SNAKE RIVER FEST 2025 EVENT SCHEDULE
Friday June 5th – Snake River Fest Block Party at the base of Snow King
The Snake River Fest Block Party kicks off our annual river celebration by bringing the river vibe directly to the heart of Jackson. This free, family-friendly evening transforms the base of Snow King into a lively commons featuring live music, local food trucks, a beer tent, and interactive booths hosted by conservation partners and river adjacent organizations.
This year’s headliner is local favorite the Deadlocks, Jackson Hole’s beloved Grateful Dead cover band, guaranteed to get the whole community dancing under the Tetons.
When: Friday, June 5, 2026
Time: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
Where: Phil Baux Park, Base of Snow King
Cost: Free and open to all
Grab a drink, explore stewardship and vendor booths, connect with fellow river lovers, and kick off Snake River Fest weekend with the community that makes this river run.
If your organization or business is interested in hosting a booth at the Block Party, Click Here to Register
June 6th – Hoback Hoedown Race
The “Hoback Hoedown” is always a highlight of the Snake River Fest, scheduled for June 6, 2025. First established by the Jackson Hole Kayak Club decades ago, this exhilarating competition takes place on a four-mile stretch of the lower Hoback River. This class II/III race is open to rafters, kayakers, and stand-up paddleboarders. While some race to compete, most participate simply to enjoy some fun on the water with friends. Following the race, festivities continue at the Race HQ with the Hoback Hoedown—an evening of live music, food, and camaraderie near Hoback Junction. Camping is available on-site, allowing attendees to fully immerse themselves in the event’s vibrant atmosphere.
- Day of Race Registration: Opens at 4:30 PM at the Gilcrease Cabin off Highway 191. Racers must check in and complete waivers before participating.
- Pre-Race Safety Briefing: A mandatory safety briefing will be held at 6:00 PM to ensure all participants understand the course, hazards, and race protocols.
- Race Start: The race kicks off at 6:30 PM, covering a four-mile stretch of the lower Hoback River. Participants should be prepared and lined up at the starting point promptly.
- Hoback Hoedown: Post-race festivities begin at 8:00 PM at the Gilcrease Cabin. Enjoy live music, food, and camaraderie with fellow river enthusiasts.
Costs
- Race Fees:
- $25 for single racers (kayakers or SUPs)
- $125 for r6 rafting teams
- Hoedown Admission: $10 for non-racers (free for racers with their entry fee).
Camping Logistics
Camping is available on-site and included in both race and Hoedown fees. Participants and attendees can set up camp near the event area to fully enjoy the evening festivities and rest for the next day.
Shuttle Details
Two shuttles will be available to transport racers and their boats:
- Shuttles will run between the registration area and the race start.
- Post-race, the shuttles will assist in returning racers and boats to the Gilcrease Cabin area.
Click Here to Register!
WY Game and Fish Kid’s Fishing Day
WY Game and Fish’s Kids Fishing Day at R-Park
For those looking for a more relaxed way to engage with our waterways, head on over to R-Park for Wyoming Game & Fish’s Kids Fishing Day for a family-friendly day of fishing, education, and fun. This is a free family event held annually in Jackson, Wyoming, on the first Saturday of June, and is a great way to introduce kids to fishing and conservation. 11am to 2pm at R-Park in Wilson, WY.
June 7th – Greys River BoaterX
Greys River Boater X
Ready to rumble on whitewater?
Join us for the Greys River Boater X, a high-stoke, head-to-head whitewater race on the lower Greys River just outside Alpine, WY. This expert-level kayak competition features a boatercross-style format: fast-paced, full-contact racing through one of the most challenging Class IV river sections in the region.
All proceeds benefit the Jackson Hole Kayak Club, helping to grow the next generation of whitewater athletes.
Schedule Overview
Friday, June 6 – Hoback Cabin
• 4:00–6:00 PM – Early Sign-Up, Bib Pick-Up & Racer Info
Sunday, June 7 – Greys River
• 11:00 AM – Late Sign-Up & Check-In @ Snaggletooth Rapid
• 11:30 AM – Seeding Run: Timed slalom through Snaggletooth (1-minute intervals)
• 12:00 PM – Mandatory Safety Meeting
• 12:30 PM – BoaterX Heats Begin (4 racers per heat, top 2 advance)
• 2:00 PM (est.) – Finals Round
• 2:15 PM – Racer River Cleanup
• ~2:45 PM – Awards @ Melvin Brewing Taproom in Alpine
Race Entry Fees
• $20 – Solo Racers (Kayak or SUP)
• $40 – R2 Inflatable Teams (2-person raft)
Afterparty – All Are Welcome!
Even if you’re not racing, come celebrate at the Melvin Brewing Taproom in Alpine!
Live music, cold brews, great food, and a chance to cheer on our river community. Awards ceremony starts about 30 minutes after the race.
Ways to Participate (Even If You’re Not Racing):
• Volunteer for check-in, shuttle help, or river cleanup
• Cheer from the banks of the Greys River
• Celebrate and connect at the afterparty
• Support youth paddling by donating to the Jackson Hole Kayak Club 💙
Click here for race registration!