Current Flows of the Teton River

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What is the Teton River?

On June 5, 1976, the small town of Rexburg, Idaho, was devastated when the poorly constructed Teton Dam collapsed. Decades later, the Teton River—once part of this disaster—has become one of the West’s most pristine and productive fly fishing destinations. WorldCast Anglers is proud to be one of the few licensed outfitters permitted to guide on this remarkable stretch of water.

The Teton River flows for 81.5 miles as a tributary of the Henrys Fork of the Snake River, draining the Teton Valley along the Idaho-Wyoming border. Fed by numerous springs and rainfall from the Tetons, the river maintains a consistent temperature, creating optimal conditions for prolific insect hatches and large, healthy fish.

The Upper Teton, a 25-mile section accessible only to a few outfitters, is best fished from June through October. It features long, winding stretches of cool, clear water bordered by willow, sage, and aspen. This upper reach resembles a spring creek fishery, offering technical but rewarding fishing. Anglers will encounter overlapping hatches of mayflies, caddis, stoneflies, baetis, tricos, and drakes throughout the season, with opportunities for dry fly fishing and walk-and-wade stalking.

Hatch highlights include:

• Mid-June: Pale Morning Duns and Caddis begin, continuing through the season

• July–Fall: Baetis, Mahogany Duns, and Rusty Spinners

• Late July–September: Grasshoppers offer exciting terrestrial action

• September: Large Grey Drakes make for an unforgettable experience

• Early June (below Harrop Bridge): Massive stoneflies up to 3 inches, tapering in size later in the season

Anglers can expect to catch Rainbow, Cutthroat, Cutthroat-Rainbow hybrids (Cutt-bows), Brook Trout, and Whitefish. The cutthroat population is especially strong, with the river supporting one of the healthiest native cutthroat fisheries in the West.

For those fishing the Upper Teton, early morning or late evening outings yield the best results. Guides will coordinate departure times to optimize your chances of hooking trophy-sized trout. To add to the excitement, the lodge offers a special contest: the angler who lands the largest fish in this section wins a free three-day trip.

Accessible and scenic, the Teton River offers outstanding recreation for anglers of all skill levels. Whether floating the Upper Teton or exploring the canyon’s more rugged waters, every trip promises spectacular fishing and unforgettable views of the Tetons.

Upper Teton River

The Upper Teton and the Narrows differ in many ways, but they share the same native fish species and their preferred food. Cutthroat trout dominate the river from top to bottom, thriving on dry flies such as PMDs, Stoneflies, Drakes, Hoppers, and Caddis, which are found throughout the Teton River.

The Teton River’s breathtaking scenery, with the majestic Teton Mountains framing the valley’s eastern horizon, makes it one of North America’s most scenic trout streams. Its trout, including trophy-sized Yellowstone Cutthroat and rainbow trout, live up to this picturesque setting. The upper basin’s meandering meadow stream provides prime habitat for these fish.

Situated between the South Fork and Henry’s Fork, the Teton is often overlooked by anglers heading to more popular fisheries, yet on good days it surpasses its neighboring rivers with exceptional dry fly fishing. The Upper Teton River, extending from Fox Creek East and West in Victor to Harrops Bridge on Highway 33 in Tetonia, is the most frequented section due to its shallow depth, calm waters, and easy access.

Along the Upper Teton, the scenery varies from peaceful meadows and wooded wetlands—prime moose habitat—to cattle pastures. As you float, the Tetons rise on the right side, offering stunning photo opportunities.

Note that the float times provided are estimates based on moderate flow rates and assume little or no paddling, which many raft and tube users follow. Paddling can significantly reduce the time between access points.

Fox Creek East

There are two access points to the Teton River along the Fox Creek Tributary in Victor: Fox Creek East and Fox Creek West. Fox Creek East is ideal for small watercraft like kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards. A short walk from the parking lot to the access point requires carrying your watercraft. The 3.1-mile float to South Bates takes about 2 hours and features the widest, slowest section of the river. Later in the summer, water levels may drop, making floating more difficult.

Fox Creek West

Fox Creek West, located in Victor along the river’s western arm, has no ramps and is best suited for small watercraft like kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards. The 3.1-mile float to South Bates takes about 2 hours. This section is the widest and slowest part of the river, and in late summer, the water can become shallow, making floating difficult.

South Bates

The South Bates Bridge, near Driggs, is the first major public access point with facilities. Parking is limited, so arriving early on summer mornings is recommended. It features a concrete ramp and is accessible to all watercraft, though the river can be shallow here, making it less suitable for motorized boats. The 3.5-mile float to Bates Bridge takes about 2 hours.

Bates Bridge

Bates Bridge is the most popular put-in on the Teton River due to its proximity to Driggs, large parking lot, and easy access. It serves as the launch point for many commercial groups and can get crowded in summer, especially on weekends, since the popular float trip runs from Bates Bridge to Rainey. This 4.3-mile stretch takes about 2.5 hours and is often frequented by moose during the drier summer months—so keep an eye out!

Rainey

Also known as “Big Eddie,” the Rainey access point and campground is a popular spot for launching and landing watercraft in the summer. This stretch of the river offers stunning views of the Tetons and frequent sightings of wildlife like moose. You might enjoy bringing a picnic or relaxing by the grassy banks near the campground, just downstream from the ramp. The float to Horseshoe Bridge covers 2.3 miles and takes about 1.5 hours.

The best time to see moose in the river is July and August, particularly during a dry stretch with no rain and hot temperatures.

Horseshoe Bridge

A local secret, this small access point lacks a boat ramp but is ideal for launching small watercraft. Road conditions can be rough during shoulder seasons, often requiring a 4×4 due to large ruts. Best used in summer, the 1.4-mile float to Cache Bridge takes about 1 hour.

Packsaddle/Cache Bridge

Cache Bridge, also known as “Packsaddle,” is the last major river access point along the most popular stretch. Downstream, the river flows through ranch land and past cliffs, with fewer floaters, creating a peaceful and remote atmosphere. The 6.4-mile float to Harrops Bridge takes about 6 hours, ideal for a full day trip. Note: during high water flow—after storms or early in the season—it may be difficult to pass under Cache Bridge with a raft or drift boat. Check water levels before entering.

Harrops Bridge

If you’ve reached Harrops Bridge, it’s time to end your float trip. This bridge marks the end of the Upper Teton River. Beyond it, the river enters a canyon with dangerous class V whitewater, suitable only for very experienced paddlers. This is your last chance to take out before the technical canyon section.

Teton River Canyon

The Teton River flows through the valley and enters a deep, rugged canyon known as the Narrows of the Teton. This area is dramatically different from the river near the lodge, characterized by rapids, rattlesnakes, and rough terrain. The Narrows offers adventure and seclusion, making it ideal for experienced anglers seeking a unique and special place.

Downstream of Harrops Bridge, the Teton River Canyon takes on dangerous characteristics. Between Harrops Bridge and the Felt Dam, the river features highly technical whitewater, including Class IV and V rapids, suitable only for expert boaters due to its deadly nature. Between Felt Dam and Spring Hollow, the river is largely impassable, and watercraft use is not recommended regardless of skill level. From Spring Hollow to the Old Teton Dam Site, the river contains Class II to Class IV whitewater, making it unsuitable for drift boats. If you plan to navigate this section, local guide shops can provide safe transport options.