls, jagged peaks, alpine lakes and deep valleys. The majority of the park lacks basic infrastructure and is only accessible by foot, making it one of the most strenuous (but rewarding!) national park adventures in the state.
What to Do: Hiking, mountain climbing and boating are the most popular recreational activities in the park.
Don’t Miss: Stehekin Valley. This secluded community nestled at the foot of the North Cascade Mountain Range is only accessible by foot or ferry. Its unspoiled culture, history, and dramatic landscapes make it the perfect base from which to explore North Cascades National Park.
With more than a million acres of diverse landscapes and wildlife, Olympic National Park is the place to go if you’re seeking ecological diversity. The park encompasses miles of wild coastline, lush rainforests, and glacial peaks that provide stunning views and recreational fun for visitors of all ages.
What to Do: Hiking, tidepooling, camping and fishing are the most popular recreational activities at Olympic National Park.
Don’t Miss: Taking a trip into the Hoh Rain Forest. One step into this lush, dense canopy of trees, moss and wildlife, and you’ll feel like you’re hiking through an enchanted fairy tale. Stop by the visitor center first to grab a map and get some advice from the knowledgeable park rangers.
Got your park itinerary ready? Then let’s #PackYourBags and get started planning that adventure!
When you’re looking for your next insta-worthy photo, we’ve got seven can’t-miss spots in the Northwest to add to your vacation itinerary.
A mountainous area in Washington’s Olympic National Park, Hurricane Ridge offers some of the most stunning photographs of the Olympic Mountains. Popular for hiking, skiing and snowboarding, Hurricane Ridge offers year-round access to this gorgeous area.
Lake Crescent is strikingly beautiful, and folks love to photograph its majesty within Olympic National Park. A deep lake (624 feet at maximum depth), Lake Crescent is known for brilliant blue waters and extraordinary clarity. The water is missing nitrogen which inhibits algae growth thereby creating the deep, clear water. Lake Crescent is located in a recreational area where visitors will also find trails in abundance as well as “Devils Punch Bowl,” a swimming and diving area.
Mt. Hood is a potentially active stratovolcano in the Cascade Volcanic Arc, formed by a subduction zone on the Pacific Coast. About 50 minutes east/southeast of Portland and Oregon’s highest mountain, a snow-covered Mt. Hood is an amazing photo as it reflects into Mirror Lake.
The North Cascades are home to Liberty Bell Mountain, about a mile south of Washington Pass on the North Cascades Highway. The peak, made from a mixture of granite and difficult rock, is well-known within the state for high-quality alpine climbing. Don’t leave your phone behind, because you’ll definitely want to hashtag some insta-worthy shots of this natural phenomenon.
The highest point in the San Juan Islands and second-highest mountain on an ocean island (in the contiguous 48 states), Mount Constitution is an Orcas Island treasure. A stone observation tower resembling a medieval watch tower is found at the summit of this breathtaking climb. The tower offers excellent panoramic views and photographs of the neighboring islands as well as the Cascade Mountains.
Northwest Wyoming is home to Grand Teton National Park, with 310,000 acres and some major peaks. Ten miles south of Yellowstone National Park, the protected areas of Grand Teton make up part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The Park itself is named for Grand Teton, the tallest mountain in the Teton Range. Folks from far and wide travel to see the natural beauty here and photographs, while nothing short of spectacular, rarely do it justice. But, it’s fun to try!
Haystack Rock, in Cannon Beach, is a 235-foot sea stack that can be reached by land. The spot is popular with tourists and the rock is adjacent to the beach, accessible by foot at low tide. The Haystack Rock tide pools provide a habitat for starfish, sea anemone, crabs, chitons, limpets and sea slugs. Additionally, the rock is a nice resting spot for sea birds, including terns and puffins. There are so many angles and reflections at Haystack Rock that it is really hard to take a bad picture.
Ready to head out to some of these and try your hand at photography excellence? Book your accommodations first (because it’s always good to know where you’ll lay your head), and plan your trip to get that perfect shot that lights up Instagram! We’ve got the perfect Kabino for you!
For outdoor and nature lovers, a trip to a National Park is what vacation dreams are made of. Many even plan their trips around the park scene including Grand Teton and Yellowstone, where there’s plenty to do no matter if you have a week to explore or only 48 hours to take it in. To make the most of your trip, browse our guide to spring openings to help with your planning.
Yellowstone National Park
With two distinct seasons, it’s important to know dates surrounding the springtime schedules. The early season begins in late April as the snow is cleared from the roads and facilities will follow on a staggered schedule. For 2019, the schedule is as follows (provided conditions are suitable):
- April 19: West Entrance to Madison Junction, Mammoth Hot Springs to Old Faithful, Norris to Canyon Village.
- May 3: East Entrance to Lake Village (Sylvan Pass), Canyon Village to Lake Village.
- May 10: South Entrance to West Thumb, Lake Village to West Thumb, West Thumb to Old Faithful (Craig Pass), Tower Junction to Tower Fall.
- May 24: Tower Fall to Canyon Village (Dunraven Pass)
- May 24: Beartooth Highway
For a color-coded map and to double-check road conditions, visit Yellowstone Park Roads.
Enjoy all that is Yellowstone from wildlife to rafting, horseback riding and amazing waterfalls. And, don’t forget, Kabino has Yellowstone rentals with all the amenities of home, and so easy to book! With rates starting as low as $100 a night, there’s something available for every budget on a Yellowstone vacation.
Grand Teton National Park
Just to the south of Yellowstone and connected by the Rockefeller Parkway is the scenic Grand Teton National Park. The park is 26 miles long and attractive to visitors thanks to a beautiful mountain range and plentiful wildlife, including the Great Gray Owl. Visitors enjoy hiking, boat rides, rafting and huckleberry milkshakes, but you’ll want to know when things are open.
- Highway 26/89/191 (the outer park road) is open year-round.
- Summer is when the park is busiest, given the lovely weather. The only road closures you should encounter might be construction. All services should be open and available as well.
- Springtime is when it can be tricky. Snow melting is the biggest factor for opening in the spring, with many roads closed annually from November 1 through April 30. Most all are officially open as of May 1 to be on the safe side.
Whether you’re looking for a cottage or a lakeside cabin, browse our selection of vacation rentals near Grand Teton National Park and start planning the perfect outdoor adventure this summer. Always remember to book direct for the best price guaranteed.