JACKSON, Wyo. — The Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF) has announced it will be implementing a fee program and large group reservation system for the Snake River Canyon from May 1 through Nov. 1.
River users will have the option to purchase a day pass at electronic pay station kiosks installed at boat ramps along the river, or they can purchase a season pass on Recreation.gov. Timed launch reservations for large non-commercial groups of 16 to 30 people will also move to the same website.
The new fee structure and reservation system will be implemented annually as follows:
- Day Pass: $5 per vehicle
- Recreationists pay fee at boat ramp using electronic pay station kiosk with a credit or debit card
- Large Non-Commercial Group Use Day Pass (Groups of 16 to 30 People): $3 per person, ages 16+
- Groups pay fee online group reservation site
- Outfitter Day Pass: $3 per person, ages 16+
- Outfitters collect fees and pay at end of season
- Season Pass: $40 per vehicle, $60 if purchasing two at once
- Seasonal passes can be purchased online and turned in for a hangtag at West Table kiosk
America the Beautiful passes do not cover these special recreation permit fees; be sure to pay the site pass fee of $3/person. Permit fee receipts must be displayed inside the vehicle on the dash at all times while in the special recreation area.
Disabled veterans, Gold Star families and Tribal members with documentation will not be required to pay fees.
Also new this year is that large Snake River Non-Commercial Group Use Launch Timed Reservations for May 1 through Oct. 1 will be available on Recreation.gov beginning April 2 at 8 a.m. The new system will provide recreationists with the ability to plan ahead and secure a timed reservation for groups of 16 to 30 people for the Snake River section between South Park Bridge and Sheep Gulch, the BTNF writes. Reservations will be required for large group launches and will be available in 30-minute intervals from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Groups will still be required to check in at the West Table Kiosk before launching on their trip. BTNF writes that the new reservation system is aimed at improving the visitor experience and ensuring boat ramp access is available for large groups.
The Snake River fee program and reservation system will also help provide financial resources necessary for maintaining facilities and managing recreational use of the Wild and Scenic Snake River Canyon in ways that BTNF confirms will enhance user experiences, provide for visitor safety and protect the wild and scenic river values.
Fees were approved by the Forest Service Regional Office on Aug. 30, 2024. The BTNF held two public comment periods to gain public feedback on the proposal.
Visit the Snake River Non-Commercial Group Use Launch Timed Reservation System Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to learn more.
