JACKSON, Wyo. — Jackson was hit by a torrent of rain this weekend, leading to a deluge of tree-wreckage in its wake. As many people flock to the river for the July Fourth holiday weekend, perhaps most notable of the wreckage is a large pine tree now lodged below a major rapid in the Snake River Canyon.

The downed pine floated past awe-struck observers at the popular Lunch Counter rapid in the Snake River Canyon on Saturday.

Surfers, kayakers and onlookers watch as a pine tree floats through Lunch Counter rapid. Video: Katharine Bransford

That tree eventually became stuck a few hundred yards downstream, above Ropes rapid. A large tree lodged in the river is a very dangerous hazard and should be taken seriously. This type of obstacle is called a strainer, which can have dire consequences. Last week a family was caught in a strainer on the Teton River in Idaho, resulting in the drowning of a dog.

“With a busy weekend ahead, recreationalists are encouraged to use extreme caution when paddling/rowing the Canyon. A swim in Lunch Counter could have nasty consequences,” the Snake River Fund shared in an Instagram post. “If you’re not an expert at navigating the river, it’s highly encouraged you consider going on a professional guided trip this weekend.”

Hannah is a Buckrail Staff Reporter and freelance web developer and designer who has called Jackson home since 2015. When she’s not outside, you can probably find her eating a good meal, playing cribbage, or at one of the local yoga studios. She’s interested in what makes this community tick, both from the individual and collective perspective.