GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK — Itching to get on a stand-up paddleboard in the national park? There are a few things to know before setting sail.

Summer is a great time to find a new perspective from Grand Teton National Park’s (GTNP) crystal clear glacial lakes. But before putting a paddleboard in GTNP waters, make sure to have the necessary permits, know the rules and carry the right gear.

Permits

According to GTNP, all watercraft — motorized and non-motorized, including paddleboards — must have a Grand Teton boat permit. The permit must be purchased each year before the watercraft gets in the water. A permit for a paddleboard costs $25, and can be purchased online at recreation.gov or in person at the visitor centers in Moose and Colter Bay during summer operations. All paddleboards, solid and inflatable, are exempt from the Wyoming Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) decal requirements.

Rules

Though paddleboards are not required to have AIS decals, every watercraft must stop at a park AIS inspection station on the way into the park. Inspection stations, open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., are located just before the GTNP entrance in Moose and just after the GTNP entrance in Moran. According to the park, invasive species, like zebra and quagga mussels, pose a serious ecological threat to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, and inspections help prevent such organisms from entering park waters. Carry the GTNP boat permit and AIS inspection form while on the paddleboard, and be ready to show a ranger if asked.

Gear

All vessels in GTNP must have a U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (PFD) of the appropriate size for each person on board. PFDs must be in good working condition, and should be worn while on the water. All those under 13 must wear a PFD on the water. Proper footwear, layers, water, bear spray and a dry bag are recommended.

Etiquette

Avoid playing loud music while on the water. Excessive noise disrupts the nature experience for other boaters and disturbs wildlife. Make sure to steer clear of other boaters and anglers, including fishing lines. Do not leave food, drinks or other attractants unattended onshore.

Monica is a Staff Reporter who studied journalism at Syracuse University and has been in the valley since 2015. She loves writing about the local food and bev scene, especially craft beer. When she’s not on the clock, you can find her paddle boarding, sewing, or whipping up a new recipe at home.