This was the first time whitewater rafting for the three of us in our group (my wife, father-in-law, and myself). We arrived 30 minutes early, as instructed, and were immediately checked-in and offered wetsuits by the Mad River staff. Then we boarded the shuttle bus to our launch location.
En route, our bus driver Darla pointed out some local wildlife. We saw some swans, a bald eagle and nest, some beaver dams, and multiple osprey nests. When we arrived at our launch point, river guide Ryan gave us a brief introduction and briefing and we were then fitted for floatation devices, splash gear, and given paddles.
Then we launched into the beautiful Snake River. Our river guide, Nate, was awesome. He gave us a full safety briefing, got us paddling, and then steered us toward our first set of rapids. The river was high, so the tour was really moving, and we navigated multiple sets of rapids, getting soaked and having an awesome time in the process.
The scenery was amazing, the ride fun and exciting, and most importantly, I felt completely confident in our safety the entire trip.
Mad River has us hooked on whitewater, and we will be rebooking with them when we return to Jackson in the fall.
A+++++